Port VILA, 21^st November, 2025 – The Vanuatu Government is disappointed by the blatant misrepresentation of our nation's decision to amend its national security legislation.

Contrary to reports carried in the Australian media, Vanuatu has not "expelled" any foreign advisers.

Rather, we have introduced measures to ensure that foreign advisers working on national security are stationed at neutral venues or their respective embassies, maintaining a clear line of demarcation and respect for Vanuatu's sovereignty, says Prime Minister Jotham Napat, in response to reports carried by both the ABC and the Epoch Times this week.

The decision by Parliament to amend the National Security Act is a reaffirmation of Vanuatu's commitment to its longstanding non-aligned status and its determination to make decisions in the best interest of its people. The Government will not be swayed by external pressures or influenced by any foreign power. As a sovereign State Vanuatu is committed to making decisions that benefit our people, not beholden to any external agenda.

Vanuatu has a proud history of maintaining good relations with all its partners, including US, China, Australia, France, Japan and New Zealand. “We will continue to work with all countries to achieve our development goals, but we will do so on our own terms.

“We urge all partners to respect Vanuatu's sovereignty and decisions. We value our partnerships and are committed to working together to achieve mutual goals. However, we will not accept any patronizing overtones. Vanuatu is a sovereign nation, and we will assert our right to make decisions that are in the best interest of our people.

“We call on all citizens to remain vigilant and united in defence of our sovereignty. Together, we can build a brighter future for Vanuatu, free from external interference and influence,” says the Prime Minister.

Port VILA, 17^th November, 2025 – Recent amendments to the National Security Act of 2025 may have sparked some confusion among the public and media, prompting the Office of the Prime Minister to issue this statement to clarify the rationale of the amendments.

Firstly, the amendments aim to strengthen Vanuatu's sovereignty and neutrality amidst growing geopolitical interest in the Pacific.

The changes now require foreign advisers working in the national security space to be stationed at neutral venues or their respective embassies and obtain ministerial authorization before accessing government premises to undertake any security assignments.

Prime Minister Jotham Napat emphasized that this move is necessary to protect Vanuatu's sovereignty and ensure independent decision-making, avoiding entanglement in partner countries' geopolitical rivalries.

"We value all our partners. We know that amidst the current climate of heightened interest in the region, more and more Vanuatu continues to attract attention. Parliament has acted simply to protect our own shores," Prime Minister Napat said.

"We are a peaceful country and we wish to maintain that status as far as possible because our existence depends on it,” he said.

The amendments do not concern advisers working in other government offices, but they ensure bilateral and multilateral security arrangements are thoroughly vetted and approved by the Government.

Additionally, the amendments provide guidance on scientific research, outlining proper processes for approval.

The national parliament also passed amendments ensuring critical infrastructure isn't used for military purposes, countering narratives that public infrastructures are being built for such purposes.

Critical infrastructure includes essential systems, assets, and networks vital for Vanuatu's public safety, security, and health, such as communications, energy, water and sanitation, transport, banking and finance, and health services.

These amendments reflect Vanuatu's commitment to maintaining its non-aligned status and protect its sovereignty in the face of growing regional interest.

Port VILA, 14^th November, 2025 – The Office of the Prime Minister is shocked and disappointed by the recent by-law passed by the Shefa Provincial Council banning women from engaging in food preparation during their menstrual periods. This draconian and unenforceable regulation is a stark reminder of the need for greater understanding and respect for women's rights and dignity.

"We call on the Shefa Provincial Council to work smarter and find better avenues to generate revenue for the province, rather than resorting to such ludicrous and discriminatory regulations," said Prime Minister Jotham Napat.

"It's unfortunate that the Shefa Council has chosen to pursue such a misguided and unenforceable law, which will only serve to embarrass the province and the country as a whole."

The Prime Minister has asked that the law be revoked immediately to spare the province further blushes for coming up with such a ridiculous regulation. "It's time for the Shefa Council to focus on initiatives that will truly benefit the people of Shefa, rather than perpetuating outdated stereotypes," the Prime Minister added.

The head of government urges the Shefa Provincial Council to reconsider the by-law and instead work towards promoting the economic empowerment and dignity of women in Shefa Province. We stand in solidarity with the women of Shefa and call on all stakeholders to join us in rejecting this discriminatory regulation.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Johnny Koanapo has presented a powerful statement on the 2026 National Budget on Thursday 6^th of November, outlining a comprehensive plan to drive economic growth, improve public services, and enhance the well-being of all Ni-Vanuatu.

At its core the budget aims to lay the foundation for a prosperous and inclusive future, as the country approaches its 50th independence anniversary in less than five years from today.

Key Highlights

The 2026 Budget focuses on several key areas, including:

·         Infrastructure Development: Finishing critical road packages and municipal works, progressing the Efate ring road and Santo East Coast Road, and upgrading airports and ports.

·         Education: Honouring teachers' entitlements, supporting the National University of Vanuatu, and investing in education infrastructure.

·         Health: Transforming the health sector through infrastructure upgrades, equipment, and recruitment of doctors and specialists.

·         Agriculture: Supporting farmers, improving livestock and animal health, and promoting value-added production and exports.

·         Climate Change and Disaster Resilience: Strengthening Vanuatu's climate stance, implementing the National Loss and Damage Policy, and advancing the National Adaptation Plan.

Economic Outlook

The global economy remains under stress, but Vanuatu's medium-term economic outlook is positive says the Deputy Prime Minister, with real GDP growth projected to accelerate to 3.9% in 2026 and 4.0% from 2027 to 2030. The services sector is recovering, and the government has made significant progress in stabilizing the budget.

Revenue and Expenditure

The 2026 Budget estimates total revenue of VT 46.8 billion, with a focus on strengthening revenue collection and compliance. Expenditure is projected to be VT 64.1 billion, with a mix of domestic borrowing and support from development partners.

Stimulus Package

The government has launched a stimulus package to support recovery and economic resilience, including:

·         Demolition of damaged buildings: VT 312 million allocated for demolition and reconstruction.

·         Wage subsidy program: VT 187 million disbursed to support jobs and ease pressure on employers.

·         Small Business Grants: VT 62 million paid to support over 300 vendors.

Debt Management

The government has launched the Fourth National Debt Management Strategy (2025-2028), aiming to strengthen economic resilience and safeguard financial stability. The strategy provides a clear framework to manage public debt sustainably.

Sectoral Allocations

The budget allocates significant funds to various sectors, including:

·         Infrastructure: VT 3.6 billion for infrastructure development.

·         Health: VT 515.2 million for health infrastructure and services.

·         Education: VT 1.2 billion for education infrastructure and teachers' entitlements.

·         Agriculture: VT 200 million for agricultural development.

The 2026 National Budget is a comprehensive plan to drive economic growth, improve public services, and enhance the well-being of all Ni-Vanuatu. With a focus on building a stronger, smarter, and more united nation, the government is committed to delivering on its promises and preparing Vanuatu for the next 50 years.

The entire budget speech of the Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister is available online.

View Budget Speech 2026 - Ministry of Finance