Comments

All great comments in isolataion BUT the fact is that the country, without realising it is moving to a state of over regulation in commercial matters. VIPA is where the "P" stands for prevention to start up new businesses. Instead of promotion. VFSC now requires unnecessary documents to create a a new company, etc. Opening a bank account requires FIU and multiple pages of documentaation Most countries that are progressive have few restrictions on new businesses. Vanuatu has gone the other way.

They can join at a later date.

clarify weather it is allowed under PEV for any dependents who are less 18 years join his or parents at a later date or is it compulsory that they travel at the same time

Thank you, James, for sharing part of your study.

I’m interested in studying economics.

I am also doing my own research focus on seasonal workers in Korea. Quite interesting.

Thanks Wenny. Agree with what you say about institutions, particularly healthcare and education. The ideas I raised were all simply short-term ones, but in the long-term, fixing education outweighs absolutely everything else. The only thing I'd pick up on is copra. It is a lot of work for not much money, and exports are way down (just 195m to June, compared to VUV 1,811m in 2017 at its peak. The CRB and low prices have been devastating for this. I don't think copra can therefore be really seen as a primary economic pillar any more.

The best analysis of the Forum that I've seen for a while. Honest and realistic for moving forward.

Solid reflections on a period of pacific regionalism that tested its resolve and the political will of its members. You are absolutely right about "taking critiques on the chin, and yet you go to work wanting to do more" - malo lava!

Hi Peter, thanks for the great article. We (Vanuatu) need to move faster if we truly believe we can cut out the mindless and repetitive paperwork and the associated costs that grind this country to a halt in virtually every department. The time for studies and surveys is over and it is time for change or get left behind. We should embrace the Nomad workspace culture, not only does this bring foreign investment and spending into the country, it also highlights the great opportunities here in Vanuatu for tourism and lifestyle. To entice people to visit here and create opportunities for working abroad we should consider some of the work visas and minimal or zero tax obligations that many European countries have implemented to encourage foreign income and spending which in many cases would outweigh taxable income. There have been some previous articles on the various categories of VIPA and how they discourage this type of travelling entrepreneur or business person and the current system and mindset is likely to drive many who have chosen to live and work here to look for greener pastures. I know a few...

Thanks Peter This discussion directly addresses the challenges and opportunities facing Vanuatu's economy. A significant obstacle remains the ongoing land dispute, which has hindered investments. However, I believe the foundation lies in understanding our economic institutions as well. Question to think around it in terms of: Do people trust the current economic system and government ( to pay tax)? If copra and kava are our primary economic pillars, how can we boost production to enhance market confidence, for people to trust the market and continue producing? Ultimately, it depends on people's reactions and behaviors. Do they trust healthcare to have more children ( raise the population growth rate? Do they trust education to invest in their children's futures to be educated? These questions highlight the interconnectedness of economic institutions especially further looking at the culture, trust, and norms in Vanuatu.

Its good that our poor parents have tried there best in getting the Independence on a Golden plate that we are enjoying today, may our good Lord bless you all in peace.