Vanuatu export breakthrough to New Caledonia

Vanuatu Prime Minister Charlot Salwai signed a historic bilateral trade agreement with New Caledonia on Wednesday this week in Noumea.

The signing took place after weeks of discussions between technical officials led by newly appointed Director General, Roy Mickey Joy.

President of the New Caledonian Government, Philippe Germain and the Prime Minister say they wish to see this trade agreement reach a new level.

This agreement opens up export of 29 products from Vanuatu to New Caledonia and 33 prodcuts from New Caledonia to Vanuatu.

Vanuatu products listed for export to New Caledonia include kava, cocoa, cassava, taro, island cabbage, noni juice, coconut juice and flesh.

Favourable tax rates will be taken into account in this trade agreement.

Some of the products in the list will have to go through market assessment.

Technical officials from both sides will be meeting again in March to finalise arrangements once the French Government gives its endorsement.

Beef from Vanuatu is not listed under this agreement yet.


SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST