Vanuatu's Cocoa Revival: Driving Agricultural Growth and Sustainable Development by 2030

The Government of Vanuatu has set an ambitious path for the nation's agricultural future, placing the revival of the cocoa industry at the centre of its new five-year policy direction. The plan was officially announced by Minister of Agriculture Ian Wilson at the National Commercial Commodity Forum in Port Vila — a significant milestone in Vanuatu's journey toward sustainable economic growth and rural empowerment.

Under the new initiative, the government aims to plant two million new cocoa trees by 2030 — boosting exports, creating jobs and strengthening Vanuatu's global agricultural reputation. The Cocoa Strategy 2026–2030 will modernise the sector through improved farming techniques, research into seed varieties and taste profiles, and the preservation of traditional cocoa strains such as "back bod", enhancing Vanuatu's cocoa quality and branding for local and international markets.

Strengthening the agricultural sector beyond cocoa

While cocoa is the key focus, the government's roadmap also supports the development of small livestock, cattle, root crops and beekeeping. Minister Wilson announced a target of 150,000 cattle by 2030, alongside a national school feeding programme that will use locally grown root crops as staple foods in schools and hospitals.

This aligns with the ministry's "island-focused" approach — prioritising investment in serious commercial farmers and ensuring that each island's resources, soil conditions and capacity are matched with suitable crops.

Empowering farmers and strengthening land partnerships

A major component of the plan addresses land ownership and partnership — key elements for long-term agricultural stability. The Ministry of Agriculture will work with the Ministry of Lands to identify legal and suitable farming areas across provinces. Landowners are encouraged to become active partners or owners of agricultural projects to ensure sustainable development.

Innovation, training and technology for farmers

The government will strengthen its agricultural extension network, providing on-the-ground training and capacity building. A new inter-island exchange programme will allow farmers — especially youth — to share experience, culture and best practice. The Vanuatu Primary Producers Authority will launch a digital platform to profile farmers and link them directly with supply chains and markets, enabling data-driven decision-making across all islands.

The ministry is also working with the Ministry of Trade and Commerce to develop new business models and establish cooperatives in regions with strong agricultural production. The goal, in Minister Wilson's words, is that farmers see agriculture as a professional and sustainable business.

A vision for sustainable growth and opportunity

The new agricultural policy is more than a farming initiative — it's a vision for economic resilience, food security and sustainable development. By empowering local farmers, improving productivity and embracing innovation, Vanuatu is building a stronger, more self-reliant economy that honours its people and natural resources.

At Vanuatu Advance Citizenship, we applaud the government's forward-thinking leadership. A stronger agricultural foundation means a stronger Vanuatu — one that continues to grow sustainably while creating opportunities for citizens and investors alike.