The Vanuatu economy is currently growing at a healthy 3.2% annually ( 2004 figure). This is in no small part due to a surge in foreign investment, as word spreads about the advantages Vanuatu can offer.
A combination of ongoing economic reform, favorable taxation laws, social harmony and geographical proximity to Australia and New Zealand make Vanuatu a safe and attractive place to invest.
While current growth is being driven by a real estate boom, including tourism investment, sectors such as agriculture, aquaculture and light manufacturing also have significant untapped potential.
I welcome this Business Advantage survey of business opportunities in Vanuatu and encourage would-be investors to visit our beautiful islands- to see for yourselves what we have to offer.

 About VIPA

The Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority (VIPA) is the first point of call for all foreign investors planning to invest in Vanuatu.

VIPA's primary role is the promotion of Direct Foreign Investment into the Republic of Vanuatu and to provide a service to all foreign investors from initial inquiry to a project's operational stage and even beyond.

It provides general information packages and advice on investment opportunities, incentives and investment procedures in Vanuatu. VIPA is also empowered to facilitate business expansions and variations and to facilitate investors' requests for work permits, residence permits, business licenses and other government approvals. No foreign investor is allowed to do any business in Vanuatu until an approval is given by the Vanuatu Government through the VIPA Board.

VIPA will guide you to do business in Vanuatu and work with you to make your investment in the country a success.

Vision
To coordinate and facilitate the creation of highly investor-friendly and welcoming atmosphere for foreign investment in Vanuatu.

Mission Statement
To expeditiously facilitate, promote and foster foreign investment in Vanuatu and to generate greater economic prosperity for the people of Vanuatu. VIPA staffs are made available to assist investors in the following ways:
Advise you on Government Policies relating to investment in Vanuatu
Advise you on investment opportunities in each economic sector in each province
Advise you on investment procedures in Vanuatu.

VIPA are able to introduce investors to relevant local business contacts that will help facilitate business prospects in Vanuatu. VIPA have the resources available to help investors pinpoint investment opportunities, and in collaboration with the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry assist investors to identify prospective joint venture partners if needed.
Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority
Level 1, Pilioko House
PMB 9011, Port Vila, Vanuatu
Tel:+678- 24096/24441
Fax:+678-25216
Email:ceovipa@vanuatu.com.vu
www.investinvanuatu.com