Historic First Export of Santo Water Taro to Australia Marks Success of VBS-led National Standard Packhouse System
Date: April 23, 2026
Port Vila, Vanuatu – The Vanuatu Bureau of Standards (VBS) today celebrates a landmark achievement for the nation’s agricultural sector: the first-ever commercial export of a container of water taro from Santo to the Melbourne market in Australia.
This historic shipment, which took place last Friday, directly implements the Government mandate under Council of Ministers (COM) Decision No. 51 of 2025. This decision tasked VBS with establishing and operationalising the National Standard Packhouse System (SPS), a critical reform to open formal export pathways for root crops.
Meeting Australia's Strict Requirements
According to the CEO of VBS, Mr. Atanas Pipite, this achievement proves that Vanuatu has now met Australia's strict biosecurity (SPS) and import requirements.
“We have shifted from informal agricultural exports to a standards-based, controlled farm-to-market system,” Mr. Pipite said. “This is not a one-off shipment. It is the establishment of a long-term export mechanism designed to maintain quality, increase farmer income, and build confidence in international markets.”
A Whole-of-Government Success
The export was made possible through a coordinated national system bringing together key partners across the value chain:
- VBS led the packhouse phase and national integration platform.
- Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) managed farmer coordination, pre-harvest quality control, and traceability.
- Department of Biosecurity (DOB) ensured compliance and inspection.
- Vanuatu Customs monitored handling, temperature, and export logistics.
- World Best Trading (WBT) acted as the official export partner under an MOU with Melbourne wholesaler, Market Fresh.
Next Steps: Second Shipment & Nationwide Expansion
The second export is expected next month, coinciding with the official commissioning of the Santo Packhouse by Prime Minister Jotham Napat. Upon arrival in Melbourne, Trade Minister Samson Samsen and his Australian counterpart will formally open the container, marking the completion of the end-to-end pathway.
Furthermore, starting in July 2026, VBS will begin construction of additional packhouses in Pentecost, Malekula, and Tanna with a budget of VT300 million.
“This initiative represents real progress in building direct access to high-value markets, strengthening trade relations with Australia, and generating foreign exchange income for our farmers,” CEO Pipite concluded.
The VBS extends its congratulations to the Santo farmers, the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, and all national partners for this historic achievement.
