How to Start and Run a Business in Vanuatu: Your No-Nonsense Guide

So, you want to start a business in Vanuatu? Good news—you’re in for an adventure. The bad news? If you go in blind, you might end up in a paperwork nightmare, wondering why your “simple” business idea now involves 14 forms, a government office that closes at 3 PM, and a very confused accountant. But don’t worry, I’ve got you.

This guide is your roadmap to getting set up without losing your sanity.

Step One: Get Your Paperwork in Order

Vanuatu may be a tropical paradise, but setting up a business still requires good ol’ bureaucracy. Here’s what you need:

✅ Register your business name. (Yes, you do need an official name, and no, "Tropical Vibes Inc." is probably taken.)

✅ Get your business license. (No license = no business, simple as that.)

✅ Register with the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC).

✅ Get your tax affairs in order (or find someone who actually enjoys dealing with tax paperwork).

💡 Freebie Alert: Grab our step-by-step checklist so you don’t miss anything.

1.What Businesses Actually Work Here?

Not every business idea will thrive in Vanuatu. If you’re thinking of opening a ski shop… maybe reconsider. Some of the best business opportunities include:

🏨 Tourism & Hospitality: Hotels, resorts, and adventure experiences. Tourists come for paradise—give them an experience they won’t forget.

📦 Import & Export: Fresh local products (like kava and coconut-based goodies) are in high demand abroad.

🌐 Online Businesses: With fewer local options, e-commerce and remote services can do well.

🍍 Agriculture & Farming: Fresh produce, organic goods, and sustainable farming are booming.

2.Taxes, Money & All That Fun Stuff

Vanuatu is a tax haven, but that doesn’t mean you can just ignore finances. Some things to keep in mind:

⚡ There’s no corporate tax (yay!) but there are business license fees, VAT, and import duties.

⚡ Banking here can be tricky—choose a local bank or keep an offshore account for flexibility.

⚡ Make friends with a good accountant. Seriously, just do it.

3.The Local Business Culture: What You Need to Know

Here’s where a lot of foreign business owners go wrong: they don’t take the time to understand how business is done here.

Some must-know facts:

🗣 Bislama is key: Not everyone speaks English or French, so learning the basics helps build trust.

🤝 Relationships matter: Don’t just show up and expect instant deals. People do business with people they trust.

🚶🏽 Time moves differently here: Rushing won’t get you anywhere—learn to adapt.

4.Resources & Support to Make Your Life Easier

Instead of going full DIY, take advantage of resources:

📌 The Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority (VIPA) helps foreign investors navigate the system.

📌 Chambers of Commerce and networking groups connect you with local business owners.

📌 Online communities (Facebook groups, LinkedIn, etc.) are goldmines for expat entrepreneurs.

Ready to Get Started?

Download our free business registration checklist and make your dream business happen—without the stress. 🚀