National Garment and Textile Strategy launched to grow local industry

Jul 6, 2026 | News | 0

The Department of Industry (DOI) under the Ministry of Trade and Commerce (MOTC) has launched the Vanuatu National Garment and Textile Strategy 2026–2031, setting out a roadmap to strengthen and formalise the country’s garment and textile sector and create new opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and local manufacturing.

The strategy aims to transform the sector into a competitive industry that supports local businesses while promoting Vanuatu’s cultural identity through locally designed and produced clothing.

Although tailoring and small-scale garment production have existed in Vanuatu for many years, much of the industry continues to operate informally. This has limited access to formal training, finance, modern equipment and government support, despite growing demand for locally made clothing from schools, businesses, churches, families and seasonal workers.

Launching the strategy, Minister of Trade and Commerce Samson Samsen said the sector has considerable potential to contribute to the country’s economic development.

“I recognise the sector’s potential to create jobs, support women’s entrepreneurship and express our national identity through clothing that reflects who we are,” he said.

Government procurement to favour local producers

A Council of Ministers (COM) decision will require government ministries and departments to prioritise purchasing uniforms from domestic garment producers that hold a valid industry permit and Vanuatu Made certification.

Overseas suppliers will only be considered if no compliant local supplier can meet procurement requirements.

The measure is expected to create more business opportunities for local manufacturers and retain more government spending within the national economy.

National sizing standards and Lapita-inspired designs

The DOI, in partnership with the Vanuatu Bureau of Standards (VBS), will develop Vanuatu’s first National Garment Sizing Standard. Standard sizes, including small, medium and large, will be based on body measurements collected from communities across the country, from Torres to Aneityum.

The initiative aims to improve consistency, garment quality and customer satisfaction by ensuring clothing better reflects the body shapes of Ni-Vanuatu.

To strengthen Vanuatu’s identity in fashion, the government and the Vanuatu Kaljoral Senta (VKS) will promote the use of authentic Lapita-inspired designs in locally produced garments.

Tailors will be provided with fabrics featuring Lapita pottery motifs discovered throughout Vanuatu to encourage the creation of distinctive local fashion.

The initiative will culminate in an annual Vanuatu Made Fashion Show, featuring an award for the best garment incorporating Lapita-inspired designs.

Industry association to provide leadership

The government will also establish an interim board of the Vanuatu National Garment and Textile Association, with the DOI serving as the secretariat during its initial phase.

A fully elected board and chairperson are expected to be in place by the end of the year to improve industry coordination and advocate for policies that support long-term sector development.

Challenges facing the sector

The strategy identifies several challenges affecting the industry. One of the most significant is the lack of formal training and recognised certification.

Most tailors acquire their skills through informal apprenticeships, resulting in inconsistent garment quality and sizing and limiting opportunities to expand and compete for larger commercial contracts.

The industry also relies heavily on imported fabrics and has limited production of textiles featuring uniquely Vanuatu designs. This dependence increases production costs and reduces opportunities for product differentiation and value addition.

Competition among local tailors is another challenge, with many businesses producing similar products, particularly island dresses, creating an oversaturated market. Although demand for school uniforms, corporate uniforms and professional attire continues to grow, many large orders continue to be awarded overseas because local producers often lack industrial equipment, bulk purchasing arrangements and efficient production systems.

The absence of a coordinated industry body has also limited the sector’s ability to advocate for policies and investments that support sustainable growth.

Strategic priorities for growth

The strategy outlines several priorities to address these constraints, including expanding accredited education and skills development programmes, introducing national quality standards for garment production, encouraging innovation and uniquely Vanuatu brands and designs, improving access to industrial sewing equipment and shared services, and strengthening industry governance.

The government envisions a stronger garment and textile sector that contributes significantly to economic growth, strengthens local manufacturing and showcases Vanuatu’s cultural identity through fashion and design.

Supporting economic development and inclusion

The strategy also aligns with the MOTC’s priorities by supporting private sector development, promoting regulatory compliance, strengthening stakeholder engagement, improving service delivery and encouraging participation by women, youth, persons with disabilities and rural communities.

It also promotes the use of digital tools, including online marketing, e-commerce platforms and modern production management systems.

The strategy further supports the National Sustainable Development Plan 2016–2030 by advancing inclusive economic growth, employment creation and domestic manufacturing, with the aim of building a competitive and resilient private sector that generates sustainable employment and promotes Vanuatu’s unique identity through fashion.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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