AGP Executive Report

Tourism Strategy Launch: Vanuatu Tourism Office has officially rolled out the Vanuatu Tourism Marketing Strategy 2026–2028, unveiled during the 3rd Vanuatu Tourism Market Forum (19–20 June) at Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu, aiming to shift from recovery to sustainable growth with targets of 120,000 overnight arrivals by end of 2026 and 150,000 annual visitors by 2028. Market Forum Focus: The forum’s theme, “Gateway to Growth—Australia, Aviation, & Cruise,” brought together tourism executives, aviation and cruise leaders, with emphasis on strengthening aviation capacity, growing the cruise (including yachting) market, and boosting share in Australia. Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu announced Philippe “Phil” Busson as the new CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, marking another step in the national carrier’s rebuilding and fleet investment era. Regional Travel Context: Australia is open to a Pacific-wide security deal, with Solomon Islands and Fiji in the diplomatic mix—an indirect but important factor for visitor confidence and regional connectivity. Cruise Deal Push: EOFY travel sales are still running in Australia, with cruise and holiday discounts and onboard credit offers ending June 30.

Tourism Strategy Launch: Vanuatu Tourism Office has officially rolled out its 2026–2028 Tourism Marketing Strategy at the 3rd Vanuatu Tourism Market Forum, aiming to move from recovery to sustainable growth, with targets of 120,000 overnight arrivals by end-2026 and 150,000 annual visitors by 2028. Market Forum Focus: The forum’s “Gateway to Growth—Australia, Aviation, & Cruise” theme put aviation capacity, cruise (including yachting), and stronger Australia market share front and centre, aligning operators and partners around shifting booking behaviour and province-wide experience upgrades. Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who led the airline through major fleet renewal and recent restructuring. Cruise Deal Push: With EOFY sales ending June 30, Australian cruise and travel operators are advertising big discounts and onboard credit—useful for travellers planning Vanuatu trips ahead. Regional Context: A Pacific-wide look at the fuel crisis shows how soaring fuel and electricity costs disrupted travel and economies—an important backdrop for Vanuatu’s tourism planning.

Tourism Strategy Rollout: Vanuatu Tourism Office has officially launched its 2026–2028 Tourism Marketing Strategy, unveiled at the 19–20 June Vanuatu Tourism Market Forum, aiming to move from recovery to strategic growth with targets of 120,000 overnight arrivals by end-2026 and 150,000 annual visitors by 2028. Aviation & Cruise Focus: The forum’s “Gateway to Growth—Australia, Aviation, & Cruise” theme put spotlight on boosting aviation capacity, growing cruise (including yachting), and strengthening Vanuatu’s position in Australia, its key source market. Digital Upgrade for Visitors: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, plus new solar-powered seafront lighting—an easy win for tourists, students and local businesses during post-disaster rebuild. Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer as the national carrier continues fleet and operations rebuilding. Fuel Crisis Lessons: A Pacific-wide review shows how the fuel crisis drove sharp increases in fuel and electricity costs and pushed leaders to seek support and renewable energy solutions.

Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer after more than two decades of service. Port Vila Visitor Boost: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, plus new solar-powered seafront lighting, aimed at helping tourists, students and businesses as the city rebuilds. Regional Travel Context: A Pacific Trade Invest China update says China’s shift toward higher-end, low-volume products is opening new export opportunities for Pacific nations—useful backdrop for tourism-linked trade and visitor demand. Vanuatu in the Spotlight: Negotiations are underway over Matthew and Hunter Islands, tied to Vanuatu’s Tafea cultural connections and a long-running sovereignty dispute with France. Safety & Disruption Watch: A wider Pacific fuel crisis analysis notes sharp diesel and electricity cost rises across the region, with leaders pushing renewables like solar to reduce future shocks. Cruise Disruption: Carnival Cruise Line cancelled another 2027 sailing due to dry dock schedule changes, a reminder to travellers to recheck plans.

Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer after more than two decades guiding the national carrier through fleet renewal, safety re-registration and major disruptions. Port Vila Digital Boost: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, launched during the city council’s 51st anniversary celebrations, with solar-powered seafront lighting also announced to support visitors and local life during post-disaster recovery. Pacific Education Focus: Education unions and partners met in Apia to push for stronger public education across the Pacific, tackling teacher shortages, workload, mental health and funding—Vanuatu included among participating countries. Tourism Business Angle: Luxury travel specialist Journeys N Tales says demand is shifting toward bespoke, experience-led journeys for affluent Indian travellers, a reminder of the kind of high-touch product Vanuatu operators can tailor. Cruise Disruption: Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled another 2027 sailing due to dry dock schedule changes, a heads-up for travellers planning South Pacific itineraries. Regional Security Talks: Solomon Islands’ new leadership signals a “reset” with Australia and wants China’s policing role sidelined, with implications for broader Pacific stability and travel confidence.

Air Vanuatu: Air Vanuatu’s board has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as the national carrier’s new CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer after a tenure that included fleet renewal and rebuilding operations. Port Vila Connectivity: Port Vila City Council has rolled out free Wi‑Fi on the waterfront, pitching it as a boost for tourists, students and local businesses during post-disaster recovery, alongside new solar-powered seafront lighting. Tourism Business & Travel: Luxury travel specialist Journeys N Tales says demand is rising for bespoke, experience-led trips over standard package holidays—an angle that matters for Vanuatu’s high-end visitor market. Cruise Disruption: Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled another 2027 sailing due to dry dock schedule changes, a reminder for travellers planning Pacific itineraries. Regional Tourism Investment: AHICE Fiji’s record tourism investment conference wrapped in Nadi with 420+ attendees, highlighting ongoing Pacific appetite for deals and partnerships.

Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu (Operations) Ltd has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who led the carrier through major fleet renewal and restructuring. Port Vila Digital Boost: Free Wi‑Fi is now live on the Port Vila waterfront, part of the Port Vila City Council’s post-disaster rebuild push, with added solar-powered seafront lighting and a 2026–2030 strategic plan. Pacific Tourism & Trade Links: Pacific Trade Invest China highlights how China’s shift toward higher-end consumer demand is opening value-added export opportunities for Pacific Island businesses, relevant for tourism supply chains and visitor experiences. Regional Travel Context: A warm-water expedition cruise trend is spotlighting South Pacific and Melanesia itineraries, including voyages that feature Vanuatu among other island stops. Commonwealth Games Travel Buzz: Fiji, Niue and Vanuatu have named Commonwealth Games teams for Glasgow starting 23 July, adding another reason for Pacific sports fans to plan travel.

Air Vanuatu Leadership: Air Vanuatu (Operations) has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who led the national carrier through fleet renewal, IOSA re-registration and major disruptions including Cyclone Pam and COVID-19. Port Vila Connectivity: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, announced during the city council’s 51st anniversary celebrations, alongside new solar-powered seafront lighting and a 2026–2030 strategic plan focused on infrastructure, innovation and economic growth. Cruise Disruption: Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled another 2027 sailing due to dry dock schedule changes, this time a 16-day repositioning cruise from Singapore to Sydney. Tourism & Nature Safety: A guide to warm-water expedition cruising highlights South Pacific and Melanesia itineraries that blend remote shore visits with local culture and nature—useful for travellers planning Vanuatu-focused adventures. Regional Skills for Fisheries: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency is opening nominations for a Certificate IV in Fisheries Enforcement and Compliance (Cohort 12) starting 7 September 2026, aimed at strengthening frontline enforcement across Pacific waters.

Air Travel & Tourism: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer after a long stint that included fleet renewal and rebuilding operations—good news for travellers watching for stability and service upgrades. Digital Connectivity: Port Vila City Council has rolled out free Wi‑Fi on the waterfront, aiming to boost access for tourists, students and businesses as the capital continues post-disaster recovery. Pacific Business & Trade: Pacific Trade Invest China’s Mona Mato says Chinese demand is shifting toward higher-end, value-added Pacific exports—an opportunity for Vanuatu operators looking beyond volume. Cruising: Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled another 2027 sailing due to dry dock schedule changes, a reminder to travellers to double-check itinerary updates. Regional Security Politics: Solomon Islands’ new leadership is pushing for a “reset” with Australia and reviewing China-linked policing/security arrangements—developments that could shape the wider Pacific travel environment. Sports & Culture: Vanuatu is among island nations naming teams for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, while Melanesian music ties are highlighted by WAN FIRE in PNG with Vanuatu DJs on the bill.

Air Travel & Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who led the carrier through major fleet renewal, safety re-registration, and tough periods including Cyclone Pam and COVID-19. Visitor-Friendly Upgrades: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, announced during the city council’s 51st anniversary celebrations, with officials also unveiling new solar-powered seafront lighting to boost safety and sustainability. Regional Tourism & Connectivity: A warm-water expedition cruise guide highlights South Pacific and Melanesia itineraries, including voyages that can feature Vanuatu alongside Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Sports Tourism Buzz: Fiji, Niue and Vanuatu have named teams for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games starting 23 July, adding another reason for Pacific fans to plan travel and follow island athletes. Pacific Business & Investment: AHICE Fiji’s record tourism investment conference wrapped in Nadi with 420+ attendees, spotlighting deal-making and hotel investment momentum across the wider Pacific.

Air Travel & Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who led the carrier through major fleet renewal, safety re-registration, and post-cyclone and COVID recovery. Cruising & Schedules: Carnival Cruise Line has cancelled another 2027 voyage after dry dock schedule changes, this time a 16-day repositioning cruise from Singapore to Sydney. Connectivity in Port Vila: Free Wi-Fi is now available on the Port Vila waterfront, alongside new solar-powered seafront lighting, as the city pushes ahead with post-disaster upgrades. Tourism Planning & Access: A warm-water expedition cruise trend is highlighting South Pacific and Melanesia itineraries, with operators positioning Vanuatu and nearby islands for more culture-and-nature-focused shore time. Safety & Nature Awareness: A roundup of surf beaches known for crocodile sightings is a reminder for coastal visitors to check local wildlife guidance before paddling out. Sport & Visitor Interest: Vanuatu has named its Glasgow Commonwealth Games team, adding another reason for regional travel buzz around late July.

Air Connectivity: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer after a long stint guiding fleet renewal and rebuilding operations. Port Vila Tech Boost: Free Wi‑Fi is now live on the Port Vila waterfront, with solar-powered seafront lighting also announced as the city pushes post-disaster recovery and smarter visitor services. Cruise Disruption: Carnival Cruise Line has canceled another 2027 sailing after dry dock schedule changes, a reminder that itinerary plans can shift fast for travellers. Surf Safety Watch: A roundup of surf beaches known for crocodile sightings highlights the need for extra caution where wildlife and popular breaks overlap. Regional Tourism Context: Warm-water expedition cruising is being marketed as a way to reach remote South Pacific and Melanesian destinations like Vanuatu, with more culture-focused shore time. Sports & Travel Demand: Vanuatu has named its team for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, adding another reason for travel interest around the Pacific.

Air Travel & Airlines: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who led the carrier through fleet renewal, safety re-registration and major restructuring. Port Vila Connectivity: Free Wi‑Fi is now live on the Port Vila waterfront, with solar-powered seafront lighting also announced as the city pushes post-disaster recovery and tourism-friendly upgrades. Cruise Disruption: Carnival Cruise Line has canceled a rare 16-day Southeast Asia repositioning voyage (Singapore to Sydney) for Sept 1, 2027, blaming dry dock schedule changes for Carnival Splendor. Regional Tourism & Culture: Vanuatu acts are among international performers heading to PNG’s WAN FIRE Music Festival in Port Moresby, with Air Niugini supporting travel links across Melanesia. Tourism Planning Inspiration: A new look at warm-water expedition cruising highlights South Pacific and Melanesia itineraries that mix remote landings with culture and nature—useful ideas for Vanuatu itinerary builders. Commonwealth Games: Fiji, Niue and Vanuatu have named teams for Glasgow 2026, adding more regional travel interest ahead of the July 23 start.

Air Travel & Leadership: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Joseph Laloyer after more than two decades guiding the national carrier through fleet renewal, safety re-registration, codeshare growth, Cyclone Pam recovery, COVID-19 and restructuring. Connectivity for Visitors: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, launched during the city council’s 51st anniversary celebrations, aiming to help tourists, students and businesses as the capital rebuilds. Tourism & Culture in the Region: Vanuatu acts DJ Wilz and DJ Pakx are among Pacific performers heading to Papua New Guinea for the WAN FIRE Music Festival in Port Moresby, with Air Niugini supporting travel links across Melanesia. Warm-Water Cruise Ideas: A new guide highlights how warm-water expedition-style cruising is expanding across the South Pacific and Melanesia, including itineraries featuring Vanuatu and neighbouring islands. Community & Identity: A Vanuatu Pride Month photo-shoot backlash has sparked renewed debate online, with the Prime Minister’s Office urging respectful dialogue aligned with Vanuatu’s Christian identity and Melanesian values.

Air Connectivity: Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe “Phil” Busson as its new CEO, succeeding Joseph Laloyer, who steered the airline through major fleet renewal, safety re-registration and restructuring. Digital Tourism & City Life: Port Vila waterfront now has free Wi‑Fi, rolled out with Pacific Network, plus new solar-powered seafront lighting—aimed at boosting access for tourists, students and local businesses. Melanesian Culture on Stage: WAN FIRE Music Festival in Port Moresby (June 20) brings Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Fiji artists together, with Air Niugini supporting travel links across the region. Tourism & Trade Outlook: Pacific Trade Invest China says China’s shift toward higher-end, low-volume demand is opening value-added export opportunities for Pacific islands—useful context for Vanuatu’s visitor economy and trade. Sports Tourism: Fiji, Niue and Vanuatu have named teams for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games (starting July 23), adding another reason for Pacific fans to travel and tune in. Regional Skills for Maritime Jobs: FFA fisheries enforcement scholarships (USP-linked) are open for nominations for Cohort 12, starting Sept 7, 2026—frontline capacity that supports safer ocean-based tourism and operations.

Port Vila upgrades visitor experience: Free Wi‑Fi has launched on the Port Vila waterfront, announced during the Port Vila City Council’s 51st anniversary celebrations, with officials saying it will help students, tourists, and local businesses as the capital continues post-disaster recovery. Vanuatu tourism community & culture: Groovy Banana co-founder Gaelle Meheut is calling for respectful dialogue after a Pride Month Facebook post sparked backlash in Vanuatu, highlighting how social media debates are spilling into local community life. Sports tourism draw: Fiji, Niue and Vanuatu have named their teams for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games (starting 23 July), adding another regional spotlight for athletes and fans planning travel. Regional travel inspiration: A new look at warm-water expedition cruising highlights South Pacific and Melanesia itineraries that include Vanuatu, positioning the islands as “remote spot” destinations for culture and nature-focused travellers. OFC Pro League boost: Vanuatu United FC is among the clubs in the financially secured OFC Pro League (next three years), keeping Vanuatu on the regional football map for match-day travel.