Trade Commissioners
Who are Trade Commissioners?
The Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan Economic Policy Objectives emphasized on increasing trade and investment, and access to markets for Vanuatu exports. The Ministry’s contribution to implementing the Plan is through the strategic appointments of Trade Commissioners to assist the government initiatives and goal. Trade Commissioners are prominent business people who can support the government in connecting the right people and potential markets for Vanuatu trade and investment. Trade Commissioners must be a genuine person and ensure the integrity of their representation.
Trade Commissioners may not necessary be diplomats and do not have the same status as officers of diplomatic rank stipulated in the Foreign Service Act. However, some may provide the privilege through a Diplomatic passport to elevate his/her status on a specific assignment by government.
Background Information
Trade Commissioners play an important role in supporting the Government of Vanuatu through establishing business connections, networking, promotion of trade, tourism, investment and supporting Vanuatu business delegations or dignitaries traveling to the assigned jurisdictions abroad.
Objectives
The objectives of the appointment of Trade Commissioners are:
To promote Vanuatu’s interests on trade, tourism and investment abroad;
Create business links and networks for Businesses, and Chamber of Commerce between Vanuatu and each assigned country or city;
To represent Vanuatu businesses and business-related activities that is of benefit to Vanuatu
Duties and Responsibilities
The Duties and Responsibilities of a Trade Commissioners includes:
Contribution towards developing and promoting trade, investment and tourism opportunities;
Provide advice to the government on opportunities for expanding economic and trade relations between Vanuatu and the assigned country;
Facilitate and communicate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade regarding Businesses and investor delegations traveling to Vanuatu;
Assist Vanuatu government and business delegation traveling to the assigned jurisdiction and trade missions;
Communicate relevant developments and assistance through media platforms upon the Director General’s approval;
Represent the Ministry of trade, investment and tourism conferences, and trade fairs upon recommendation of the Director of External Trade and approval by the Foreign Minister
