Information and communications technologies (ICTs) are transforming societies and fueling the growth of the global economy.  Yet despite the broad potential of ICTs, the benefits have not been spread evenly especially in a country that just celebrate 40 years of its independence. Using ICTs effectively to foster social inclusion and economic growth is among the key initiatives to benefit the people today but with the support of more awareness in the sector.

The first e-commerce symposium was held on July 8^th to 9^th and is organised by Vanuatu Post Ltd in partnership with the government with the theme, “Beyond COVID-19, fostering e-commerce landscape in Vanuatu for an interconnected digital economy”. The Ministry of Tourism, Trade, Industry, Commerce, and Ni-Vanuatu Business (MTTICNVB) has adopted a proactive approach on increasing e-commerce for business development as noted in the 2019 Vanuatu Trade Policy framework and the 2018 e-commerce readiness assessment with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

Vanuatu Post Ltd has organised the event with partnership from the government, through the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU), Ministry of Tourism, Trade, Commerce and Ni Vanuatu Business (MTTCNB) and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MoFEM). The e-commerce symposium is expected to become an annual event.

Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of internet not only in Vanuatu but the around globe with easy access in the ICT sector and digital solutions are increasingly needed to continue and support the economic and social activities, particularly, in the remote areas. The pandemic has also stricken unforeseen growth in online commerce and it is critical to continue to enhance the dialogue on Vanuatu’s digital transformation with private sector, public sector, civil society, including donor partners to make sure that everyone benefits from the platforms.

Vanuatu Post Ltd invest in an online platform called Kwik Pay providing financial inclusive, similar to MVATU (VODAFONE), MYCASH(DIGICEL) and MBLOCKCASH(OXFAM). Launching of the online platform is yet to be confirm, pending on further directive approval from the authorities responsible. Kwik pay is a payment getaway with easy registration process at post office prior using the platform, with good use and easy access using mobile phone, pay product online, cash transfer, including paying goods at the shops.

Vanuatu is to fully successful in the competitive field of e-commerce, especially the business community need to established an integrated cross border e-commerce with objective of driving e-commerce in buying and selling of good services and transfer of cash via internet. This includes covid-19 negatively impact revenue which offers alternative revenues resources.

During the event, panel discussion was held, focusing on whether Vanuatu is ready for online and mobile transaction. Chief Executive Officer of the Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency-VFIPA, Mr. Aru, fully supported this claim by acknowledging the use of internet service in the Vanuatu. VFIPA CEO, Mr. Aru stated that VFIPA is taking the lead by negotiating with other government line agencies, particularly, Department of Immigration and State Law Office (SLO), both providing procedural guidelines and legality to support the digital nomads entitative which will be presented to the Council of Ministers (COM) for decision. Digital nomads typically stay longer than leisure tourists in a destination like Vanuatu with no active cases of covid-19 and as they are able to generate income as they travel. Introducing visas specifically for digital nomads and allowing them to stay for extended periods of time and work remotely under certain requirements.

Questioning on why the government is not putting much efforts in the ICT infrastructure, VFIPA CEO, Mr. Aru, further stated investments in digital infrastructure need commitment from the government and stakeholders to work together. Which can lead to promoting a sustainable commercial environment for digital marketing that can shape an effective path for the growth of the economy.

ICTs have brought new opportunities to people of all ages but more importantly supporting the growth of the economy through investment opportunities, enabling them to achieve more in discovering new ways of communicating and operating new businesses. The use of ICTs has fueled productivity and economic growth and truly transformed the way people work, learn, and socialize. ICT sector is very crucial for investment opportunity, through supportive innovation and the bridging of the digital markets by promoting access for better enabling business environment through products and services.