The relationship between the Vanuatu Investment Promotion Authority (VIPA) and Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) is becoming stronger and stronger. In his brief remarks today during the workshop, Mr. Shaun Gilchrist who is president of the VCCI claimed the link between the two institutions should be a model for other Governments to do follow.

He went on to state that the private sector were happy to see such relationship as this is in line with the Government’s call for a private sector led-growth initiative. The investment bill that is now ready to go before the parliament saw VIPA and VCCI working hard together on the review as mandated by the Ministry concerned. This relationship has seen the bill getting into its final stage. Then come this national investment policy statement that saw good turn out from the private sector. All this is pointing to one solution – the Government needs the private sector and vice versa.

The private sector will not oppose any policy initiated by the Government, but to be given an opportunity to participate and contribute where appropriate.

Based on current developments, VIPA and VCCI will continue to work together and hopefully this relationship will encourage other groupings to join.