handicraft

The programme started in March 2018 with 15 clients.

The local handicraft are produced by the weavers of Vetimboso village in west Vanualava and Motalava.

Most of their sales are distributed through the Torba Handicraft Co-operative (THC) to wholesalers mainly in Port Vila targeting a niche market with top quality products from Torba province.

"There is a high opportunity for Torba products to be sold in tourists destination such as Port Vila markets.”

25 people have been registered in the THC as co-operative members.

The concern has come to light after revelation that the handicraft industry in the Pacific nation is worth VT$1.3 billion(US$120 million).

Speaking to PACNEWS on the margins of the Pacific Week of Agriculture underway in Port Vila, the President of the Ni-Vanuatu Art and Craft Association, Josephine Fred said Chinese products, almost similar to Vanuatu goods are sold to tourists at a lower price competing with local products.