Kava prices

The tradition, ceremony and culture that surrounds kava could be at the greatest risk.

Following the collapse of the kava market in the 2000s, many South Pacific kava farmers slowed production or walked away from their plantations entirely. Given kava takes a minimum of three years to harvest (depending on the season), response to surging Western and local markets is slow.

The shortage has been linked to the recent severe drought which destroyed many kava plantations.

All kava market areas in the sub-residential areas have been witnessing people queuing up to get their share whenever an interisland vessel arrives in the capital from the outer islands in the hope of getting their shares.

Kava production is struggling to cope with increased demand around Vanuatu's islands.

More farmers in outer islands are selling directly to local bars rather than shipping to Port Vila on Efate where there is no kava production.