Vanuatu Transport and Climate Profile 2026

Outline

VANUATU

TRANSPORT AND CLIMATE PROFILE


Supported by:


Transport and Climate Change

Transport Energy Consumption

Adaptation and Resilience

Other Externalities

Vehicle Fleet

Urban Transport

Transport Investments

Transport and Climate Policy Documents

Distribution of Transport and Climate Policy Measures in Policy Documents

National Policy Priorities on Transport

Direct GHG Targets

These tables contains transport-relevant (e.g. economy-wide; sector-specific) GHG emissions targets as explicitly mentioned in the policy documents.

Economy-wide GHG emissions mandates

Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) - VUT2015100% below BAU emissions for electricity sub-sector and 30% for energy sector as a whole.2030

Net zero, carbon neutrality

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu202302050

Indirect Transport Climate Change Targets

These tables show non-GHG targets as specified in the policy documents which indirectly benefit climate change mitigation and adaptation in the transport sector.

Active mobility - General

Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy20231,000 electric two-wheel (e-bikes)/three-wheelers (e-rickshaws)2030

Biofuels

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to increase the blending of diesel with biodiesel (including coconut biofuel) for use in transportation to more than 20% by 2035, thereby reducing emissions by 185 kt CO₂ eq overall.2035
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy202320% biodiesel (biofuel) blending in diesel2030
Vanuatu Updated NDC2022By 2030, 20 % bio-diesel (bio-fuel) blending in diesel.2030
Vanuatu NDC Implementation Roadmap2021 20 percent biodiesel (biofuel) blending in diesel 2030

EV - General

Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy20231,000 electric two-wheel (e-bikes)/three-wheelers (e-rickshaws)2030

EV in public transport

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to expanding the access to and use of Electric Vehicles (e-mobility): by 2035 (a) Introduce e-buses for public transportation (10% of total public buses); (b) Introduce e-cars in Vanuatu (10% of government fleet); and (c) 1,000 electric two wheelers (e-bikes)/three wheelers (e-rickshaw), thereby reducing emissions by 26.1 kt CO₂ eq overall2035
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Electric vehicles (e-buses) for public transportation (10% of total public buses) 2030

EV mandates/ procurement

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to expanding the access to and use of Electric Vehicles (e-mobility): by 2035 (a) Introduce e-buses for public transportation (10% of total public buses); (b) Introduce e-cars in Vanuatu (10% of government fleet); and (c) 1,000 electric two wheelers (e-bikes)/three wheelers (e-rickshaw), thereby reducing emissions by 26.1 kt CO₂ eq overall2035
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Electric cars (e-cars) in Vanuatu (10% of government fleet)2030
Vanuatu Updated NDC2022Electric Vehicles (e-mobility): by 2030, (a) Introduce e-buses for public transportation (10% of total public buses); (b) Introduce e-cars in Vanuatu (10% of government fleet); and (c) 1000 electric two wheelers (e-bikes)/three wheelers (e-rickshaw).2030
Vanuatu NDC Implementation Roadmap2021Electric vehicles (e-buses) for public transportation (10 percent of total public buses) Electric cars (e-Cars) in Vanuatu (10 percent of government fleet) 1,000 electric two-wheelers (e-bikes)/three-wheelers (e-rickshaws)2030

Green shipping program

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to continue its engagement with the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership (PBSP) pursuing a commitment of a 100% carbon-free maritime transport sector by 2050, and will establish a policy and regulatory framework for the reduction of GHG in the maritime transport sector and transition all major ports to Green Ports with high resilience.2050

Managing transport energy consumption

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to a 10% improvement in transport (land and marine) energy efficiency, including tourism transport, by reducing fuel consumption and more efficient use of petrol (gasoline), diesel, Aviation Gasoline (AVG) and Jet Kerosene, thereby reducing emissions by 98.6 kt CO₂ eq overall.2035
Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu202302050
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Energy (transport): 105 Gg CO2-e2040
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Low Emission (LEDS) scenario: Energy (transport): 90 Gg CO2-e2050
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Improve transport (land and marine) energy efficiency, 10% saving on the BAU projection. Energy (transport): 110 Gg CO2-e2030

Renewable energy

Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Explore the potential for powering sea-going vessels and land-based vehicles with renewable energy2030
Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) - VUT2015To approach 100% renewable energy in the electricity sub-sector contingent upon appropriate financial and technical support made available2030

Shipping efficiency improvements

Vanuatu Updated NDC2022By 2030, 10% improvement in transport (land and marine) energy efficiency.2030
Vanuatu NDC Implementation Roadmap2021Improve transport (land and marine) energy efficiency - % savings on BAU projection= 10% (2030)2030

Vehicle efficiency standards

Vanuatu Updated NDC2022By 2030, Mileage and Emission Standards for Vehicles. By 2030, 10% improvement in transport (land and marine) energy efficiency.2030
Vanuatu NDC Implementation Roadmap2021Improve transport (land and marine) energy efficiency - % savings on BAU projection= 10% (2030)2030
Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Improve transport (land and marine) energy efficiency: % saving on BAU projection = 10 (2030)2030

Transport and Climate Policy Measures

These tables list the policy measures that relate to climate change mitigation and adaptation in the transport sector that had been identified in the transport policy documents.

Access restriction by corridor/ road

Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu Road Traffic (Control)1962(1) It shall be unlawful to drive any heavy vehicle within the town limits of Port Vila and Luganville from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., 11 a.m. to 12 noon, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Friday, and on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 12 noon. (2) The Minister may, by Order, prescribe different times for the purpose of subsection (1), and he may in such Orders specify areas or public roads within the town limits of Port Vila and Luganville to which subsection (1) shall apply. x

Active mobility - General

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to expanding emissions free and active transport such as safe walking, cycling and micro-mobility through promotion and active facilitation of healthy lifestyles and health-seeking behaviours.x

Aircraft fleet renovation

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu20230x

Aviation fuels - General

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to a 10% improvement in transport (land and marine) energy efficiency, including tourism transport, by reducing fuel consumption and more efficient use of petrol (gasoline), diesel, Aviation Gasoline (AVG) and Jet Kerosene, thereby reducing emissions by 98.6 kt CO₂ eq overall.x

Aviation improvements - General

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu2023Improved air traffic management and related infrastructure use - Runway lighting in NVVV (Port Vila) changed to LED. - Runway light in NVVW (Tanna)x
Vanuatu Tourism Market Development Plan 20302019To ensure the success of new aviation routes in the early stages of establishment marketing activities need to commence well before the first flight in addition this is to create interest and desire to travel to Vanuatu from markets and cities that may never have heard of Vanuatu. x

Aviation safety

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu2023Enhancing weather forecasting services - x

Aviation traffic management

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu20230 Improved air traffic management and related infrastructure usex

Biofuels

Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Consolidate and expand the use of locally produced bio-fuels as an alternative to fossil fuels for electricity generation and transport Support the Department of Agriculture to develop a policy for the coconut industry, which would cover coconut oil for electricity generation, coconut oil-based fuel for land and sea transport, and increasing production of copra value-added productsxx

Capacity building - General

Vanuatu Transport Sector Support Program (VTSSP)n.d.strengthen the financial management skills of MIPU / PWD staff.
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Vanuatu's transition to a low emissions climate resilient transport future requires a skills base and labour pool to support new technologies. Feedback from industry consultation recognised shortfalls in electrical engineering and computer skills, as well as availability of equipment for hands-on learning as part of new technical training curriculum for servicing hybrid and electric vehicles currently under development by the Vanuatu Qualifications Authority (VQA) as limiting the capacity of private sector to offer services. Vanuatu's National Human Resources Development Plan should be augmented with a clean technology skills focus.
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Enhance the capacity and accountability of public officials, and ensure the impartiality and effectiveness of performance management systems. Strengthen national institutions to ensure they are cost-effective and well-resourced to deliver quality public servicesx
Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Build capacity to develop energy efficiency programmes, undertake energy audits, and maintain energy efficient equipment
Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Promote Vanuatu as a crewing nation by ensuring that education and training continue to comply with international standards and will support, possibly through legislation, the hiring by shipping companies of Ni-Vanuatu.x

Climate-informed design standards

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Build climate change resilience into road design and construction standardsx
Vanuatu 20302016Enact clear infrastructure governance, legislative frameworks and standards for resilient infrastructure and maintenance
Rural Roads Access Framework2013design and construction of the South Santo Road to improve its resilience to climate-related hazards and/or eventsx

Data collection and repositories - General

Vanuatu Transport Sector Support Program (VTSSP)n.d.update of the functional road classification and road asset register to help strengthen the planning and budgeting of works support MIPU with the preparation of an updated inventory of road building materials (including locally available materials)x
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Strengthen research, data and statistics for accountability and decision-making.x
Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Improve the collection, analysis, monitoring, and collation (within a central system) of data on energy end-use by sector (electricity, liquid fuels, biomass) and use (cooking, transport, etc.). To include training of DoE officials as needed

Data modelling

Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023The development of an energy and transport sector model for LEAP is intended to support ongoing work of government and utilities in Vanuatu. The modelling supports strategic choices for long-term expansion of electricity in geography and uses, as well as renewable generation sources. Energy and transport sector modelling were undertaken using Low Emissions Analysis Platform (LEAP)71

Development of national energy plan/ policy

Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Explore options for promoting energy efficiency in the transport sector (including in tourism uses) and develop an action plan for cost-effective implementationxxx

Development of transport adaptation/ emergency/ disaster/ recovery plan/ policy

National Policy on Climate Change and Disaster-Induced Displacement2018A relocation plan should be developed based a comprehensive assessment of the different needs of men, women, children, vulnerable and minority groups, including social-cultural dimensions. It should also include plans for the provision of basic utilities (water, sanitation, electricity) and services (health, education and transportation) and livelihood restoration (Also see Strategic Areas 6-10);
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Develop disaster response plans and provide a means to deliver recovery funding

Disaster monitoring

Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016increasing rainfall collectors and installing telemetered automated weather stations across Vanuatu; • ensuring that all active volcanoes have monitoring facilities that meet minimum data standards, and increasing the number of volcano monitoring stations on active volcanoes nearby to high population centers; • increasing the number of earthquake monitoring stations to cover the entire nation.

Disaster notification/ early warning system

Vanuatu Updated NDC2022Vanuatu commits to improve its Climate Early Warning System (CLEWS), with tailored climate bulletins issued to specific end-users and incorporating mobile phone apps
Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016Strengthen early warning systems by: • building on all hazard warning services to improve community access to timely and accurate warnings; • incorporating both modern technology and traditional methods into early warning systems; • collaborating across all levels of government and with existing networks; • incorporating lessons learned into early warning processes; and • developing strict protocols on the timing, use and content of early warnings and advisories.

EV pilot projects

Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy20232. Coordination of e-mobility pilots The multiple electric vehicle pilots should be coordinated to better inform the development of transport policy and infrastructure as well as realise synergies across pilot types. Synergies include project management tasks, government approvals, and importation permits, utility engagement, and support for a charging infrastructure. Options for coordination include harmonisation of all trials as projects under a single programme, or development of an e-mobility strategy which would prioritise technology and locations for trial. Stakeholder consultations included discussion of an expected e-mobility pilot project be developed by VNPF with the support of AFD, with a preliminary business case study to be completed by mid-2023.x

Education and behavior change - General

Voluntary National Review on the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development - VUT2019Proportion of population possessing common and basic traditional production skills related to transport, As of 2017: Transport= 33%

Emissions trading and carbon pricing

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu20230x

Energy efficient vehicle incentives excl. EVs

Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Reform import duties, tariffs and VAT to encourage imports of  energy efficient and renewable energy equipment: Spare parts for vehicles and marine vessels  Energy efficient vehicles x

Environment impact assessment

Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016ensuring that the design and construction of public and other major infrastructure and development projects consider current and projected risks in order to minimise loss and damage, especially by developing and adhering to climate-proofed building codes, environmental impact assessments, regulations and development guidelinesx

Fossil fuel subsidy rationalization

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that do not address energy poverty or just transitions, as soon as possible

Fuel quality improvement

Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016ensuring that national fuel quality standards are enactedxxx

Green aviation program

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu2023solar lighting Airport Improvements - Exploring the options of replacing classic runway lights with LED lights for Port Vila and Tanna - Airports Council International - Carbon Neutral Airport is ongoing. - International Terminal – Lighting upgrade to LEDs - GATIC Drainage for fuel spill off installed – apron area. - Landside car parking upgraded to paid car parking and solar lighting. - Trial exercise for a mini solar farm to be implemented at the NVVV control tower site - Full ADS-B implementation - AVL master plan – has laid out strategic plans for increasing airport land – North of the NVVV (Port Vila) runway for a big solar farm. - Installation of fixed electrical ground power and pre-conditioned air to allow aircraft APU switched off. Regulatory measures/other - Requiring transparent carbon reporting - Conferences and workshopsx

Green roads program

Vanuatu 20302016Improve partnerships and the cost effective use of resources to ensure sustainable asset management and maintenancexxx

Green shipping program

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to continue its engagement with the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership (PBSP) pursuing a commitment of a 100% carbon-free maritime transport sector by 2050, and will establish a policy and regulatory framework for the reduction of GHG in the maritime transport sector and transition all major ports to Green Ports with high resilience.x

Inland waterways (IWT) improvement - General

Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Promote the development of domestic ferry services as an alternative transport mode, where practicable.x

Involvement of subnational government for transport activities

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Strengthen local authorities and municipal institutions to enable decentralised service delivery.

Maritime Safety

Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Ensure that all ports and shipping routes fulfill requirements regarding depth, width, harbour channel markings and other navigational safety items. Ensure that Vanuatu flagged ships and those foreign ships operating in Vanuatu waters operate in accordance with local and international maritime safety, security and environmental protection standards.x

Micromobility - General

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to expanding emissions free and active transport such as safe walking, cycling and micro-mobility through promotion and active facilitation of healthy lifestyles and health-seeking behaviours.x

Net zero, carbon neutrality

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu is already a carbon-negative country

Passenger and freight load limits

Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu Road Traffic (Control)1962The total loading of all vehicles including any articulated vehicles shall not exceed 8 tons per axle, or 24 tons overall, in the absence of special approval from the Director of Public Worksx

Performance-based transport maintenance contracts

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Introducing a range of supporting mechanisms to ensure the Corporate and Divisional plans are implemented, including o Cost-centre reporting that makes each Divisional Manager responsible for expenditure in their area; o Performance-based rewards system within the framework of Public Services rules; o Formalised Performance Management Cycle, with regular reporting and KRIs incorporated into management performance agreements; and o Enhanced executive management understanding of their new roles in a restructured PWD, through training workshops, study tours and mentoring. x

Planning to reduce future vulnerabilities and minimizing losses

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to ensuring that the design and construction of public and other major infrastructure and development projects consider current and projected risks to minimise loss and damage, especially by developing and adhering to climate-proofed building codes, environmental impact assessments, regulations and development guidelines. Vanuatu commits to ensure the delivery of essential services (emergency, security, health, nutrition, education, infrastructure, WASH services, energy, transportation, telecommunications and ICT) to all people affected by climate displacement, including migrants and host communities.
Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016Strengthen risk assessment processes by: • undertaking multi-hazard risk and social risk mapping exercises to inform planning at local, provincial and national levels and involving relevant stakeholders; • utilising the results of risk assessments in designing programmes and projects; • developing and building capacity in the use of risk assessment tools, such as geographic information systems and mobile phone and/or tablet platforms, to ensure consistency and effectiveness; • upgrading the seismic network for earthquake location in Vanuatu; and

Private sector investment/ PPP

MIPU 2020 Corporate Plan2020Involve local communities in infrastructure delivery, maintenance and operations
Vanuatu 20302016Establish effective partnerships that facilitate the development of the private sector and rural communities as service suppliers in the provision of transport and the infrastructure sector

Reference to domestic financing mechanisms

MIPU 2020 Corporate Plan2020Develop sustainable funding mechanisms to support network development and operationsxxx
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Develop disaster response plans and provide a means to deliver recovery funding

Reference to international financial support

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu20230x

Relocation from climate-risk areas

National Policy on Climate Change and Disaster-Induced Displacement2018Ensure transportation considerations are built into relocation plans

Renewable energy

Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016exploring the possibility of powering sea-going vessels and land-based vehicles with renewable energyxx

Reporting, transparency, feedback mechanism

Vanuatu Transport Sector Support Program (VTSSP)n.d.Reporting on program progress will be provided by the Program Management Group to the GfG Management Committee on a six monthly basis. The reporting should cover: • Progress of works against plan; • Expenditure against plan; • Training and transfer of technology (particularly effectiveness); and • Performance of the TA • Contribution towards the results and outcomes indicated in the Results framework for Phase 1 (Annex E).
Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu20230x

Research in transport sector

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu2023Alternative fuel Feasibility study research Join the ICAO ACT-SAF programmex
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Strengthen research, data and statistics for accountability and decision-making.x
Rural Roads Access Framework2013Capacity Building Program. The potential activities will include: (i) technical and operational assistance to MIPU/PWD on project management and implementation; (ii) capacity building for local contracting industry; (iii) specific project activities to create opportunities for women and address the barriers that prevent their participation; (iv) activities to address gender based violence; (v) improving MIPU/PWD staff and contractors understanding and application of occupational health and safety (OHS) measures; and, (vi) abroad study tour for governmental staff to gain knowledge from other countries who have been successful in mainstreaming climate resilience into the road asset management, road maintenance financing and road safety. x

Resilient transport infrastructure

The Vanuatu Government 2nd National Voluntary Review of the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals2024Strengthening Infrastructure: Investing in resilient infrastructure is crucial for enhancing both national and community resilience. This includes upgrading buildings, roads, and bridges to withstand natural disasters such as cyclones and earthquakes. By adopting green and sustainable construction practices, Vanuatu can ensure that its infrastructure not only supports current needs but is also adaptable to future environmental conditions.x

Road infrastructure expansion

Vanuatu Infrastructure Investment Plan2015Review the Infrastructure Master Plan, priorities projects and only construct new roads when economic benefits have been demonstrated. Indicators: Percentage of total VIMP roads constructed and maintainedx
Rural Roads Access Framework2013construction of five wet crossings/bridges to address connectivity issues along South Santo Road – which are exacerbated in the rainy seasonx

Road surfacing

Rural Roads Access Framework2013upgrading of gravel to paved road along the corridor and the feeder roads networkx

Road-side checks for traffic safety enforcement

Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu Road Traffic (Control)1962It is an offence to drive on a public road any vehicle loaded in such a way as to cause danger to the public. x

Routine transport asset maintenance

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017routine and periodic maintenancex

Shipping efficiency improvements

Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016ensuring improvements in the fuel efficiency for the transport sector (land, sea and air) by standardising engine fuel efficiencyx

Shipping improvement - General

Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Promote and develop regular shipping services and related infrastructure as well as a welldefined regulatory framework. Promote Vanuatu as a premier cruise ship destination and ensure the provision of effective support services and related infrastructure as well as a well- defined regulatory framework. Ensure that all ports and shipping routes fulfill requirements regarding depth, width, harbour channel markings and other navigational safety items Ensure the PSC inspection targets are met, currently set at 15% of all ships making a port call, by ensuring that adequate human resources are available. Ensure that appropriate regulations and navigational aids are developed to achieve safe usage of the waterwaysx

Solar energy

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu2023solar lighting Airport Improvementsx

Stakeholder involvement - General

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Improve partnerships and the costeffective use of resources to ensure sustainable asset management and maintenance. Outsource road maintenance and improvement to private contractors and communities

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)

Action Plan for CO2 Emissions Reduction from International Civil Aviation in Vanuatu2023Alternative fuel Feasibility study research Join the ICAO ACT-SAF programmex

Technical standards for general transport infrastructure

Voluntary National Review on the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development - VUT2019Ensure compliance with international conventions and standards for safe and secure transport (SDG Indicators 11.2.1) External audits will be completed to establish compliance with conventions and standards and expose nonconformity. At this time these audits must be scheduled for future implementation.
Vanuatu 20302016Ensure compliance with international conventions and standards for safe and secure transport
Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Ensure that Vanuatu flagged ships and those foreign ships operating in Vanuatu waters operate in accordance with local and international maritime safety, security and environmental protection standards.x

Technical standards for road infrastructure

Vanuatu Transport Sector Support Program (VTSSP)n.d.development of appropriate local technical standards for road worksx
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Build measures to protect the environment into design and construction standards and planning processesx
Public Roads Act No. 35 of 20132013Technical standards established under this section may: be structural standards or geometric standards vary according to road characteristics (including the nature and volume of traffic), and may or may not be related to the public road classification be established for a structure associated with a public road.x

Technology and knowledge transfer

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Develop ICT-systems for financial, asset and human recourse management
Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016implementing activities for measuring effluent at potential pollution sites such as diesel power generation plants and at traffic ways.x

Transport Laws and Regulations- General

Civil Aviation Act2021Civil Aviation Actx
MIPU 2020 Corporate Plan2020Develop policies and strategies that provide clear guidance for network development and operations
Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Promulgate appropriate legislation to govern safe operation of Vanuatu flagged ships worldwide and foreign ships operating in Vanuatu waters, including designation of safe navigation routes and procedures Regularly review and update shipping related legislative frameworks in conformity to Vanuatu's International obligations.
Public Roads Act No. 35 of 20132013PROTECTING THE PUBLIC ROAD Division 1 Regulating Activities 31 Prohibited activities on public roadsx
MARITIME ACT 2011Maritime Actx
Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu Road Traffic (Control)1962LAWS OF THE REPUBLIC OF VANUATU CHAPTER 29 ROAD TRAFFIC (CONTROL)x

Transport access improvement - General

Voluntary National Review on the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development - VUT2019The NSDP focus is on the proportion of population with access to transport by road, sea and air with a target of 100% access by 2030xxx
Rural Roads Access Framework2013construction of five wet crossings/bridges to address connectivity issues along South Santo Road – which are exacerbated in the rainy seasonx

Transport asset management - General

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Implement asset management system Improve partnerships and the costeffective use of resources to ensure sustainable asset management and maintenance.x
Vanuatu Infrastructure Investment Plan2015Properly rehabilitate and maintain the road network Indicator: Percentage of the road network that have been maintained. Ensure adequate maintenance and upgrading of existing domestic airports and airstrips. Indicator: Percentage of total number of airstrips serviceable at standards Maintain and upgrade existing marine infrastructure including storage facilities. Indicators: - Percentage of wharves maintained.x
Rural Roads Access Framework2013mainstreaming climate resilience into the road asset managementx

Transport asset management funding strategy

Vanuatu Infrastructure Investment Plan2015A concept of a ‘Transport Infrastructure Maintenance Fund', as referenced elsewhere in this report, has been developed with Australian assistance in mid-2014, and is being circulated and discussed in GoV.x

Transport asset management technology

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017The development of an integrated and scalable digital platform that integrates, to the fullest extent possible, separate systems such as MIS, HRMIS, FMIS, RAMS x

Transport finance - General

Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Coordinate donor resources to align with national objectives.x

Transport infrastructure modification to reduce climate risks

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to assessing, for all new government infrastructure investments, the “Resilience of Project Assets to Climate Change and Natural Disaster Risk”, and build to high climate change and disaster risk reduction standards, with backup, failover, low vulnerability location, etc.
Rural Roads Access Framework2013coastal protection near Luganville to protect the road; mainstreaming climate resilience into the road asset managementx

Transport institutional reform

Vanuatu Transport Sector Support Program (VTSSP)n.d.improvements to the PWD work planning and budgeting processes and advocate the use of policy and output based budgeting.
Vanuatu Roads for Development Program2017Institutionalise climate change and disaster risk governance, and build institutional capacity and awarenessx
Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Implement measures to attract ship owners to register their vessels in Vanuatu through a vibrant ship registry that is internationally respected and profitablex

Transport international conventions - General

Vanuatu 20302016Ensure compliance with international conventions and standards for safe and secure transport

Vehicle efficiency standards

Vanuatu NDC 3.02025Vanuatu commits to fully implementing and enforcing the Fuel and Vehicle Emission Standards, thereby reducing emissions by 2.9 kt CO₂ eq overallx
Vanuatu Low Emissions Development Strategy2023Introduction of vehicle and fuel efficiency standards Implement complementary vehicle and fuel standards.x
Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Explore options for promoting energy efficiency in the transport sector (including in tourism uses) and develop an action plan for costeffective implementationx
Vanuatu Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction Policy 2016-20302016ensuring improvements in the fuel efficiency for the transport sector (land, sea and air) by standardising engine fuel efficiencyx

Vehicle inspection and maintenance

Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu Road Traffic (Control)1962The following documents shall be submitted to the Minister to effect annual registration renewal of a foreign vehicle – (a) original proof of valid third party insurance; and (b) original certificate of roadworthiness issued by a reputable vehicle inspection garage. x

Vehicle labelling

Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Incorporate MEPS (mandatory standards and labelling system) into Government procurement policies for appliances and vehiclesx

Vehicle roadworthiness laws and regulations

Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu Road Traffic (Control)1962The following documents shall be submitted to the Minister to effect annual registration renewal of a foreign vehicle – (a) original proof of valid third party insurance; and (b) original certificate of roadworthiness issued by a reputable vehicle inspection garage. x

Vehicle taxes

Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-20302016Reform import duties, tariffs and VAT to encourage imports of energy efficient and renewable energy equipment: Spare parts for vehicles and marine vessels Energy efficient vehicles x

Vessel scrappage and retrofit

Vanuatu's National Ocean Policy2016Promote the expansion of ship repair and maintenance activities to support the maritime sector.x

Disclaimer

The Asian Transport Observatory (ATO) project collects, collates, and organizes data from publicly available official, as well as reputable and peer-reviewed secondary sources, which may contain incomplete or inconsistent data. It is important to note that the ATO does not generate data. Changes in the methodologies used in the sources, and changes in the values due to such changes may not necessarily be highlighted in this specific document. Moreover, while the ATO carries out quality control and assurance of whether the data are truthfully reflected in the ATO, the ATO does not make any warranties or representations as to the appropriateness, quality, accuracy, or completeness of the data in the ATO databases, and in the knowledge products that are produced from such. Users are encouraged to scrutinize, verify, interpret, and judge the data before utilizing them. For the profiles, please note that we utilize the 3-letter codes from ISO due to the global nature of some of the figures. All insights are grounded in ATO national, urban, and policy databases. To ensure professional excellence, human-generated texts undergo AI-assisted refinement for grammar and clarity. Editorial judgment and content responsibility remain fully with the ATO, and AI is not used for autonomous content generation.