The economy of Vanuatu is built on agriculture, tourism, offshore financial services, and cattle raising. There is substantial fishing activity although this industry doesn’t bring in much foreign exchange. Exports include copra, kava, beef, cocoa, and timber, and imports include machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, and fuels. Vanuatu is a tax haven, and offshore financing in Port Vila is an important part of the economy. Vanuatu is still dependent on foreign aid, most of which comes from Australia and New Zealand, although in recent years aid has also come from the People’s Republic of China.
Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu. Port Vila is the economic and commercial centre of Vanuatu. Port Vila is Vanuatu’s most important harbour and the centre of the country’s trade. The international airport, Bauerfield International (VLI) is also located in the city. Major industries in the city remain agriculture and fishing. Tourism is also becoming important, especially from Australia and New Zealand.
Port Vila has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.
The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.
Expatriate International Cost of Living 