Business Services

What are the different sources you can seek funds from?

1. Commercial Banks

The main Commercial Banks in Vanuatu are:

• National Bank of Vanuatu (NBV): https://www.nbv.vu
• BRED: https://www.bred.vu
• ANZ: https://www.anz.com/vanuatu/en/personal/
• BSP: https://www.bsp.com.vu
• Wanfuteng: https://www.wanfutengbank.com/en/

Most banks/ financial lending businesses will require the following details:

• Proof of employment (Employment confirmation letter)
• Proof of identity (VNPF card/Passport/Birth Certificate)
• Recent Bank Statement – minimum 3 months
• 3 Latest payslips (if applicable)

What packages do banks offer?

Commercial banks generally offer a selection of business loans depending on the purpose of the loan. The type of business loan will also vary across banks.

These will have different requirements and offer different benefits and features.

An example of a package a commercial bank can offer is listed below. This package is offered by NBV:

NBV Micro finance Loan

The NBV microfinance loan is a special loan designed to support small and micro-enterprises in rural areas. Your custom chief - who knows you and your business - acts as your 'sponsor' by recommending you to NBV's microfinance officer.

This package targets existing ni-Vanuatu businesses. Loans can be used to buy equipment, agriculture machinery or stock. More information can be obtained from microfinance officers posted at most NBV branches around the country.

It is important you choose the right loan/package for your business financial goals. For more information, visit a customer service representative at your bank.

What documents do banks need for your application

Banks will need the following documents:

• Completed Loan application form
• Customer Identification (usually several forms of ID are required)
• Confirmation of employment (employment letter)
• 3 latest payslips
• 3 to 6 months of bank statements
• Proof of address (Utility bill)

Some banks may require additional information. Contact your bank for more information.

2. Micro-lending businesses:

There are various micro-lending businesses in Vanuatu, although many of them offer very high interest rates (around 20%). Micro-lending is popular in Vanuatu as many working people and average income earners have very limited or no access to loans provided by commercial banks, financial institutions or even other micro lending businesses. Some micro-lending businesses are more reputable than others, so it is important to do your due diligence such as checking the micro-lending business is a registered entity with the VFSC and hold a valid business license.

3. VNPF Commercial Loan

A commercial loan has the characteristic of a normal loan except that is an arrangement between a business and a financial institution. 

The VNPF is a Financial Institution therefore they can provide loans with terms beyond 2 years but not more than 15 years and they only give loans to Semi Government and Corporate Entities.

What is micro insurance?

Micro insurance is a type of insurance that looks to aid small businesses by offering insurance plans tailored to their needs.

Why is it beneficial?

Micro insurance provide insurance products that offer quality protection with value pricing. It can help protect people's livestock, crops, protect them against natural disasters, and help to grow their businesses.

What micro insurance packages are available and how much does it cost?

VanCare (www.vancare.com.vu) introduced a micro insurance package that offers the benefits of having both life and non-life insurance covers. The product will be sold primarily via the private sector, allowing employees to cope with a range of events that can cause financial shocks.

How do I apply for one and what documents do I need?

To apply for micro insurance through VanCare, you must contact a VanCare representative. More details can be found here: http://www.vancare.com.vu/Pages/MicroInsurance

Level 2, Bayview House,
Kumul Highway,
Port Vila.
Email: lemeki@vancare.com.vu
Tel: 24114

How can on-line marketing and marketplaces benefit my business?

Online marketing benefits businesses of all sizes by giving access to the mass market at an affordable price. Unlike TV or print advertising, it allows complete personalized marketing. The main advantage of digital marketing is that a targeted audience can be reached in a cost-effective and measurable way. Other digital marketing advantages include increasing brand loyalty and driving online sales.

How to they work?

An online marketplace connects a buyer and seller through a distributor's website or phone application. Online marketplaces act as middlemen, bringing together buyers and sellers to conduct transactions. Buyers get a choice in what they would like to buy, and sellers get a variety of customers to sell to.

What are some of the on-line markets I can use?

There are currently no online marketplace platforms available in Vanuatu. However, many businesses choose to create a Facebook Page for their business.

Pages are places on Facebook where artists, businesses, brands, organizations and non-profits can connect with their customers. When someone likes or follows a Page on Facebook, they can start seeing updates from that Page in their News Feed.

For more information, click here:

https://web.facebook.com/pages/create/?ref_type=registration_form&_rdc=1&_rdr