Copyright dailypost
The Cocomo Resort in Port Vila has unveiled its new conference, enhancing its appeal to business travellers and further boosting tourism in Vanuatu Its opening was attended by senior government officials, business leaders, and industry stakeholders, celebrating not just a new facility but also a shared vision for the future of tourism. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Johnny Koanapo, expressed the government’s full support for continued private sector investment in the country. He also acknowledged the efforts of Cocomo Resort’s leadership. “Let me thank you, Chairman Lee and Mr. Alvin, for your continued commitment. I remember our early discussions in Hong Kong about advancing Cocomo to another level in tourism development. Today, I am proud to see those visions become a reality,” said Koanapo. The deputy PM emphasised that the government remains committed to providing policy support and incentives to encourage such investments. “These developments not only create jobs for our people but also contribute significantly to government revenue. The government welcomes and supports investments like this with open arms,” he added. Mr. Alvin Yeo Director MG Group expressed gratitude to all partners and guests for their support. He highlighted the completion of Phase 1 of the resort’s development, which includes new conference and private dining rooms, multi-function halls, beachfront villas, and a theme park for children. “This development is a testimony to our commitment to excellence,” he said. “Phase 2 will expand the resort with a new three-storey building, adding 45 luxurious two-bedroom suites to bring the total to 74 rooms.” Yeo also announced the addition of two new tourist buses under AIP (A Venture in Paradise) and the upcoming Stage Bakery and Café, set to open in downtown Port Vila in January 2026. “We are determined to elevate Cocomo Resort to a premier destination that contributes to Vanuatu’s tourism sector. We are not just transforming a location — we are building a future,” he added. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO), Adela Aru, congratulated Cocomo Resort on its new facilities and reaffirmed the strong partnership between the government and the private sector. Aru noted that the collaboration between VTO and MG Global dates back to 2019, focusing on promoting Vanuatu in the Asian tourism market. “The Asian market is an important emerging segment for Vanuatu. In 2024, 46 percent of visitors were from Asia, and we expect this number to grow to 4,000 by 2025,” she explained. The event also featured a signing ceremony between VTO and MG Global Enterprise, formally renewing their partnership to promote Vanuatu tourism in key Asian markets such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. Koanapo confirmed the government’s continued support for Cocomo Resort’s development. “The government has issued a letter granting tax exemptions to Cocomo Resort for tourism development investments. These exemptions cover construction materials, furniture, leisure equipment, and boats — supporting new projects not just here, but also in Melepe and other proposed sites,” he said.
