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Vanuatu Bijouterie, one of Vanuatu’s premier jewellery exporters, showcased its distinctive Melanesian jewellery collections at the World Expo 2025 held in Japan, gaining international recognition for its craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The Vanuatu Pavilion provided a unique platform for the business to present pieces featuring bejewelled tusks, traditional tamtam designs, and Lapita-inspired patterns, all crafted from locally sourced gemstones, gold, and silver. Owner of Vanuatu Bijouterie, Estelle Milfirer, said the Expo was a very good experience, and they are grateful for the exposure it gave Vanuatu Bijouterie. “Since the event, we have seen more visitors to our website and received kind recognition from our Japanese peers for the quality and cultural value of our work,” she said. While the event brought significant visibility, Milfirer highlighted ongoing challenges for Vanuatu exporters. Shipping delays and high production costs make it difficult to compete in fast-moving Asian markets. “Shipping from Vanuatu currently takes 1–3 weeks, while other countries can deliver in just a few days. Combined with the high costs of electricity, materials, and the need to secure qualified and reliable workers, this affects our competitiveness,” she explained. Despite these challenges, Vanuatu Bijouterie remains optimistic about the potential for growth. Milfirer emphasized the importance of showcasing the story behind Vanuatu jewellery, improving export logistics, and exploring ways to support local producers. Key achievements at the Expo includes Strong interest and appreciation from Japanese peers, Increased website traffic and recognition for Vanuatu Bijouterie, Successful showcase of culturally significant jewellery designs Looking ahead, Vanuatu Bijouterie aims to continue promoting Melanesian craftsmanship globally, while advocating for better export support and production efficiencies to turn international recognition into sustainable business growth.
