Kava is a significant export commodity in Vanuatu, generating an estimated VUV807 million (AUD 10 million) in annual export earnings, and providing income to over 30,000 households across many of the country’s islands. PHAMA’s assistance to the Vanuatu kava industry is aimed at improving quality assurance systems and standards to ensure that market access into Europe and other markets is maintained. This standard is part of PHAMA’s efforts at raising awareness of correct production, processing and storage at all levels of kava production.

PHAMA has developed the Vanuatu National Quality Standard for Kava Exports into a translated version for the benefit of Vanuatu’s Bislama-speaking kava farmers and exporters. The standard is aimed at aimed at improving quality assurance systems and standards to ensure that market access into Europe and other markets is maintained. This standard is also part of PHAMA’s efforts at raising awareness of correct production, processing and storage at all levels of kava production.

This manual contains guidelines for the production and export of kava from Vanuatu. It describes the important steps in production, processing and handling that are necessary for a good quality export product. Information is also included on the chemical properties of kava, the latest knowledge on how to identify different kava varieties and recommended standards