The Vanuabalavu Expo in Lomaloma, Lau, has received praise from finance provider Merchant Finance Limited. Sakiusa Boletawa, the manager contact centre, noted that the expo presented a valuable market.
“Vanuabalavu stands out due to its current performance and the financial goals of its companies and individuals in the community,” Mr. Boletawa said.
He added, “The event attracted a significant number of people seeking to grow their businesses through additional capital, loans, and investments. Given the interest shown, we will carefully assess these opportunities, especially since we’ve already financed many vehicles and can continue to support more on the outer islands.”
Mr. Boletawa observed that Vanuabalavu Island has a healthy cash flow and was impressed by the financial literacy of its residents.
“We identified other business sectors we could assist, particularly in MSME, with programs like Marama and Vanua Finance aimed at supporting women in small and medium enterprises,” he explained.
“We have substantial financing involved in the transportation sector on Vanuabalavu, including trucks and twin cabs, and we plan to expand this further. The financial records here support a strong interest in investments, offering a vast market we can assist.”
In addition to financial advice, Merchant Finance also engaged with students from Adi Moapa Secondary School to discuss career paths.