As of 2026, Vanuatu's fiber optic networks cover approximately 65% of urban areas, with ongoing expansion projects and international subsea cable connections enhancing broadband capacity and reliability.

Fiber Optic Infrastructure

Vanuatu's fiber optic connectivity is anchored by the Interchange Cable Network, which links Port Vila to Suva, Fiji, via a high-capacity subsea fiber optic cable, increasing the nation's bandwidth by over 200 times compared to previous capacity and allowing future upgrades as demand grows . Interchange Limited plans additional cables connecting Port Vila to the Solomon Islands (with a spur to Espiritu Santo) and New Caledonia (with a spur to Tanna), further strengthening regional connectivity . These projects are critical for supporting high-speed internet, e-commerce, and digital services.

Broadband Coverage

By 2026, fiber optic networks cover about 65% of urban areas, with government and private sector initiatives aiming to reach 80% coverage by 2028 . Mobile internet remains dominant, particularly in rural areas, but fiber deployment is improving speed and reliability, with average broadband speeds reaching 45 Mbps, doubling since 2022 . The Telecommunications Radiocommunications and Broadcasting Regulator (TRBR) reports that mobile data coverage has increased to 86.2%, while mobile voice coverage reaches 98.8% of the population .

Services and Access

Vanuatu's fiber-to-the-home (FTTh) technology allows ISPs to offer flexible bandwidth options ranging from 1 Mbps to 10 Gbps, including shared internet via Fibre Lite or National Leased Line (NLL) contracts . The government also supports public access initiatives, such as the HALO free Wi-Fi service, powered by Interchange Limited, to improve digital inclusion .

Challenges and Future Plans

Rural areas still face connectivity challenges due to geographic terrain, population distribution, and infrastructure limitations . Ongoing investments focus on bridging the urban-rural digital divide, expanding fiber optic coverage, and enhancing international connectivity through subsea cables, which will support economic growth, education, health services, and e-governance . Vanuatu's broadband and fiber optic expansion reflects a strong commitment to becoming a more connected nation, leveraging both terrestrial and subsea infrastructure to meet growing digital demands.