A SKINCARE product developed on the output-constrained nation of Tuvalu has become the first commercial export since 2002 two decades, with a helping hand from Neptune Pacific.
The South Pacific shipping specialist says it has served Tuvalu for over two decades, often as the only carrier to call the remote nation, located midway between Australia and Hawaii and with a population of only around 10,000.
“While Tuvalu's tiny sandy atoll islands limit large-scale production, local innovation and international collaboration have helped create a new export opportunity,” Neptune Pacific says.
“With technical support from a UK-based development consultancy, a local team has developed Fenua Ola, a small-batch premium skincare range made from extra-virgin coconut oil. The product name ‘Fenua Ola’ – means living land, representing the connection between the coconut the skincare is made of, and its Tuvalu home.
“Neptune Pacific has supported the initiative from the very beginning, transporting the raw materials required for packaging, labelling and production, and working alongside the six-person Fenua Ola team to ensure all documentation and cargo were prepared for export.
“On 27 June 2026, Tuvalu held a ceremony to hand over Fenua Ola’s first export of goods to Neptune Pacific. The shipment marks a historic milestone for the island nation, with Fenua Ola becoming Tuvalu's first commercial export since 2002.”
Andrew Jacque, agricultural policy ddvisor, who supported the company’s development, said Neptune Pacific's involvement was instrumental in helping bring the project to life.
“Given Tuvalu’s remote location and shipping complexities, this collaboration played a significant role in Fenua Ola’s success and sets a strong foundation for future Tuvalu exports.”
Fenua Ola emerged from efforts to revitalise Tuvalu's coconut industry through the Tuvalu Coconut Rehabilitation Programme, led by the Government of Tuvalu with financial support from the European Union. The program aims to both restore coconut production and to create greater economic value from coconut-based products – which Fenua Ola has succeeded in doing.
For Lauti Bici, chief executive of Tama Tuvalu Pty Ltd, Fenua Ola’s manufacturer, seeing the first shipment of precious cargo depart aboard Neptune Pacific’s vessel was a proud moment.
“The successful launch of Fenua Ola's first shipment is a testament to the progress achieved through vision, perseverance, and partnership.
“Our collaboration with Neptune Pacific strengthens our journey towards sustainable growth and reinforces Tuvalu's commitment to resilience, innovation, and opportunity in the face of climate and economic challenges."
To commemorate the milestone, Neptune Pacific provided freight free of charge for Fenua Ola’s first export, transporting 2,102 units of skincare from Funafuti to Auckland in June.
Jason Ward, owner’s representative for Neptune Pacific, said supporting trade and economic growth across the region was central to the company’s purpose.
“Operating shipping services in remote parts of the South Pacific is about more than moving cargo," he said.
"It's also about helping local businesses access new markets and opportunities. "We're invested in the long-term success of the communities we serve because we're part of them too."