Forex trading is legal in Vanuatu and operates under a well-established regulatory framework overseen by the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission. The VFSC was established in 1993 to regulate the financial services industry, issue forex broker licenses, supervise licensed companies, protect investors, and monitor compliance with anti-money laundering regulations (1). Forex activity without a license is strictly prohibited in Vanuatu, and brokers must fulfill specific requirements to operate legally within the jurisdiction.
The Reserve Bank of Vanuatu also plays a crucial role in the country's forex market operations through its Financial Markets Department. The Financial Markets Department is responsible for implementing the Reserve Bank's operations in domestic and foreign exchange markets, monitoring developments in domestic and international financial markets, and ensuring the country's foreign reserves are managed within parameters of preservation of capital, liquidity and profitability (2). The department maintains relationships with counterparty financial institutions and brokers while overseeing foreign exchange operations and international reserve holdings.
"The Financial Markets Department is responsible for implementing the Reserve Bank's operations in domestic and foreign exchange markets, monitoring developments in domestic and international financial markets."
Forex brokers operating in Vanuatu must obtain a Financial Dealers License under the Financial Dealers Licensing Act, which prescribes requirements including capital adequacy, fit and proper qualifications for directors and shareholders, and compliance with anti-money laundering regulations (1). The VFSC regularly issues public notices regarding license revocations and regulatory updates to maintain market integrity. Both retail traders and institutional investors can access forex trading services in Vanuatu through properly licensed dealers, benefiting from the jurisdiction's transparent regulatory environment and investor protection measures.
Source:
https://www.vfsc.vu/public-notices/
https://www.rbv.gov.vu/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=30%3Aabout-market-operations&catid=8&lang=en-GB
Last updated: 15-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
