Pinsent Masons MPillay advises Asian Development Bank on funding of submarine cable connecting Vanuatu and New Caledonia

Under the financing arrangement with private Vanuatu company Prima Limited, ADB will provide a US$4.5 million loan and a reimbursable grant of up to US$1.9 million from the ADB’s Asian Development Fund, as well technical assistance on the project.

The submarine cable connecting the two countries – known as the Tamtam project - will be the first in the Asia Pacific region to use Science Monitoring and Reliable Telecommunications (SMART) technology. It will assist the countries to improve communications and strengthen existing natural hazard warning systems.

The cable is expected to be in use by the end of 2027.

The Pinsent Masons MPillay team on the matter was led by Singapore-based project finance partner James Harris and included senior associate Olivia Wang, and associates Kwok Meang Choo and Chris Cheng.

Commenting on the matter, James said: ‘It is very pleasing to once again advise the Asian Development Bank on the funding of projects that are vital to the economic growth of nations across the region. Smart and resilient infrastructure is vital to nation building and this project is a great example of where targeted financing can make a massive impact on the future of multiple nations.’