Chinese authorities uncovered an alleged gambling operation inside Vanuatu's Consulate General in Guangzhou that ran from January to April 2025. According to a letter from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a criminal group set up gaming tables, equipment and chips on consular premises and recruited visitors to participate.
On 15 September 2025, China sent a formal note to Vanuatu's embassy in Beijing demanding an explanation for how consular premises were used as a gambling venue and asking the government to establish whether officials were involved. The letter cited obligations under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which bars the use of consular premises for purposes incompatible with consular functions.
The case triggered political controversy in Vanuatu. The opposition filed a complaint with the ombudsman alleging that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs received the Chinese letter but failed to respond for an extended period. It also raised questions about consul general Jacques Himford, who was suspended and later reinstated. No formal charges have been filed against Himford or other consulate staff.
The ombudsman's office confirmed it received the complaint and is assessing whether to launch a full investigation. Vanuatu's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the matter was resolved in 2025 but did not disclose when it replied to China or what action was taken.
