Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Kiribati.
Kiribati is a remote Pacific island nation consisting of 33 coral atolls scattered across the equator. Known for pristine beaches, world-class diving, significant WWII history sites, and being among the first places on Earth to see the sunrise, this tropical paradise offers an authentic, unhurried island experience far from mass tourism.
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Hand-woven mats made from dried pandanus leaves using traditional I-Kiribati techniques. Each mat features intricate geometric patterns unique to the island of origin and takes weeks to complete.
Functional and beautiful baskets woven from pandanus leaves, used for carrying produce and storing goods. Available in various sizes with traditional coloured stripe patterns.
Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets crafted from cowrie shells, trochus shells, and coral beads. Traditional I-Kiribati shell jewellery has been worn for centuries and makes a lightweight keepsake.
A replica of the traditional I-Kiribati weapon crafted from coconut wood studded with shark teeth. Authentic antiques are in museums, but quality replicas are made by local craftsmen for tourists.
Brightly coloured cotton sarongs with Pacific and I-Kiribati motifs including frigatebirds, fish, and traditional patterns. Practical in the tropical heat and a colourful reminder of island life.
Miniature carved replicas of the traditional te wa outrigger canoe, the vessel that connected Pacific island communities for millennia. Carved from local hardwood by skilled craftsmen in South Tarawa.
Locally produced coconut oil, dried coconut chips, and coconut soap made from Kiribati's most abundant resource. These natural products make practical gifts with genuine island provenance.
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
The largest and most vibrant market in Kiribati, where local fishermen bring fresh catches of tuna, wahoo, and reef fish every morning. Stalls sell tropical fruit, breadfruit, taro, pandanus products, shell jewellery, and woven handicrafts.
A busy central market popular with local government workers and shoppers. Women vendors sell cooked meals, fresh fruit, vegetables, and small household goods. The adjacent food stalls serve authentic I-Kiribati lunches at very low prices.
A quieter neighbourhood market near the national museum. Sells imported canned goods, local produce, household items, and occasional handicrafts. Good place to buy bottled water and supplies for day trips.
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Where to find different types of shops.
The commercial heart of South Tarawa with the main market, small general stores, hardware shops, and street food vendors. The most authentic shopping experience in Kiribati with everything from fresh fish to woven mats.
The area around Bairiki has small general stores, pharmacies, mobile phone shops, and the best selection of imported goods. The Women's Federation cooperative shop sells genuine handicrafts at fair prices.
Quieter area near the national museum with a small supermarket-style store, gift items, and general goods. Convenient for shoppers staying in the eastern part of South Tarawa.
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Kiribati has no shopping malls or department stores. Shopping is conducted at local markets, small general stores (often Chinese-run), and the Women's Federation cooperative. Bring essential personal items from home as selection is very limited.
Several larger general stores in Betio function as the closest equivalent to a department store in Kiribati. These stores stock imported Australian goods, clothing, electronics, canned food, and household items at relatively high prices due to import costs.
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Prices at Kiribati markets are generally fixed for produce and food — do not try to bargain aggressively
For handicrafts and large items (mats, baskets), polite negotiation is acceptable if buying multiple items
Ask 'Can you do a better price for two?' rather than making low counter-offers, which can cause offence
Building rapport first — greeting warmly in Gilbertese ('Ko na mauri!') — often leads to better deals
General stores have fixed prices; markets and craft sellers have more flexibility
Australian dollars and US dollars are both widely accepted; having correct change is appreciated
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Cannot export traditional artefacts, coral, sea turtle products, or certain shells without official permits. Live animals and plants require quarantine clearance. Check Australian, NZ, or destination country biosecurity rules before buying organic materials.
No GST or VAT tax refund scheme operates in Kiribati.
Duty-free allowances upon departure: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 1.125L spirits, A$900 in goods. Check your home country import allowances for shells and crafts.
International shipping is extremely limited and expensive from Kiribati. Most items are small enough to carry as luggage. Contact hotels for advice on shipping larger items such as mats.
Get our complete shopping guide with bargaining phrases, quality assessment tips, and budget planner.
Download Shopping Guide