PM Manele opens 2025 National Trade Fair, promoting trade as a pathway to inclusive and sustainable development.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele officially opened the 2025 National Trade Fair today, describing the event as an important platform for economic development, community engagement, and the promotion of national products. Held under the theme “Trade for Transformation – Rebuilding the Happy Isles,” the fair reflects ongoing efforts by the Solomon Islands to support inclusive and sustainable growth.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Manele said the Trade Fair is more than a commercial event—it represents the country’s collective capacity, innovation, and resilience. He stressed that trade is not solely about the exchange of goods and services, but also about creating opportunities, building connections between communities, and strengthening national identity.
“This year’s theme calls on us to transform not only our economy but also the way we think about progress—by placing sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience at the core,” he said.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the social and economic challenges still facing the country and encouraged citizens to focus on creating opportunities in areas where they may be limited. “If there may be limited opportunities, let us work towards creating opportunities for ourselves — and the National Trade Fair is one such opportunity,” he said.
He explained that the Trade Fair aligns with the Government of National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) economic transformation pillar and supports Objective 1 of the National Development Strategy, which aims for sustained and inclusive economic growth. The fair is also seen as a means to promote locally made goods and services, develop small and medium-sized enterprises, and increase visibility of Solomon Islands’ products in both domestic and regional markets.
The 2025 Trade Fair brings together producers, entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators across sectors such as agriculture, handicrafts, tourism, technology, and public services.
“This Trade Fair is a platform for forging connections, bridging communities, opening market pathways, and promoting local talent and enterprise,” Prime Minister Manele said.
He also reaffirmed the importance of supporting women in business, youth entrepreneurs, and rural artisans, stating that their contributions are essential to building a strong and inclusive economy.
“It’s about enabling our women in business, our youth, and our artisans to find their voice, space, and market,” he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to improving business conditions through infrastructure development, increased access to finance, digital transformation, and regulatory reform to reduce barriers for local enterprises.
“Together, we can make it easier for our local businesses to thrive and compete successfully,” he stated.
He acknowledged the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the National Trade Fair Committee, and development partners for their roles in organising the 2025 Trade Fair. He also commended the private sector for its innovation and continued engagement in economic recovery efforts.
In closing, Prime Minister Manele encouraged all Solomon Islanders to support local businesses beyond the event itself and to see trade as a tool for long-term national development.
“Through trade, we share our stories. Through our private sector and small businesses, we grow our economy and shape our future,” he said. “This is about more than trade—it’s about national progress, identity, and opportunity.”
SOURCE: PMO PRESS RELEASE
