SICCI and Government strengthen collaboration to address business challenges and advance economic growth in Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), in partnership with key Government ministries, successfully convened the 3rd Private Sector Advisory Committee Meeting on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025.
The meeting marked another step in strengthening strategic cooperation and reinforcing open and constructive dialogue between the Solomon Islands Government and the private sector.
SICCI Chairlady and Co-Chair of the Advisory Group, Ms. Namoi Kaluae, acknowledged the presence of Mr. Riley Mesepitu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, and Mr. Brian Lenga, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Planning, expressing appreciation for their leadership and continued commitment to supporting private sector growth. She noted that the Advisory Committee remains an important platform for high-level partners to address enabling policies, regulatory matters, and key economic growth initiatives.
Ms. Kaluae highlighted the strong partnership and shared determination to support the nation’s economic development, reaffirming that the private sector must remain empowered to create jobs, comply with regulatory frameworks, and sustain the confidence needed to invest and operate effectively in the Solomon Islands. She also acknowledged the Government’s ongoing support through policy dialogue and participation in major private-sector-led programs, including the involvement of Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele during the 14th Australia–Solomon Islands Business Forum in Brisbane.
Reflecting on the year’s achievements, SICCI emphasised the importance of continuing to address systemic challenges faced by businesses. These include progressing tax reforms, improving access to finance, expanding the private sector base, and shifting from identifying constraints—such as VAT readiness and high electricity costs—to achieving concrete, measurable improvements. SICCI reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Government to ensure that outcomes and recommendations from the National Business Forum 2025 and other major engagements are translated into practical actions for the national economy.
During the meeting, SICCI also highlighted the upcoming Solomon Islands–Papua New Guinea Business Investment Forum, scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The Forum aims to deepen trade, investment, and business partnerships between the two countries, offering opportunities for Solomon Islands exporters and strengthening bilateral business connections.
Local content development was a key focus of discussion. SICCI reaffirmed its intention to collaborate with the Government in 2026 to advance a Local Content Policy, which it described as an essential blueprint for national development. The proposed policy would support job creation, promote local enterprise growth, facilitate skill and technology transfer, and increase the participation of Solomon Islanders in major economic projects.
In closing, SICCI stated that the meeting reaffirmed the strength and value of the partnership between the Government and the private sector. The Chamber remains committed to being a steadfast voice for business, ensuring that collaborative efforts continue to translate into policies that foster a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for all Solomon Islanders.
SOURCE : Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry
