MMERE drives mining reforms in Solomon Islands to boost governance, safety, and economic growth in emerging sector
Honiara, Solomon Islands – The National Government through the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) is driving major reforms to maximise benefits from the country’s emerging mining industry.
Key reforms include modernising the mining legal framework, with the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 under review. Drafting instructions are complete for General Regulations, Occupational Health & Safety Regulations, and Community Development Agreement Regulations.
Other initiatives currently undertaken by the Ministry include the Strategic Environmental and Social Governance (SESA), the Mining Sector Policy Framework Development, the Fiscal and Revenue Policy Reform, the Mine Health, Safety and Environmental Regulation Framework, the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy, and the Mineral Pricing and Economic Policy Instruments.
“The Mining Industry is now an emerging economic lifeline of our country,” said the Permanent Secretary, Dr Chris Vehe.
These reforms aim to improve governance, transparency, and safety standards in the mining sector.
“Most key outputs are now in advanced stages of review, consultation, or drafting, with a significant number scheduled for Cabinet noting between April and May 2026,” Dr Vehe said.
The Ministry is positioning the sector for full regulatory transformation, driving economic growth and development.
SOURCE; GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION UNIT
