BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Chairman of the National Trade Fair, Moses Waririu said the revival of the fair stands as a symbol of the government’s commitment in building resilient local industries.

He was speaking at the opening of the trade fair (yesterday) Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

Waririu expressed that fair has brought together government ministries, the private sector and locals.

“This national Trade fair stands as a firm reaffirmation of our government’s commitment to rebuilding resilient local industries, investing in downstream processing and moving beyond the outdated model of exporting raw materials,” he said.

Waririu stressed that the country’s future lies in producing, branding and exporting value-added Solomon Island products by Solomon Islanders.

He also emphasised that transformation requires all stakeholders to work together.

“These transformations cannot be achieved by the government alone, that’s why we acknowledged and commend the private sector, our hardworking entrepreneurs, our small and medium enterprises and industry leaders, who are the engine of growth and innovation,” he said.

Waririu pointed out that participants of the revived fair are partners in driving national transformation.

He also commended the growing trend of women and youth in trade and enterprise.

“Your creativity, resilience, energy, are leading a new wave of inclusion and sustainable development”, he said.

Waririu acknowledged that the trade fair aligns with the GNUT’s policy priorities and the broader national development strategy, which aims to stimulate inclusive economic growth, strengthen our rural livelihood and modernize our trade, agriculture and productive systems.

“Let us all work together to revive and expand on our productive sector, particularly in agriculture, fisheries, tourism and local manufacturing. This includes supporting our value- adding initiative, developing critical infrastructure, enhancing export potential and reviving institutions like seminars, raising our country’s commodities to ensure real market access for our rural commodities,” Waririu concluded.

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PNG sensation, Moqai to perform tomorrow to support diabetic clinic

BY CHRIS ALEX

Popular Papua New Guinean artist Moqai will perform live in Honiara on Friday, July 4 in a special fundraising concert to support the diabetic clinic in Honiara.

Visiting Solomon Islands for the first time, he says he is excited to perform for a new audience while contributing to an important cause.

“The show is mainly to raise funds for the diabetic clinic in Honiara. This is my first time in Solomon Islands and I’m truly honoured to be here,” he said.

The event is organized by Cow Boys Grill in partnership with our own music legend Sharzy.

Moqai said he flew directly after a recent tour in Queensland to Honiara specifically for this event.

“I just finished a show in Queensland and flew over here to be part of this initiative. It’s more than a concert — it’s about helping the community,” he added.

Moqai has also issued a heartfelt call to his friends, family and fans in Honiara to come out and support the show, not only for the music but to stand behind a cause that affects many Solomon Islanders.

The fundraising concert is expected to draw a large crowd, with local artists also scheduled to perform in support of the event.

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BY NED GAGAHE

Minister for Commerce, Labour, Industry and Immigration (MCILI) Jamie Vokia MP has called on Solomon Islanders attending the 2025 National Trade Fair to connect, collaborate and seize opportunities throughout the weeklong event.

Delivering his remarks during the official opening ceremony held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the SINU FOPA Village, East Honiara, he described the trade fair as a “powerful catalyst” for rebuilding, revitalizing and redefining transformative prosperity in the country.

“This fair is a leading showcase of that transformation. Look around you, you will see this incredible diversity of ours. From fresh organic produce nurtured in our fertile soil, to exquisite handcrafts whispering tales of our ancestral skills, to innovative services and technologies shaping our future,” Vokia said.

He said the vibrant stalls, each with unique colours and stories, represent dreams nurtured, skills honed, families sustained and communities strengthened.

“Trade is building resilience from the ground up. Rebuilding is more than infrastructure, it’s about empowering Solomon Islanders and sustaining livelihoods,” the Minister said.

He also acknowledged the vital partnership that made the event possible, involving government ministries, the private sector, academic institutions like SINU and the wider community.

“To our sponsors, on behalf of the Ministry, we salute you this morning. Your investment in this program is an investment in Solomon Islands’ future,” Vokia said.

Minister Vokia further paid tribute to entertainers participating in the event, saying their performances add the rhythm and soul of the Happy Isles to the celebration.

He issued a rallying call to attendees to make the most of the next seven days.

“I want you to explore, engage and purchase. Immerse yourself in the goodness available on the ground. Connect and collaborate, forge new partnerships, share knowledge and find synergies,” he urged.

“Let this fair be a marketplace not just for goods, but for ideas and opportunity,” he added.

The minister concluded by encouraging participants to carry the spirit of the trade fair back to their communities and become ambassadors of change and innovation.

The 2025 National Trade Fair continues at FOPA Village and will run until July 10 as part of the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

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By CHRIS ALEX

Tandai’s Paramount Chief Peter Sehelivere, delivered the official welcome remarks at the opening of the 2025 Annual National Trade Fair in Honiara on Wednesday, July 2 2025.

Proudly representing the five tribes of the Tandai House of Chiefs, he extended a heartfelt welcome to all attendees, including representatives from all nine provinces of Solomon Islands, government officials, exhibitors and visitors.

“I stand here on behalf of the five tribes of the Tandai House of Chiefs to welcome you all to the official opening of this event. This event will bring unity, love, respect and togetherness to the people of the nine provinces of Solomon Islands,” said Sehelivere.

He commended the government’s role in making the event possible, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele and his Cabinet Ministers for their continued support.

“On behalf of the Tandai House of Chiefs, I want to thank the Prime Minister and Ministers for making this happen and I hope this will continue for 20 more years,” he said.

He concluded his address by emphasising the importance of national identity and unity.

“This shows our identity as we are one people of Solomon Islands,” he concluded.

The national trade fair is a platform to showcase local products, culture and innovation while strengthening bonds among communities and driving economic collaboration across the nation.

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By NED GAGAHE

Minister for Commerce, Labour, Industries and Immigration (MCILI), Jamie Vokia, says this year’s National Trade Fair presents an unique opportunity to witness the latest trends and innovations in Solomon Islands’ business landscape.

Speaking during the official opening, which commenced on Wednesday this week, July 2, 2025, Minister Vokia said the event serves as a vital platform for businesses to display new products, showcase technology, stimulate healthy competition and drive innovation across various industries.

“This fair is an opportunity for you to witness the best of what our local industries have to offer. It provides a stage for businesses to enhance their visibility and brand recognition at the national level, building consumer trust and expanding market reach,” he said.

“This variety has contributed significantly to consumer satisfaction,” Minister Vokia added.

He pointed out that beyond commerce, the trade fair is also promoting cultural heritage.

“Visitors will have the chance to explore traditional crafts and practices, helping to strengthen community identity and pride. This week is not just about trade—it’s about community, tradition and dialogue,” he said.

Minister Vokia also highlighted the importance of using the trade fair as a platform to discuss industry regulations, standards, and policies.

“This event gives our business community a voice. It’s an opportunity to shape the future of different sectors by engaging in meaningful conversations,” he said.

The 2025 National Trade Fair continues this week as part of the lead-up to the 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations and will conclude on July 10.

Throughout the week, the trade fair is expected to draw large crowds to the FOPA Village, offering a wide range of products and services.

Consumers will have the opportunity to enjoy greater variety, better service and opportunities for discounted prices.

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National Trade Fair 2025 is back after more than a decade bringing together culture and economy

BY NED GAGAHE

The National Trade Fair 2025 officially opened on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at the FOPA Village, marking the return of one of the Solomon Islands’ most iconic economic and cultural events.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele was given the honour to officially declare the 2025 National Trade Fair open.

The revival comes after a decade-long break, with the theme, “Trade for Transformation-Rebuilding Our Happy Isles”.

The weeklong celebration of enterprise and innovation kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony, attended by the Prime Minister where he was greeted by traditional warriors.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), government ministers, guests from the private sector and donor partners.

In his keynote address, Prime Minister Manele said the event plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, strengthening community bonds and instilling a sense of national pride.

He said the theme unites Solomon Islands and underscores the country’s commitment to building a brighter future together.

“Let us embrace this opportunity to foster innovation, collaboration and progress in our country. While we face formidable challenges in our journey forward in economic recovery and sustainable development, there are also opportunities ahead.

“I think it is now, after 11 years, that we can revive and revitalize the National Trade Fair. And let’s keep it going,” he said.

Hosted by MCILI in partnership with SINU, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the business community, the trade fair is part of the lead-up to the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations on July 7.

The event will run until July 10, bringing together government ministries, private sector organizations and business houses.

The Trade Fair was once a flagship event in the 1990s, often held at Townground alongside Independence week celebrations.

It attracted thousands and a vital platform for businesses to showcase products, connect with customers and contribute to the festive national spirit. However, the event was discontinued after 2014—until now.

MCILI Minister Jamie Vokia referred to the event as a “powerful catalyst” to enhance, rebuild, revitalize and redefine transformative prosperity in the nation.

He said the fair is a leading showcase of that transformation.

“This event is not just about bringing back a popular event. It’s about creating a platform to support local entrepreneurs, boost economic activity and reconnect our people through trade, culture and innovation,” he said.

This year’s fair aligns with GNUT’s Policy Statement 2.1.6 under MCILI, which focuses on strengthening the private sector through the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

It also reflects the MCILI Corporate Plan 2025, which outlines goals to promote fair trade, support local exporters and increase the visibility of Solomon Islands products in domestic and international markets.

The FOPA Village has come alive with vibrant displays, food, cultural performances and business showcases.

Participants from across sectors are engaging in exhibitions and interactive events that highlight the diversity and resilience of the Solomon Islands’ economy.

The 2025 Trade Fair is part of a broader strategy of GNUT to stimulate economic diversification, generate employment and empower local communities through entrepreneurship.

“The trade show used to be a key part of our national celebrations. Seeing it come back this way gives us hope and a chance to grow,” said one local business owner.

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