BY LORETTA B MANELE

In a time of trade tensions creating uncertainty and changing trade dynamics across the world, the Pacific must support a multilateral rule based economic system.

Collin Beck, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) voiced the above whilst speaking at the opening of the 8th meeting of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus Joint Committee, May 5-6 at Mendana Hotel yesterday.

In his remarks, he acknowledged the attendance of all participating countries.

Beck expressed that their presence is a testament to our shared commitment to strengthening regional integration, trade and advancing sustainable economic development across the Pacific.

“It is both an honour and privilege for Solomon Islands to host and chair this gathering at this critical juncture as we come near to the end of the first 5 years of implementation of the agreement.”

Beck went on to state that they are also at a time when trade tensions are creating uncertainty and changing trade dynamics, order and relations across the world.

“The Pacific has not been spared. This is a time when the region must stand up for multilateralism, support a multilateral rule based economic system.”

Beck stressed that they must advocate for dialogue over unilateralism, cooperation over confrontation and mutual respect over coercion and intimidation.

He highlighted that the PACER Plus Agreement envisioned as a pathway toward deepening economic integration across the Blue Pacific Continent by creating a predictable and rules- based trade environment and by unlocking targeted development assistance through the Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) Work Programme.

Beck added that since the agreement came into force on Dec 2020, they have laid the foundation for economic cooperation.

He pointed out that they however must question themselves a bold question of whether or not they are realizing the full promise of PACER Plus and if not, what are the reasons for it.

Beck furthered that what they need to do is to connect the dots.

He also noted that the current five-year Implementing Arrangement and its DEC (Development and Economic Cooperation) Work Programme is scheduled to conclude in December 2025.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), has launched a SBD$2.26 million revolving fund to support the cocoa and coconut industries across the country.

The initiative reflects the GNUT government’s strong commitment to strengthening the agriculture sector and improving rural livelihoods.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele reaffirmed his government’s dedication to empowering local farmers and traders, enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Solomon Islands’ cocoa and coconut products.

He said the fund is designed to boost export volumes while contributing to the nation’s economic diversification and sustainable development goals.

“As part of this commitment, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has launched a $2.26 million revolving fund to support traders involved in the cocoa and coconut industries,” PM Manele said.

“This initiative is a key element of our broader strategy to stimulate agricultural exports and empower rural communities.

“The fund has been allocated to 57 successful applicants across all nine provinces, including cocoa and copra buyers, exporters, and transport service providers—ensuring support at every stage of the value chain, from production to market,” he said.

The Prime Minister explained that the fund operates as a soft loan with minimal interest. Recipients are expected to repay the principal amount within a set timeframe, ensuring the sustainability of the program for future beneficiaries.

“This approach ensures the fund continues to support more farmers and agribusinesses in the years to come,” he added.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is developing a National Export Policy Framework to boost trade capacity and strengthen the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele highlighted this during a media conference to mark GNUT’s one-year anniversary on Friday.

Prime Minister Manele said the initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to drive economic transformation and improve access to finance for MSMEs.

“A National Export Policy is currently being developed in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, and key stakeholders,” Manele said.

He said the policy will support exporters by improving access to finance, providing technical assistance, and delivering timely market information, all aimed at increasing the global competitiveness of Solomon Islands products.

In a related initiative, Manele said the GNUT government, in partnership with the Young Entrepreneurs Council of Solomon Islands, has secured SBD$3 million to support youth entrepreneurship.

“The government, through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, has partnered with the Young Entrepreneurs Council to secure a $3 million grant. This initiative is focused on growing youth-led businesses in the tourism sector,” he said.

Manele emphasized that both initiatives demonstrate GNUT’s commitment to sustainable economic growth through a strong MSME sector and an export-driven economy.

“Together, these programs will strengthen the resilience of local industries, reduce reliance on imports, and equip Solomon Islanders with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in a fast-changing global economy,” he added.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) initiative and the development of a National Industrialization Policy.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele said the establishment of SEZs aims to promote investment in rural areas by offering business-friendly conditions.

He said the SEZ Bill, now before Parliament, is designed to stimulate investment, streamline business processes, and create employment—especially in rural communities.

“These zones will offer tax incentives, infrastructure support, and customized regulatory frameworks to attract both domestic and foreign investors,” PM Manele said.

He added that key sectors to be supported under SEZs include manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture.

Alongside the SEZ initiative, GNUT is also working on a National Industrialization Policy aimed at boosting local industries through improved infrastructure, access to technology, and expanded market opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister outlined significant fiscal reforms that the GNUT government is set to undertake, starting with a comprehensive review of the national tax system.

“Our goal is to establish a fair, simple, and broad-based tax regime to ensure everyone pays their fair share,” he said.

PM Manele outlined a phased approach to tax reform:

Phase 1: Involves the Tax Administration Act, which has already been passed, and the upcoming Value-Added Tax (VAT) Act, expected to be tabled in Parliament soon.

Phase 2: Began in 2024 following Cabinet’s endorsement of key policy directions. This phase will cover reforms to the Income Tax Act, and later include reviews of excise taxes and resource rent taxes.

The GNUT government says these efforts are vital to modernizing the economy and fostering long-term sustainable growth.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Permanent Secretary (PS) for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Allan Lilia, has called on partners and stakeholders to support the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Maritime College (SIMC) with the installation of a lifeboat and its accessories.

The call was made during the official commissioning and handover ceremony of the newly established Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Centre held last week at the SINU Marine School in East Honiara.

“Following the successful establishment of the SOLAS Centre, the next crucial step is the installation of the lifeboat—a fundamental requirement for delivering basic safety training courses,” PS Lilia said.

He said that these courses are essential in equipping seafarers with the qualifications needed to sail internationally.

“Although the lifeboat has been on site for three years, its installation is critical to ensure training delivery is compliant with international standards,” he added.

PS Lilia used the platform to urge potential partners to come forward and support the project.

“The fundamental elements are firmly in place. We have the vision, the strategic plan, and the potential of our youth. Our focus now is on upgrading the college to fulfil its vital role in training the next generation of maritime professionals,” he said.

Acting Vice-Chancellor of SINU, Dr William Parairato, echoed the importance of the project, stating that it would cost around SBD 5 to 6 million to complete.

“Our next major project is the installation of the lifeboat and accessories, which is crucial to meeting the training needs of the maritime and shipping industry—locally, regionally, and internationally,” he said.

Dr Parairato also informed PS Lilia that SINU has received approval from the Tandai Council of Chiefs to expand the campus beyond the high-water mark in preparation for future developments.

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