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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