BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Rumours that Sasa Water Company is operating illegally have been dismissed, following confirmation from both the Honiara City Council (HCC) and Company Haus.
An HCC Licensing Division spokesperson confirmed that Sasa Water operates under Zhong Xin Limited. Company Haus also verified Zhong Xin’s registration and legality.
“The Sasa Water Company business license here is Zhong Xin Limited,” said HCC License Division spokesman.
Company Hause also confirmed Zhong Xin’s legality when Island Sun did a double check with Company Hause yesterday.
“The company’s business name is Zhong Xin. They registered in 2014,” said a spokesperson from the Company Haus in a phone interview.
However, Sasa Water has been temporarily shut down since September 27, 2025, due to non-compliance with the Pure Food (Food Control) Regulations 2010 under the Pure Food Act 1996.
HCC Food Safety Officer Luisa Pitisopa explained that the company failed to meet certain hygiene and safety requirements despite being given time to make corrections.
She said that a follow-up inspection found unresolved issues, leading to the closure.
“These regulations cover food hygiene standards, including packaging, labelling, potable water, and contamination risks. Our role is to act before health problems occur,” Miss Pitisopa said.
She said that no illnesses have been linked to Sasa Water products, but inspections revealed potential health risks.
“The specific issues will not be disclosed, but most water sources used by such companies come from boreholes,” she said.
This is the second water company to face closure in recent weeks, after Enargy Water was also ordered to stop operations.
She further said that the closure of Sasa Water will remain in place until the company fully complies with all required standards.
“Once they correct the issues and pass inspection, they will be allowed to resume operations,” Pitisopa said.
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