BY NED GAGAHE
The Solomon Islands Government is working towards establishing a Free Trade Agreement with the People’s Republic of China as the country prepares to graduate from its Least Developed Country (LDC) status next year.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele revealed this during his address at the Chinese New Year reception in Honiara last Wednesday February 11, 2026 at Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel.
The Prime Minister said China continues to remain one of Solomon Islands’ largest trading partners, highlighting Beijing’s implementation of zero tariffs on all Solomon Islands products entering the Chinese market.
“With Solomon Islands scheduled to graduate from the Least Developed Country status next year, we are now working to establish a free trade agreement with the People’s Republic of China,” he said.
Mr Manele said the move is part of broader efforts to strengthen economic cooperation and ensure smoother trade relations as the country transitions from its LDC status.
China’s zero-tariff arrangement has already eased market access for Solomon Islands exports, facilitating increased trade between the two countries. A free trade agreement will further formalise trade arrangements and potentially expand opportunities in key sectors such as fisheries, agriculture and forestry.
The Prime Minister said that economic cooperation between the two countries has grown significantly over the past six years, alongside partnerships in health, education, infrastructure, communications and rural development.
He described the bilateral relationship as being grounded in equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit.
Solomon Islands switched diplomatic recognition to China in 2019, and since then economic ties have expanded steadily, with China emerging as a major development and trading partner.
The proposed free trade agreement signals a new phase in economic engagement as Solomon Islands positions itself for a post-LDC future.
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