BY NED GAGAHE
Temotu Province Premier has voiced strong support for the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Bill during his presentation to the Bills and Legislation Committee (BLC), framing it as a critical tool to rebalance Solomon Islands’ consumption-driven economy.
Highlighting alarming trade imbalances, Stanley Tehiahua stated that the productive export sector’s decline to below 25% (2018–2023) while wholesale/retail trade ballooned by 248,000%—a trend he called unsustainable.
The Premier emphasized that the bill must prioritize inclusivity for rural and outer islands like Temotu, proposing amendments to ensure provincial governments and landowners retain decision-making power over SEZ locations, direct a portion of SEZ investments to local infrastructure and establish employment quotas for provincial residents
Premier Tehiahua’s stance reflects Temotu’s unique challenges as the far-east province, where underdevelopment persists despite its strategic location and rich cultural heritage.
However, the Premier cautioned against top-down implementation, urging safeguards against political interference in SEZ governance.
“On behalf of the government of Temotu Province and the people of Temotu, I sincerely thank you for this opportunity to appear before your committee to present and share our views on the Special Economic Zone Bill 2024.
“Purpose of the presentation, Mr. Chairman, I appear before you today with the purpose of voicing our support for the Special Economic Zone Bill 2024 and to humbly highlight areas that require strengthening to ensure the bill is inclusive, responsive to our national development realities and beneficial to all provinces, especially the rural and outer islands.” Premier Tehiahua said.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
