Honiara, Solomon lslands- The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), as the peak body representing the private sector, is calling on all businesses, contractors and operators to exercise greater responsibility and duty of care when using public infrastructure.
SICCIβs call follows recent public concerns raised by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) regarding an incident on 26 June 2026, where a heavy excavator was reportedly unloaded directly onto the newly constructed asphalt road in front of Tandai Hotel, causing damage to the road surface.
SICCI acknowledges the concern raised by MID and strongly supports the message that protecting public infrastructure is a shared responsibility. Roads, bridges, wharves and other public assets are critical to business operations, trade, logistics and service delivery across Honiara, Guadalcanal and the provinces.
For many years, SICCI has advocated for improved roads, bridges and transport connectivity because quality infrastructure directly supports private sector growth, reduces the cost of doing business, improves access to markets and strengthens Solomon Islandsβ import and export systems.
SICCI also notes the passing of the National Building Standards Act 2025, which provides an important framework for improving building and construction standards in Solomon Islands. The Act reinforces the need for stronger compliance, professional conduct, safety standards and accountability across the building, construction and infrastructure sectors.
In this regard, SICCI encourages all contractors, developers, heavy machinery operators and related businesses to align their practices with the spirit and requirements of the National Building Standards Act 2025, as well as other relevant Government regulations and infrastructure protection requirements.
The newly improved Honiara roads are important national assets. They support the movement of goods, workers, customers and services, and contribute to Honiaraβs role as the countryβs main commercial, logistics, import and export hub.
SICCI therefore calls on private sector businesses, particularly those operating in the construction, logging, transport and heavy machinery sectors, to comply with Solomon Islands Government requirements and ensure that machinery, equipment and heavy goods are transported and operated in a safe and responsible manner. This includes the use of proper loading platforms, protective mats, safeguards and other appropriate measures when moving tracked machinery or heavy equipment on public roads.
SICCI also encourages contractors, developers and operators to strengthen internal procedures, supervision and compliance systems to ensure that public roads and other infrastructure are not damaged through negligence or poor operational practices.
Public infrastructure is funded through public resources and development partnerships, and must be protected for the benefit of businesses, communities and the wider economy.
SICCI will continue to work with Government, development partners and the private sector to promote responsible business practices, stronger compliance, and quality infrastructure that supports economic growth and better lives for Solomon Islanders.