The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) is pleased to announce two distinguished economists as confirmed speakers for the historic inaugural Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Investment Conference, taking place in Honiara on 19–20 August 2026.
Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) Governor, Dr Luke Forau, will deliver a keynote address providing authoritative insights into the Solomon Islands economic landscape, offering delegates a comprehensive understanding of the country’s macroeconomic environment and investment climate.
Dr Forau holds a PhD in Economics from the University of New England, Australia, and brings decades of high-level policy experience to the forum. As Governor of CBSI, he has been at the forefront of monetary policy formulation and financial sector development in Solomon Islands. Dr Forau has been instrumental in championing financial inclusion programs aimed at expanding access to formal banking services for underserved communities, particularly in rural and remote areas. Under his leadership, CBSI has driven initiatives to increase digital financial literacy, promote microfinance, and support women and youth entrepreneurship through targeted policy interventions.
Beyond his domestic focus, Dr Forau has actively pursued research collaborations with regional institutions, including the University of the South Pacific (USP), the Pacific Financial Inclusion Programme (PFIP), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), to advance evidence-based policymaking in the Pacific. His recent work has examined the intersection of climate resilience and economic stability, the role of remittances in household welfare, and the potential for digital currencies to enhance financial access across the region. His contributions to regional economic discourse have made him a respected voice in Pacific central banking circles, and his presence at the Forum promises to deliver critical context for investors seeking to navigate Solomon Islands’ evolving economic landscape.
Joining Dr Forau is Dr Kishti Sen, Senior Pacific Economist at ANZ Banking Group, a highly regarded economist renowned for his strategic vision and proven expertise in driving economic growth analysis across the Pacific region. In his current role, Dr Sen leads ANZ’s Pacific macro-research capabilities for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands, publishing economic outlook reports and thought articles on how the region can realise its enormous economic potential. He previously served as a Senior Economist at the Reserve Bank of Fiji and at BIS Oxford Economics, bringing decades of experience in macroeconomic analysis and policy advice.
Dr Sen will deliver authoritative commentary and actionable insights on regional economic developments, equipping businesses and stakeholders with the knowledge needed to capitalise on emerging trends and navigate complex market landscapes across the Pacific.
PNGSIBC President Ernie Gangloff and SICCI Board Chairlady Namoi Kaluae jointly stated that the presence of both economists underscores the significance of this historic Investment Forum.
“Dr Sen’s deep understanding of Pacific economies, combined with Dr Forau’s intimate knowledge of the Solomon Islands economic landscape and his commitment to broadening financial access, will provide invaluable perspectives for investors and business leaders seeking to understand the opportunities within the PNG–Solomon Islands growth corridor,” Ms Kaluae stated.
“The Forum represents a landmark moment for cross-border economic cooperation between the two nations, and we look forward to welcoming delegates from both countries and beyond to what promises to be a transformative dialogue,” Mr Gangloff added
The two-day conference, themed “From Opportunity to Investment: Building the PNG–Solomon Islands Growth Corridor,” meanwhile, will take place at the Heritage Park Hotel, Honiara. It is jointly organised by SICCI and the Papua New Guinea–Solomon Islands Business Council (PNGSIBC), building on a formal Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2025.
The event will bring together government leaders, private sector executives, investors, and development partners to explore investment opportunities across key sectors including infrastructure, telecommunications, banking, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, mining, and services. Registration is now open for the conference. Interested participants are encouraged to secure their places before the 11 August 2026 deadline. Registration can be completed through the SICCI website at solomonchamber.com.sb.