Honiara, June 13, 2024 – The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) proudly co-hosted with the Office of the Prime Minister, the highly anticipated 2024 Prime Minister's Breakfast this morning.

Ms. Naomi Kaluae, the SICCI Chairlady, warmly welcomed all attendees, with a special mention for the visiting New Zealand Trade Mission delegates.

The SICCI Chairlady expressed her gratitude to the visiting delegates and highlighted the significance of the event, which marks the launch of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), 100-day key policy priority plan and Policy Statement. This initiative is set to establish the foundation for future discussions, engagements, and actions, providing a crucial platform for direct interaction between leadership, taxpayers, and employers.

Reflecting on the recent successful elections at the national, provincial, and city council levels, Ms. Kaluae congratulated the newly elected Prime Minister and the Government for National Unity and Transformation. She emphasized the need for a fresh start in building stronger relationships between the government and the business community.

"The relationship between government and business is fundamentally important for economic growth and must transcend political and commercial interests," said Ms. Kaluae. "Our collective commitment to building this great nation, providing opportunities for our young people, and realizing our growth potential is paramount."

During her speech, Ms. Kaluae identified key areas that require focused policy efforts to boost economic performance, aiming to increase growth from 2.5% to a minimum of 5%. These areas include:

1. Diversifying the Economic Base and Increasing Trade Opportunities:
• Expanding tourism, agribusiness, manufacturing, value-adding, and mining sectors.
• Encouraging meaningful investment from the development budget.
2. Reforming Investment and Ease of Doing Business:
• Modernizing outdated labor laws and accelerating tax reforms for VAT.
• Ensuring a transparent and fair application of incentives and exemptions.
3. Investing in Infrastructure with a Focus on Local Content:
• Continuing infrastructure development to reduce business costs and improve connectivity.
• Legislating financial thresholds to reserve certain projects for Solomon Island contractors.
4. Enhancing Education and Workforce Development:
• Addressing the shortage of skilled labor by investing in human capital.
5. Strengthening Private Sector Engagement:
• Establishing a Cabinet Sub-Committee to focus on trade, investment, regulation, and other private sector concerns.

Ms. Kaluae reiterated SICCI's readiness to support the government in policy dialogue, formation, and implementation. She stressed the need for close collaboration in the current economic climate, which remains fragile despite positive growth projections.

"Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous nation for our future generations," she concluded. "Our friendship must remain strong, no matter the challenges we face. Through collaboration, trust, and shared efforts, we can navigate global crises and achieve progress and prosperity for the Solomon Islands."

The event was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, his Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps, Permanent Secretaries, Senior Government Officials, and representatives from the visiting New Zealand Trade Mission in Honiara.