Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board Members and Acting Chief Executive Officer met with Prime Minister Honorable Jeremiah Manele.

The PM Courtesy visit has pathed the way for Private Sector through SICCI to officially congratulates the Prime Minister, Honorable Jeremiah Manele in being voted in as PM of Solomon Islands. With courtesy visit, it reflects that the Government sees the Private Sector as key to the economy recovery and growth of Solomon Islands. This has firmly strengthened the great partnership between the Private Sector and Government of Solomon Islands.

SICCI also took this opportunity to make mention key events that Private Sector would value the presence of the Prime Minister to attend and bring to the fore front Private Sector concerns.

Chairlady of SICCI Board, Ms. Namoi Kaluae acknowledged Prime Minister Manele and his team for accepting the request for the meeting.

She also acknowledged the Government’s approach in engaging Private Sector in the 100-day policy dialog that would formulate the Government’s four years master plan.

“This shows your commitment and trust,” Ms. Namoi said.

Ms. Namoi also mentioned SICCI’s upcoming events which includes; Prime Minister’s Breakfast, New Zealand Trade Mission Forum to Solomon Islands, Australia Solomon Islands Business Forum and The Business Excellence Award.

Private Sector concerns presented before the Prime Minister included; high electricity cost, traffic congestion due to road works both Eastern and Western end of Honiara City, the much-needed push for policies and Bills pending much needed outcomes such as the National Building Code, SME Bill, VAT, Local Content Policy, Electricity Bill review, High cost of water and the need for the recognition of a level playing field for local businesses and growth.

In addition, to the issues brought forth, it was highlighted that there is a great need for the establishment of Private Sector partnership with the Pacific region or the strengthening of the MSG with the establishment of greater partnership with Chambers or Business Councils for the facilitation of trade regionally and globally.

In his statement, Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the private sector as the country’s engine room toward economic recovery.

“We cannot grow without investing/supporting the private sector. Our economy needs help and we cannot drive other critical infrastructures such as education and health if we don’t grow the economy or if we don’t grow the economy, we have no chance to develop other critical services,” the Prime Minister said.

Prime Minister Manele said his office has noted the challenges faced by private sector and will address the challenges head-on.

Prime Minister Manele said his government will continue to work closely with private sector through SICCI.