September 11th, Honiara - Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry [SICCI] sees Bina Harbor project as an important national project that can address some of the country’s major issues such as lack of employment opportunities and poor economic activities.

As the peak organization looking after private sector in the country, SICCI wants to see progress in the implementation of Bina Harbor project.

Bina Habor Tuna Processing Plant Project has been described as a hidden treasure of the country’s economy that is yet to be realized.

Speaking during the 13th Australia Solomon Islands Business Forum, Tuna Industry Advisor, Bina Habor Project Office Mr. Peter Cusack said, Bina Harbor Tuna Processing Plant Project (BHTPP) will be a world class tuna processing facility founded on sustainable resources at a climate resilient port.

He adds that realization of Bina Habor Tuna Processing Plant Project will provide a long-lasting revenue stream for the local economy.

Mr. Cusack further explained that Bina Habor Tuna Processing Plant is projected to create approximately 1,600 direct jobs, and many livelihood and enterprise opportunities – a welcoming news to high rate of unemployment in the country.

He said, the government is engaging with development partners to seek financing support for the required infrastructure and utilities.

“MFMR is engaging with major global tuna industry firms indicating interest is establishing processing operations at Bina.

“With IFC support, SIG will issue a Request for Qualification to potential Bina investors,” Mr. Cusack said.

Member of Malaita Provincial Assembly for Ward 28 in West Kwaio who is the Minister of Fisheries, Honorable John Daubo shared similar sentiment saying that Bina Harbor Project is of great significant to Malaita Province, however positive support towards the project is paramount.

"We want the Bina Harbour Project to happen and our Provincial Government fully supports the project.

“The people of Malaita Province, the Provincial Government and Solomon Islands, we all need this project.

“This is a significant kind of project we can build the national economy with, supporting our local communities and resource owners,” he said.

MPA John Daubo emphasized strong support to the call by SICCI calling on people of Malaita to work together with relevant stakeholders to implement the project.

Team from Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by Chief Executive Officer Mr. James Dolari had an opportunity to visit Bina Harbor last Month.

The visit allowed SICCI team to assess the opportunities and challenges and at the same time provide firsthand insights into the proposed local business environment.

From SICCI’s standpoint, support towards any infrastructure development should be a priority as such development will encourage economic activities as well as job creation.