Members of Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce’s (SICCI) small to medium enterprises met with Honiara City Council’s (HCC) Revenue, Planning and License department.

The information session was organized to help SMEs obtain firsthand information of HCC’s business operations within Honiara city.

Subjects brought forward during the information session includes; Business License Requirements, HCC Basic Rate Ordinance, Property Rating by HCC, Regulatory Compliance and Inspections, Fee Structure & Support for Business Growth, Enforcement Actions and Business Registration & Renewal Processes.

Chairperson of SICCI’s SME Working Group Mr. Charles Sisimia says the information session marks a significant step towards fostering closer collaboration and ongoing dialogue between the private sector and the city council.

He says Honiara City Council serves a critical role in supporting our business community.

Mr. Sisimia added, that HCC provides essential services like infrastructure maintenance, waste collection, and public safety - the backbone of a thriving business environment.

However, he says some of HCC’s regulations and policies have negative impacts to small businesses that maintaining clear and consistent communication is vital.

“I firmly believe that today's session will be highly valuable for all participants, and I encourage everyone to actively engage in the discussions.

“Today's (yesterday) information session offers a valuable opportunity to engage in open dialogue and learn about the HCC's regulatory role in greater detail,” Mr. Sisimia says.

HCC Treasurer Mr. Silas Rodie acknowledges SICCI for organizing the information session.

He describes the information session “very important” as it encourages positive discussion to address the different understanding between small businesses and HCC operations.

Mr. Rodie says the information session fosters common understanding, set priorities and inspire closer collaboration through critical discussions and idea sharing.

He says HCC is looking at having more consultation with small business to create a healthy environment for business to strive.

Mr. Rodie says private sector is the engine room of the economy as such more engagement will follow between private sector and HCC.

He says HCC depends very much on private sector to run its daily operation and that closer collaboration between private sector and HCC is paramount.

SICCI’s Advocacy Officer, Mr. Elvis Bwa’a acknowledged HCC and SICCI’s SME members for attending the information session.

He also acknowledges YECSI and SICCI’s Membership officer for their contributions towards organizing the event

About SICCI

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce (SICCI) is a non-profit organization that represents the interests of businesses in the Solomon Islands. It was established in 1958 and is dedicated to promoting and developing commerce and industry in the country.