HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS – The Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG) held its first meeting for 2026 today, bringing together senior government representatives and private sector leaders to strengthen policy dialogue and drive economic growth. The high-level gathering was attended by officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration; the Ministry of Planning and Development Coordination; and key private sector bodies. The meeting marks a significant step forward in institutionalizing public-private partnerships as a cornerstone of national development.
The session provided a constructive platform for private sector representatives and government officials to reflect on the implementation of the Government for Rural Advancement, Empowerment, and Transformation (GREAT) Policy. Participants engaged in forward-looking discussions on how private enterprise can effectively contribute to the policy’s objectives of inclusive growth and rural development.
The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) used the occasion to provide critical updates on two flagship events: the PNGSI Business Investment Forum, which aims to showcase investment opportunities and foster regional business linkages; and the 9th Business Excellence Awards, designed to recognize and celebrate outstanding performance, innovation, and best practices within the local business community.
SICCI formally acknowledged the GREAT Government’s demonstrated commitment to advancing local content and its continued recognition of the vital role played by locally owned enterprises. The Chamber emphasized that such policies are essential for building a resilient and self-reliant national economy.
On behalf of its membership, SICCI raised two key legislative priorities requiring urgent parliamentary attention. The Chamber called for the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Bill to be tabled before Parliament, noting that a comprehensive SME framework is critical for formalizing the sector, improving access to finance, and unlocking the potential of local entrepreneurs. Additionally, SICCI underscored the necessity of amending the Electricity Act to address regulatory constraints, improve energy reliability, and reduce operational costs for businesses—factors essential for private sector competitiveness.
Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, SICCI reiterated its desire to see government and the private sector continue their collaborative efforts. The Chamber stressed that sustained partnership is vital to driving private sector priorities and achieving the shared goal of building a stronger, more diversified economy that improves the livelihoods of all Solomon Islanders. Both government representatives and private sector delegates expressed their commitment to the ongoing work of the Advisory Group, with future meetings scheduled to track progress on priority action items.