★ Fri, 16 Oct 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates · Business & Economy

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Food tax cut gave poorest PNG households eight toea in the kina, economists write

Three economists write on the Devpolicy Blog that Papua New Guinea's removal of tax from ten basic foods has cost close to half a billion kina, with stores and wholesalers keeping 36 toea in every kina given up.

Solomon Times Business & Economy · 2026-10-06 Original ↗

West Are’are seaweed farmers trained to improve production and export quality

西阿雷海藻农民接受培训以提高生产和出口质量

SIBC Business & Economy · 2026-10-06 Original ↗

G-CUP KICKS OFF

Nine teams begin battle for Guadalcanal football supremacy at Lawson Tama BY RICHARD MENANOPO THE long-awaited 2026 Guadalcanal Football Championship, better known as the G-Cup, finally got underway yesterday with nine teams beginning their campaign for provincial football supremacy at Lawson Tama Stadium. The championship, organised by the Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA), brings together teams representing different parts of Guadalcanal in a competition designed to showcase local talent and strengthen the province’s football development pathway. The tournament officially got underway after weeks of preparations, with attention now turning to the players and teams competing for the G-Cup title. Two players battle for possession in a tightly contested match during opening-day action at the G-Cup.Photo Credit: Guadalcanal Football Championship 2026 According to the latest competition details, nine teams have been confirmed for this year’s championship, with Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) entering the competition as the ninth team following its partnership with GFA. Pool A comprises East Central, Eastern Frigates, Central Gold, North East Guale and Northern Palms, while Pool B features South Guale, West Guale, North West and GRML. The expanded competition gives players from across the province an opportunity to represent their communities on a bigger stage, while also providing GFA with an important platform to identify players for the Guadalcanal Hornets side ahead of the Solomon Cup later this year. The championship has also been shaped by GFA’s eligibility regulations, which were introduced to ensure the competition remains focused on locally based and emerging footballers. Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) FC players celebrate after finding the back of the net during their opening match. Guadalcanal Football Championship 2026 Under the regulations, teams are allowed a maximum of five former Telekom S-League players, while players currently registered with S-League clubs or participating in active Solomon Islands Football Federation competitions are not eligible. Players must also come from the constituency they represent or have lived there for at least six months. The tournament has received a major financial boost from GRML, which provided $50,000 in sponsorship together with 100 branded T-shirts to support the championship. GFA president Leeroy Siovi welcomed the support, saying staging a tournament of this scale requires financial backing and acknowledging GRML’s continued partnership with the association. The Eastern Frigates FC team lineup assembled for their opening Pool A match of the Guadalcanal Football Championship.Photo Credit: Guadalcanal Football Championship 2026 GRML general manager Wang Guobiao said football could help bring communities together and encourage young people to remain disciplined, proactive and involved in positive activities. With the opening day now complete, attention shifts to the remaining pool matches as teams battle for places in the later stages of the championship. For GFA, however, the G-Cup represents more than simply a provincial football tournament. It is another opportunity to strengthen grassroots football, uncover new talent and build a stronger Guadalcanal representative side for the challenges ahead. [Photo: An East Central FC player controls the ball under pressure from an Eastern Frigates FC attacker during pool play at Lawson Tama. Photo Credit: Guadalcanal Football Championship 2026.]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-06 Original ↗

Six boats and engines to improve access for Tekoti seaweed farmers

BY RICHARD MENANOPO SEAWEED farmers on Wagina in Choiseul Province are set to benefit from improved transport access following the delivery of six boats and six engines to the Tekoti Seaweed Association. The equipment, provided through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, will be shared among the association’s six farming zones, with one boat and engine allocated to each zone. Association representative Mavita Rebaio said the support would make a significant difference, particularly for farmers who previously had no access to motorised transport. A priest conducting a blessing ceremony over the newly delivered outboard motors and boats along the shore. Photo Supplied “Having these six boats and six engines delivered will make a huge difference for us. They will really help us because our community is divided into six zones. We are sharing the engines so that each zone gets one,” Rebaio said. Before the support arrived, farmers without their own boats or engines faced difficulties travelling to their farms and transporting materials and harvested seaweed. Rebaio said many farmers had previously depended on traditional dugout canoes which had to be paddled. Children of local seaweed farmers eagerly exploring the new fiberglass boats and equipment provided through the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources. Photo Supplied “The main issue was that farmers who didn’t own a boat or engine found things very difficult,” she said. “Previously, almost none of the farmers had motorboats; they relied solely on traditional dugout canoes that had to be paddled. So, now that these boats have arrived, everyone is very happy to use them.” The six boats will serve the association’s six zones, allowing members within each zone to share the equipment. Rebaio said each zone has more than 50 members, meaning the boats would provide an important transport option for farmers who did not own their own boat and engine. Superintendent Minister John Qoe leading a prayer during the community celebration event. Photo Supplied She said the equipment would assist farmers in carrying out their day-to-day seaweed farming activities, including accessing their farming areas and moving materials and harvested seaweed. The support comes as the Solomon Islands Government continues its investment in seaweed farming. In July, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources said 50 boats and 15-horsepower outboard motors had been handed over to seaweed farming communities around the country to improve transport, farm management and productivity. Rebaio thanked the ministry and its officers for helping the Tekoti association receive the six boats and engines. A close-up view of healthy seaweed clusters growing along tied rope lines underwater. Photo Supplied “A big thank you to the government and its ministry officials who made it possible for us to receive these six boats and six engines,” she said. The equipment was celebrated by the association and community on September 26 at Tekoti Islands, Wagina, with a community feast and blessings from a Catholic deacon and United Church superintendent minister and pastor. The Tekoti Seaweed Association has around 380 members across its six farming zones, making access to reliable transport an important part of its farming activities. [The newly delivered boats lined up along the beach during the handover ceremony.Photo Supplied.]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-05 Original ↗

PM WALE CHAMPIONS PACIFIC’S NATURAL CAPITAL AS NEW INVESTMENT FRONTIER

PM Matthew Wale calls for Pacific natural capital to drive investment, jobs, resilience and long-term wealth. Prime Minister Matthew Wale has called for the Pacific’s oceans, forests, reefs and fisheries to be recognised as a major investment frontier. He said it must be capable of generating jobs, strengthening resilience and building long-term wealth for Pacific [...] The post PM WALE CHAMPIONS PACIFIC’S NATURAL CAPITAL AS NEW INVESTMENT FRONTIER appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-10-05 Original ↗

PM Wale champions Pacific Natural Capital as Investment Frontier

瓦莱总理倡导太平洋自然资本作为投资前沿

SIBC Business & Economy · 2026-10-05 Original ↗

Belu company donates roofing materials to Rufoki community

BY TONY IROGA The community of Rufoki in West Fataleka, Malaita Province, has received a major boost toward the construction of its new Community Kitchen following a generous donation of building materials by local business Belu Company.The handover took place on Wednesday last week at Rufoki community. Belu Company Director, Mr. Emeriko Ramo, provided 40 pieces of iron roofing alongside key roofing accessories to assist in completing the crucial village facility. Speaking to Island Sun, Ramo, a civil engineer by profession and a private contractor working on building construction projects in Honiara, shared that the donation comes straight from the heart. “I want to give back to my community from what I have,” Ramo said. “Many business people have a lot of money, but they do not give back to their own communities in terms of development aspirations.” Ramo, who originally hails from Rufoki, emphasized his ongoing commitment to the growth of his home region. “I look forward to working closely with the community in West Fataleka when it comes to community development aspirations,” he added. Speaking on behalf of the Rufoki Men’s Executive of the Catholic Church and the wider Rufoki community, Mr. Godfrey Angisia expressed deep gratitude to Belu Company and its leadership for stepping up to support local infrastructure. “We are grateful for the provision of 40 pieces of iron roofing and other roofing accessories,” Mr. Angisia said. “This contribution is a significant help to us and will enable our community to continue building this very important facility.” Angisia highlighted that the new Community Kitchen will serve as a vital gathering hub for local residents, hosting church activities, formal meetings, celebrations, and community events that bring people together. “This generosity demonstrates the commitment to supporting communities and contributing to their development,” Angisia said. “We do not take your assistance for granted, and we sincerely appreciate the confidence and goodwill you have shown toward the people of Rufoki.” “Once again, thank you very much, Director, and thank you to Belu Company for standing with us and helping us build this important facility. May God richly bless you, your family, and the entire Belu Company for your kindness and continued support,” he said. [Photo: Roofing materials donated by Belu company is now installed. Photo: supplied.]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-05 Original ↗

No third-party business for recovery effort: Veo

BY BEN BILUA Gizo PREMIER of Western Province Billy Veo has warned the national government against engaging third parties to implement the cyclone recovery programme in Western Province. Veo said the $75 million recovery funding should be fairly distributed between Western and Choiseul provinces with responsibility to implement their respective recovery programmes. Speaking to the media, he said Western Province had already demonstrated its capacity to manage public funds through its existing financial system during the cyclone relief effort. Veo said the $2.5 million provided to Western Province for the relief operation had been fully acquitted and returned to the national government. “This shows our capability to handle fundings,” he said. Veo said there was no justification for the national government to delay the release of the recovery funds to provincial governments. “There is no excuse for the central government to deposit the recovery fund to provincial accounts and allow us to do the task,” he said. Veo said allowing a third party to implement the recovery effort will limit the benefits that the province is anticipated. “Third party I’m referring to are NGOs and private companies. I don’t entertain such arrangement because it will limit the full benefits to provinces affected by the cyclone. “I want the fund to be channelled to provincial account and let the provinces carry out the task,” he said. Veo said allowing the provincial government to manage the recovery programme will ensure more economic benefits remained within affected communities. He said this include purchasing timber locally, employing chainsaw operators, hiring carpenters and engaging other local expertise required for the recovery work. Veo also expressed concern that the recovery funding could be diverted from its intended purpose. “Western Province is worried that the government will be meddling with the recovery fund to satisfy other people. “This is a serious case and Western Province wants its share to be given to the province for implementation,” he said. Veo claimed he had received information that the Ministry of Environment was considering giving the entire recovery fund to a private contractor to implement the recovery programme. “I tell you this because I heard that the Ministry is planning to give the entire fund to a private contractor to carry out the recovery effort. “If this is the arrangement, I feel sorry for the people of Western Province because someone is taking this sad event to make profit,” he said. Veo said the Western Provincial Executive had met last week to discuss the issue and prepare for any proposed arrangement that could affect the province’s role in the recovery programme. He said the meeting also focused on the need to fast-track recovery efforts because cyclone victims could not afford to wait until next year for assistance. Veo questioned why the national government continues to delay the release of funds that had already been allocated and approved for provincial governments. “Why wait for next year? Give the fund to us so that we can start implementing the recovery program,” he said. Veo accused the national government of neglecting Western Province, stressing the province’s contribution to the national economy. “The central government must understand that Western Province contributes 50 percent to the national revenue,” he said. “And this call must be taken seriously,” he said. [Premier of Western Province Billy Veo: File Photo.]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-04 Original ↗

MPGIS urges Central leaders to keep politics out of oversight

BY JOSES SAREN Central Province leaders have been urged to work together and strengthen oversight of public funds, with the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) warning against politicising Assembly committees. A statement from MPGIS said Deputy Secretary for Special Duties Robert Kaua made the call at the close of a two-week induction programme for the Central Provincial Assembly in Tulagi on September 25. Kaua urged the Public Accounts Committee and other Assembly committees to properly carry out their oversight roles and ensure public funds are spent according to approved appropriations. He also reminded provincial leaders to maintain a clear line between political leadership and the professional public service. He said elected leaders were responsible for policy direction, while the Provincial Secretary and public officers had a legal responsibility to provide impartial administration. Kaua also called for a coordinated work programme, stronger committee secretariats and the prompt resolution of outstanding external audit queries. Ward 12 MPA David Manetiva, speaking on behalf of the non-executive members, said members on different sides of the Assembly should remain focused on representing their people. “As non-executive members, our roles are not to compete to take over the government, but to represent our people and lead our wards by providing vital oversight to the assembly and not politicize the public accounts committee,” Manetiva said. “We may sit on different sides of the house, but we share one common purpose: to lead and represent the people of Central Province.” The induction ran from September 14 to 25 and involved all 13 elected Members of the Provincial Assembly, 30 senior provincial officers and 22 MPGIS officials. The programme covered financial management, legislative processes, procurement, revenue generation and provincial governance. [Photo: Deputy Secretary Special Duties (DSSD) MPGIS Robert Kaua. Photo PGSP]

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-04 Original ↗

Central Province eyes stronger revenue collection

BY JOSES SAREN Central Province is looking to increase its own revenue through a new five-year revenue mobilisation strategy aimed at reducing the province’s reliance on fixed service grants. A statement from the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) said the strategy was developed as part of the recent two-week induction programme for the Central Provincial Assembly in Tulagi. The strategy is intended to strengthen provincial revenue collections and, in turn, support better service delivery. The programme also resulted in members of the Central Provincial Executive receiving reference booklets outlining their individual responsibilities as provincial ministers. MPGIS said the booklets give ministers clearer responsibilities for their portfolios and include output indicators that can help Premier Kenneth Sagupari assess their performance. Sagupari welcomed the training, saying it had given provincial leaders greater clarity about their roles. “This induction training has been concise, practical, relevant, and truly helpful in giving us clarity and confidence in our roles as Members of the Provincial Assembly and as Executive Ministers,” he said. Sagupari said he would have preferred the training to have been held at the beginning of the leaders’ tenure, but welcomed the opportunity to now have a better understanding of their responsibilities. The training also covered financial management, legislative processes, domestic revenue generation and procurement compliance. It included sessions on revised Provincial Capacity Development Fund minimum conditions and performance measures. The Central Province induction followed a similar programme in Malaita in August, with Makira-Ulawa Province scheduled to undergo the programme in the third week of October.

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-04 Original ↗

Reeves Envico on board for the 9th Business Excellence Awards

瑞夫斯环境公司参与第九届商业卓越奖

SIBC Business & Economy · 2026-10-03 Original ↗

Reeves Envico confirmed as 9th Business Excellence Awards sponsor

BY JOSES SAREN Reeves Envico has been confirmed as a sponsor of the 9th Business Excellence Awards (BEA), backing the Building and Construction Award. Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) made the announcement in a statement today. “The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) is pleased to announce Reeves Envico as a confirmed sponsor for the upcoming 9th Business Excellence Awards (BEA), sponsoring the Building and Construction Award,” said SICCI. SICCI said Reeves Envico is a leading provider of construction, engineering, and environmental services in the Pacific region, committed to supporting local communities and fostering sustainable development. The company, since 2024 has consistently demonstrated its dedication to giving back to the local business community. SICCI said this partnership marks another milestone in Reeves Envico’s ongoing commitment to the local private sector. SICCI CEO, James Dolarii, acknowledged Reeves Envico during an official signing today. “We appreciate Reeves for supporting the local private sector. “Since 2024, Reeves has always been committed to giving back to the local business community. With sponsoring the award in the 9th BEA, Reeves is giving businesses the encouragement to be recognised not only for the night but also in the long run,” he said. SICCI said the sponsorship of the Building and Construction Award highlights the critical role that this sector plays in the nation’s development and also recognises the outstanding achievements of businesses operating within it. Reeves Envico Country and Project Manager Geoff Lewin also expressed gratitude for the partnership. “We thank SICCI for always providing an avenue for Reeves to give back to the business community and to the country,” Mr Lewin said. The 9th Business Excellence Awards will be held in Honiara on November 7 to celebrate the achievements of businesses across the Solomon Islands, recognising excellence, innovation, and resilience within the private sector. SICCI said nominations for the the 21 awards for this 9 th BEA awards are open and will close on October 9 th , 2026. Photo credit: SICCI For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-02 Original ↗

Cocoa Farmers Urged to Plant More Cocoa Trees

ADRA urges Solomon Islands cocoa farmers to plant more trees, improve production and strengthen agricultural livelihoods. Cocoa farmers from North Malaita, Northeast Guadalcanal and Marovo Lagoon in Western Province have been urged to plant more cocoa trees to increase cocoa production and strengthen their livelihoods. The call was made by the Country Director of the [...] The post Cocoa Farmers Urged to Plant More Cocoa Trees appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-10-02 Original ↗

World bank, stakeholders praised during SI tariff launch

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU Deputy Director of the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Energy Division, Richard Bapo has thanked the World Bank, national and international stakeholders for their vital contributions to the review of the Solomon Islands’ 2026–2028 non‐fuel electricity tariff framework. Speaking during the gazetted electricity tariff 2026-2028 launching yesterday at the Heritage Park hotel, Mr Bapo commended the World Bank for facilitating the cost‐of‐service study that underpins the tariff period. “Your technical expertise, financial assistance, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in enabling this tariff review process. The partnership ensured the review was aligned with international best practices,” he said. He also recognised the role of stakeholders across government, industry, and communities, whose insights and feedback enriched the consultation process. “Your constructive dialogue has ensured the tariff reflects the realities and aspirations of households, businesses, and institutions,” Bapo said. He also made special acknowledgment to Economic Consulting Associates (ECA) for their professional and thorough work in conducting the review. He said their analytical consistency and clear recommendations provided a strong foundation for decision‐making. Bapo further commended the Ministry of Mines and Solomon Power for their leadership and provision of critical data. He emphasised that their role will remain central during implementation. He said the new tariff framework is designed not just as a set of figures but as a step towards resilience and equity in the energy sector. “It is a testament to what can be achieved when government, development partners, technical experts, and stakeholders work together with a shared vision,” Bapo added. He said the launch underscores the government’s broader commitment to ensure tariff structures support national development goals, economic growth, and sustainable energy access for all Solomon Islanders. Photo credit: John Houanihau For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-02 Original ↗

Transparency International asks Pacific governments to press for COP31 integrity rules

Ahead of the pre-COP in Fiji from 5 to 8 October, Transparency International said Pacific governments should push for independent ethics oversight, conflict-of-interest rules and disclosure of fossil fuel ties at COP31.

Solomon Times Business & Economy · 2026-10-02 Original ↗

New 50 cent coin with King Charles III effigy enters circulation

British High Commissioner Paul Turner and Central Bank Governor Dr Luke Forau launched the new Solomon Islands 50 cent coin bearing King Charles III's effigy on 1 October in Honiara.

Solomon Times Business & Economy · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

SPO, Telekom deliver $120m

BY NED GAGAHE SOUTH Pacific Oil Limited (SPOL) and Solomon Telekom Company Limited generated a combined $120 million in dividend income for the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) during the 2026 financial year. SINPF Chief Executive Officer Mike Wate revealed this during the Fund’s annual crediting rate declaration of 5.5 percent at Heritage Park Hotel yesterday. Mr Wate said the Fund recorded total cash dividends of $134.45 million from its key domestic and international equity investments during the 12 months ending June 30, 2026. SPOL was the largest contributor, paying $70 million in dividends, followed by Solomon Telekom with $50 million. Other dividend income came from PNG-based BSP Financial Group Limited with $9.2 million, Australia-domiciled UBS Australian Fund with $1.9 million, and Solomon Islands Submarine Cable Company Limited with $840,000. Together, SPOL and Solomon Telekom accounted for about 89 per cent of the Fund’s total dividend income for the year. Mr Wate said the strong dividend performance was one of the key sources of cash income supporting the Fund during a year in which its overall financial performance was weaker than the previous year. “The cash income from dividends, interests from bank deposits and government bonds and treasury bills, property rental and offshore investments performed well during the year,” he said. However, he said unrealised losses from the annual revaluation of the Fund’s unlisted equities and investment properties had dampened the strong cash income. The Fund recorded draft gross income of $254.88 million, compared with about $430 million in the previous financial year. After operational and member costs, SINPF recorded a net profit of $143.08 million before member distribution and reserving, representing a net return of just over three per cent on its investment portfolio of more than $4.735 billion. Mr Wate also highlighted interest income from investments in SINPF’s domestic equity companies. Solomon Telekom contributed $2.77 million in loan interest, Heritage Park Hotel Limited $2.25 million, Soltuna Limited $2.7 million, and Solomon Islands Submarine Cable Company Limited $330,000. Government sovereign debt investments also generated significant income, with interest increasing to $37.21 million, compared with $28.38 million in 2025. The Fund’s investment property portfolio generated $34.5 million in rental income during the year. Mr Wate said the results demonstrates the importance of the Fund’s diversified investment portfolio in generating income for its members. The 2026 financial performance was presented as SINPF marked its 50th anniversary and held its 50th annual performance and crediting-rate briefing. Photo credit: Ned Gagahe For feedback, contact: gagahened@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

SINPF membership grows despite slower new registrations

BY NED GAGAHE THE Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) recorded growth in its total formal membership and contribution balances despite a slowdown in new registrations and employer growth during the 12 months to June 30, 2026. SINPF Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Mike Wate highlighted the mixed membership performance yesterday while presenting an overview of the Fund’s financial and operational performance at Heritage Park Hotel. Wate said 7,276 new formal members were registered during the year, an increase of about four percent from the 6,998 recorded in 2025. He said the Fund’s total formal membership with credit balances increased to 157,737 from 153,655 in 2025. The total contribution value of formal members also increased substantially, reaching $4.424 billion compared to $4.043 billion the previous year. Active contributing members increased marginally to 61,874, from 61,688 in 2025, representing growth of about 0.3 percent. Their total contribution balance stood at $3.527 billion. Wate said the figures reflected continued expectations that employment will expand as the economy recovers and grows. However, the number of new employers registering with the Fund declined during the year. Only 190 new employers were registered, compared to 225 in 2025. “This is consistent with the slow recovery and growth of our economy over the past two years,” Wate said. Benefit payments The Fund paid out 7,775 benefits worth approximately $375.26 million to formal members during the year. This was slightly lower than the 7,788 benefits worth about $376 million paid in 2025. Wate said the largest share of benefit payments during the year went to retiring members aged 50 years and above. youSave membership The Fund’s informal sector savings scheme, youSave, also recorded growth in its overall membership despite a decline in new registrations. Wate said 4,505 new youSave members were onboarded during the year, down from 6,082 new members in 2025. Despite the decline in new registrations, total youSave membership increased to 54,339 as at June 30, 2026, from 49,834 the previous year. Gross savings reached $125.22 million, an increase of 22 percent from the previous year, while net savings rose to $60.28 million, up 18 percent. However, incoming new contributions from the informal sector fell to $18.11 million from $19.14 million in 2025. The Fund paid 10,422 benefits worth $11.47 million to youSave members during the year. This compares with 11,262 benefits worth approximately $12.50 million paid in 2025. Wate presented the figures as part of his overview of the Fund’s financial and operational performance for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2026, during yesterday’s announcement of the SINPF crediting rate of 5.5 percent at Heritage Park Hotel. Photo credit: Ned Gagahe For feedback, contact: gagahened@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

From $15m Loan to Liability: Why SINPF is Selling Tavanipupu

by Ofani Eremae The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) is selling Tavanipupu Island Resort, one of its most high-profile tourism assets in East Guadalcanal. Dr Philip Tagini, the recently appointed chairman of the SINPF Board, said the decision was made because Tavanipupu had become a liability rather than a... The post From $15m Loan to Liability: Why SINPF is Selling Tavanipupu appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

West Kwaio farmer backs CEMA’s ‘Farmers First’

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA A veteran copra farmer from West Kwaio, Malaita Province, has highly praised the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) for its newly introduced Farmers First Initiative, describing it as a vital platform for rural producers to voice their challenges and shape better agricultural services. Enoch Finalae, 50, a lifelong farmer from Malealau Village, shared that his family’s deep roots in the copra industry span generations, beginning with a coconut plantation established by his great-grandfathers. Mr Finalae has dedicated his life to maintaining the family estate through continuous replanting and rehabilitation. While Finalae operates his own copra dryer to process his coconuts locally before selling them to buyers, he revealed that infrastructure upkeep remains a severe hurdle. “Maintaining the dryer is a constant challenge because it frequently breaks down due to the temporary local materials we have to use,” Finalae said. He stressed that rural farmers urgently need durable materials, such as steel drums and wire netting, to construct permanent, reliable dryers. In addition to infrastructure needs, the Malaitan farmer urged authorities to look into providing reliable shipping and transport services to help rural farmers efficiently get their heavy commodities to urban markets. Despite these ongoing struggles, Finalae expressed deep gratitude to CEMA for its active support on the ground, particularly through the provision of copra drying shacks and offering highly competitive prices for local produce. He highlighted that CEMA’s physical presence and operations in Malaita’s provincial capital, Auki, have significantly boosted accessibility for local farmers. “The Farmers First Initiative really promotes us as farmers and empowers us to maximise the financial benefits from our hard work,” Finalae said. According to CEMA, the Farmers First Initiative was launched to bridge the gap between the authority and rural producers. It serves as an open forum where farmers can directly share their firsthand experiences and offer recommendations on improving national agricultural services, fostering a sense of institutional ownership among rural communities. The strategy heavily complements CEMA’s ongoing rural Agent Programme, which places buying agents directly inside high-yield cocoa and copra villages to streamline trade. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-10-01 Original ↗

SIART invests $8.7 million in 20 community pig farming groups

A SIART media release says the money has gone to groups in Malaita, Guadalcanal and Makira/Ulawa provinces, with 532 households said to be better off.

Solomon Times Business & Economy · 2026-09-30 Original ↗

SINPF Awards 5.5% to Members

by Ofani Eremae& Members of the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) will receive a 5.5% crediting rate on their balances this year – down from the 8% interest rate awarded last year. Finance minister Rexom Ramofafia announced this at a ceremony held at the Heritage Park Hotel. The event... The post SINPF Awards 5.5% to Members appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-09-30 Original ↗

SINPF Members to Receive 5.5% Crediting Rate

SINPF members will receive a 5.5% crediting rate for 2026, with more than SBD200 million to be credited to member accounts. Members of the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) will receive a 5.5 percent crediting rate for the financial year ending 30 June 2026. Minister of Finance and Treasury Rexon Ramofafia announced the rate [...] The post SINPF Members to Receive 5.5% Crediting Rate appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-09-30 Original ↗

Solomons Rejoins EITI After Eight-Year Exit

Solomon Islands has rejoined the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), the global framework designed to make the management of a country’s oil, gas and mining resources more transparent and accountable. The move, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), marks an important step in the country’s efforts to strengthen... The post Solomons Rejoins EITI After Eight-Year Exit appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-09-30 Original ↗