MINISTRIES URGED TO UPHOLD THE PFM ACTBy LEILANI OSOSolomon Star, HoniaraTHE Finance and Treasury Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo has called on all Permanent Secretaries, and all Financial Controllers, Human Resources Managers in Government Ministries to uphold the Public Financial Management [PFM] Act (2013).The Minister also urged the holders of these positions to work together to manage all priority activities and programmes in the 2026 Budget within the secured financial resources, and demonstrate discipline during the budget execution.Lilo made the calls when presenting the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament on Thursday 13 August.The Government, through the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026, sought Parliament’s authourisation of additional expenditure of $758,411,407.09 to the 2026 Appropriation Act 2025 for government services up until the end of this year.This includes $10,000,000 in Contingency Warrants, $316,404,082.81 in Advance Warrants and additional expenditures of $432,007,324.28, which comprise $197,657,324.28 recurrent expenditures, $159,350,000.00 development expenditures and 75,000,000.00 budget support.Lilo said the additional supplementary expenditures were considered in accordance with section 102(3) of the Constitution and section 51 of the PFM Act 2013.He said it was found that the sum appropriated by the 2026 Appropriation Act 2025 for any purpose was insufficient and a need has arisen for expenditure for a purpose for which no sum has been appropriated. The Finance and Treasury Minister said the government remains committed to monitor the implementation of the 2026 budget, ensure funds are available to meet its contractual commitments and outstanding mandatory obligations to ensure government essential services continued to be delivered to our people without disruptions. “Sir, the Ministry of Finance and Treasury will continue to support ministries and closely monitor all expenditures and ensure they are spent wisely, responsibly and to protect the economic and social wellbeing of our people. “I therefore call on all responsible Permanent Secretaries, Financial Controllers, Human Resources Managers and Directors to uphold the PFM Act (2013) and work together to manage all priority activities and programs within the secured financial resources, and demonstrate discipline during execution of the Budget.” The Supplementary Bill passed through the Committee and Third Reading Stages on Friday 14 August.//End//
CHARLES SUMMERS IN THE PARLIAMENTBy LEILANI OSOSolomon Star, Honiara财政与财政部部长戈登·达西·利洛(Gordon Darcy Lilo)呼吁所有常务秘书、所有财务主管和人力资源经理遵守2013年公共财政管理法案(PFM Act)。部长还敦促这些职位的持有者共同努力,在确保的财政资源内管理2026年预算中的所有优先活动和项目,并在预算执行过程中表现出纪律性。利洛是在8月13日星期四向国会提交2026年补充拨款法案时发出的呼吁。政府通过2026年补充拨款法案寻求国会授权额外支出758,411,407.09美元,用于2026年拨款法案(2025年)下的政府服务,直到今年年底。这包括1,000万美元的应急拨款、316,404,082.81美元的预付款和432,007,324.28美元的额外支出,其中包括197,657,324.28美元的经常性支出、159,350,000.00美元的发展支出和75,000,000.00美元的预算支持。利洛表示,额外的补充支出是根据宪法第102(3)条和2013年公共财政管理法案第51条进行考虑的。他说,发现2026年拨款法案(2025年)所拨的款项不足,出现了需要支出但未拨款的情况。财政与财政部部长表示,政府将继续致力于监控2026年预算的实施,确保资金可用以满足其合同承诺和未偿还的强制性义务,以确保政府的基本服务能够持续提供给人民,而不受干扰。“先生,财政与财政部将继续支持各部门,密切监控所有支出,确保支出明智、负责任,并保护我们人民的经济和社会福祉。“因此,我呼吁所有负责的常务秘书、财务主管、人力资源经理和主任遵守2013年公共财政管理法案,并共同努力在确保的财政资源内管理所有优先活动和项目,并在预算执行过程中表现出纪律性。”补充法案于8月14日星期五通过了委员会和第三阅读阶段。//结束//
BY BEN BILUAGizoTHE Government has allocated .4 million, representing 45 percent of its budget, towards economic transformation, inclusive economic development, job creation, tourism and fisheries investment.Minister of Finance Gordon Darcy Lilo said the allocation forms part of the Government’s commitment under the Great Coalition Government to create greater economic opportunities and promote sustainable growth.He said the Government will support farmers to increase cocoa production as part of efforts to strengthen the rural economy.Lilo said rural economic and social development remains a priority, with .3 million, or 28 percent of the budget, allocated towards the resource sector.He said the investment aims to support key productive sectors and ensure that economic development reaches rural communities.Lilo stated that the Government has also approved .7 million in credit and grant funding from development partners for key infrastructure development.He said the funding includes support for implementation of the Community Access and Urban Security Enhancement Project under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development.“It includes additional funding for road maintenance in Honiara, Malaita and Western Province, as well as office maintenance and the purchase of machinery, structures and fencing under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Development,” Lilo said.On national security, public safety, education, health and social cohesion, he said the Government has allocated .7 million, representing 19 percent of the budget, towards the social sector.Lilo said donor support will also assist with the implementation of asset maintenance and housing construction projects.“Additional funding has been provided to maintain mandatory and operational services under the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the Correctional Services Commission,” he said.In the education sector, Lilo said the Government will support the rehabilitation of school infrastructure, increase funding for scholarships and school grants, and meet administrative costs associated with initial consultations on the Government’s free education policy in preparation for 2027.He said the allocations reflect the fundamental pillars of the Great Coalition Government, including economic opportunity and sustainable growth, national security and public safety, education, health and human capital development, social cohesion, culture and community wellbeing, and infrastructure and national development.Lilo said the Government’s investment priorities are designed to support economic growth while improving essential services and development opportunities for Solomon Islanders.Photo credit: NPSIFor feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.comEditor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) partners with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration to profile local MSME and women lead businesses at the upcoming Inaugural PNG Solomon Islands Business Investment Conference to be held on the 19 and 20 August, at Heritage Park Hotel.
A landmark event between the two Melanesian countries who have shared similar culture, challenges and vision to grow and strengthen its economy through private sector development.
Under a shared vision, MCILI and SICCI look to support grow the local MSME sector of Solomon Islands, through building business capacities, networking, engagement and connecting to the market.
MCILI Director of Marketing, Ms. Donalee Vozoto, emphasized the GREAT Government’s priority to enable MSMEs to participate meaningfully in business, expand domestic value addition, and access practical markets.
“MSME businesses are the backbone of our country. Supporting them means we are nurturing them to become the leading employers of the future. Giving them the opportunity to participate in events like this pushes them in the right direction—connecting them to markets that are practical and accessible for Solomon Islands,” Ms. Vozoto stated.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership with SICCI under our Private Sector Advisory Group MOU. The GREAT Government’s priority is to empower our MSMEs to participate meaningfully in business, expand domestic value addition, and access markets—and this partnership is a direct reflection of that commitment,” she added.
SICCI Export Industry Development Officer, Ms. Freda Tekulu , welcomed the continued collaboration, highlighting its significance for local enterprise growth.
“On behalf of SICCI, we are delighted to continue this partnership as we build the capacity of our MSMEs. Getting businesses in front of potential buyers and helping them make meaningful connections is at the very core of what SICCI advocates for—particularly for our export-ready sectors. SICCI believe this partnership will add great value to our MSMEs as we entrust them into this platform,” Ms. Tekulu said.
The support directly advances the government’s Local Content Policy by ensuring that the conference features dedicated sessions tailored to the needs of local enterprises, including investment readiness, access to finance, and sector-specific opportunities in agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and renewable energy. SICCI views this as a practical step toward translating national policy into tangible outcomes for its members and the wider business community.
Both Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale and PNG Prime Minister Hon. James Marape will open the business conference and deliver the keynote address, reinforcing the high-level partnership and commitment to strengthening economic ties between the two Melanesian neighbours.
Other distinguished speakers who will be speaking at this conference include Ministers: Hon. Harry Kuma, Hon. Derrick Manu’ari, Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, Hon. Franlyn Wasi; CBSI Governor Dr. Luke Forau, SINPF CEO Mr. Mike Wate, and representative from SIWIBA and YECSI.
Speakers from PNG include private sector investors, women and youth organisations and PNG Government rep.
The hosting Councils Papua New Guinea Solomon Islands Business Council and SICCI look to host a meaningful business engagement forum where both the economy of both countries could be built on going into the future.
The Inaugural Business event is attended through registration only.
霍尼亚拉,所罗门群岛——所罗门群岛工商会(SICCI)与商业、工业、劳工和移民部(MCILI)合作,在即将于8月19日至20日在遗产公园酒店举行的首届巴新-所罗门商业投资会议上,展示当地中小企业和女性主导的企业。
这是两个拥有相似文化、面临共同挑战并致力于通过私营部门发展来促进经济增长的美拉尼西亚国家之间的里程碑事件。
在共同愿景的指导下,MCILI和SICCI希望通过提升商业能力、建立网络、加强参与和连接市场来支持所罗门群岛的中小企业部门发展。
MCILI市场营销主任多娜莉·沃佐托(Ms. Donalee Vozoto)强调,伟大政府(GREAT Government)优先考虑使中小企业能够有意义地参与商业、扩大国内价值增加和获取实用市场。
沃佐托表示:“中小企业是我们国家的支柱。支持它们意味着我们在培养它们成为未来的主要雇主。让它们有机会参与这样的活动,将它们推向正确的方向——将它们与对所罗门群岛而言实用且可及的市场连接起来。”
她补充道:“我们很高兴在我们的私营部门咨询小组谅解备忘录下继续与SICCI合作。伟大政府的优先事项是赋能我们的中小企业,使其能够有意义地参与商业、扩大国内价值增加和获取市场——这一合作关系直接反映了这一承诺。”
SICCI出口行业发展官员弗雷达·特库鲁(Ms. Freda Tekulu)欢迎持续的合作,强调其对当地企业增长的重要性。
特库鲁表示:“代表SICCI,我们很高兴继续这一合作关系,因为我们在提升中小企业的能力。让企业接触潜在买家并帮助它们建立有意义的联系是SICCI倡导的核心——特别是对于我们的出口准备部门。SICCI相信,这一合作关系将为我们的中小企业增添巨大的价值,因为我们将它们托付于这一平台。”
这一支持直接推动了政府的地方内容政策,确保会议设有专门针对当地企业需求的会议,包括投资准备、融资渠道和农业、渔业、旅游和可再生能源等特定行业的机会。SICCI将此视为将国家政策转化为其成员和更广泛商业社区可见成果的实际步骤。
所罗门群岛总理马修·韦尔(Hon. Matthew Wale)和巴新总理詹姆斯·马拉佩(Hon. James Marape)将共同开幕并发表主题演讲,强调两国之间高层合作关系和加强经济联系的承诺。
其他在本次会议上发言的杰出嘉宾包括部长:哈里·库马(Hon. Harry Kuma)、德里克·马努阿里(Hon. Derrick Manu’ari)、里基·福奥(Hon. Ricky Fuo’o)、弗兰克林·瓦西(Hon. Franlyn Wasi);中央银行所罗门群岛行长卢克·福劳(Dr. Luke Forau)、所罗门群岛国家养老基金首席执行官迈克·瓦特(Mr. Mike Wate)以及来自所罗门群岛女性商业协会(SIWIBA)和青年企业家和社区倡导组织(YECSI)的代表。
来自巴新的发言人包括私营部门投资者、女性和青年组织以及巴新政府代表。
主办方巴新所罗门群岛商业委员会和SICCI希望举办一个有意义的商业交流论坛,以便为两国的经济未来奠定基础。
首届商业活动仅限注册参加。
MCILI Hands Over Laptops to Strongim Bisnis Business Accelerator ParticipantsThe Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI), through its Business and Cooperative Division, has officially handed over five laptops to selected participants of the Strongim Bisnis Business Accelerator Programme.The handover forms part of an ongoing partnership aimed at strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Solomon Islands by improving access to technology, business support and productive assets.The Business Accelerator Programme commenced in August 2025 and provided participating businesses with six months of coaching, mentoring and specialised business training.The programme culminated in a Shark Tank-style business competition, where 10 small businesses presented their business ideas and growth plans.As part of the programme's support package, winning participants received non-cash business assets sponsored by MCILI, including laptops and Starlink units.The assets are expected to help participating businesses improve digital connectivity, productivity, record-keeping, marketing and access to online markets.The initiative is part of the Government's broader MSME Development and Indigenous Business Empowerment Programme, which seeks to strengthen locally owned businesses, improve business capabilities and create greater opportunities for indigenous entrepreneurs to participate in economic development.The programme has also contributed to the development of a new blended financing facility between Strongim Bisnis and the Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI).The facility is intended to support MSMEs seeking asset financing, particularly businesses operating in the agriculture and tourism sectors.MCILI said the partnership demonstrates how government, development partners and financial institutions can work together to move MSMEs beyond training and mentoring towards greater access to productive assets, finance, technology and markets.The Ministry welcomed the partnership and said it looks forward to expanding similar initiatives to support more Solomon Islands-owned businesses and cooperatives as part of the national MSME development agenda.//ENDS
MCILI Hands Over Laptops to Strongim Bisnis Business Accelerator Participants商业、工业、劳工和移民部(MCILI)通过其商业与合作部正式向 Strongim Bisnis 商业加速器项目的选定参与者移交了五台笔记本电脑。此次移交是一个持续合作伙伴关系的一部分,旨在通过改善对技术、商业支持和生产性资产的获取,来加强所罗门群岛的微型、小型和中型企业(MSMEs)。商业加速器项目于2025年8月启动,为参与企业提供了六个月的辅导、指导和专业商业培训。该项目 culminated in a Shark Tank-style business competition, where 10 small businesses presented their business ideas and growth plans.作为项目支持包的一部分,获胜参与者获得了由 MCILI 赞助的非现金商业资产,包括笔记本电脑和 Starlink 单元。这些资产预计将帮助参与企业改善数字连接、生产力、记录保存、市场营销和进入在线市场的能力。该倡议是政府更广泛的 MSME 发展和本土企业赋权计划的一部分,旨在加强本地拥有的企业,改善商业能力,并为本土企业家创造更多参与经济发展的机会。该项目还促进了 Strongim Bisnis 与所罗门群岛发展银行(DBSI)之间新混合融资设施的发展。该设施旨在支持寻求资产融资的 MSMEs,特别是农业和旅游行业的企业。MCILI 表示,这一合作伙伴关系展示了政府、发展合作伙伴和金融机构如何共同努力,将 MSMEs 从培训和指导推向更大程度的生产性资产、融资、技术和市场的获取。该部欢迎这一合作伙伴关系,并表示期待扩大类似倡议,以支持更多所罗门群岛本土企业和合作社,作为国家 MSME 发展议程的一部分。//ENDS
GREAT Coalition records strong revenue collections, with domestic revenue exceeding the six-month budget target by $56 million. THE GREAT Coalition has started with encouraging fiscal results, with strong domestic revenue collections providing a solid foundation for the Government’s reform and development agenda. Speaking during the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament this week, Minister [...]
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BY NED GAGAHE
The Government has introduced the Mineral Resources Bill 2025 to modernise Solomon Islands’ mining laws, strengthen environmental protection and ensure landowners and communities benefit more from mining.
Moving the Bill for its second reading in Parliament this morning, Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Derrick Manuari said it will repeal the Mines and Minerals Act (Cap. 42), which has governed the sector for more than 30 years.
He said the new law will promote transparent and accountable mining while balancing economic development, social equity and environmental protection.
The Bill introduces, for the first time, a statutory Community Development Agreement (CDA) framework requiring large-scale mining companies to formally share benefits with affected communities
Large-scale mining projects will be required to enter into CDAs with affected communities, covering areas such as local employment, infrastructure, education and health.
“This is a landmark step,” Manuari told Parliament.
“For the first time, CDAs will be a statutory requirement, giving communities a guaranteed share in mining benefits.”
The Bill will also strengthen landowner rights by requiring companies to negotiate access agreements before entering land and provide compensation for disturbance, loss of use or damage.
Environmental safeguards will require mining companies to obtain environmental approvals and rehabilitate mining sites during and after operations. Financial assurances, including rehabilitation bonds, will help prevent companies from abandoning damaged sites.
Under the proposed licensing system, the Minister, acting on advice from the Minerals Board, will grant, renew, vary or cancel mineral tenements.
The Bill covers reconnaissance, prospecting, feasibility and mining licences, as well as artisanal and community permits.
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BY NED GAGAHE
People who mine without lawful authority could face up to 15 years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to 15 million penalty units under the proposed Mineral Resources Bill 2025.
Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) Derrick Manuari outlined the provision in Parliament this morning when he introduced the Bill for its second reading.
The Bill states that mining without lawful authority will constitute an offence, with the penalties intended to deter illegal mining activities.
Applicants for mineral tenements will also be required to undergo a “fit and proper person” assessment, covering financial capacity, technical expertise, environmental approvals and community agreements.
The proposed legislation will establish prohibited, protected and restricted areas, including national parks, World Heritage sites, biodiversity areas, cemeteries and state forests.
A public Mining Register will also be established to record applications, grants, renewals, cancellations and transfers of mineral tenements.
Stricter controls on the transfer of mining rights and disclosure of beneficial ownership will be introduced to prevent hidden interests and ensure only qualified operators hold mining rights.
The Bill will also formalise artisanal and small-scale mining through registration, environmental safeguards and support for cooperatives.
Stronger workplace health and safety requirements are proposed, including accident reporting and emergency response plans.
The proposed legislation also provides for royalties to be calculated based on the market value of minerals, with revenues shared among the Government, landowners and provincial governments.
Manuari said the Bill will promote sustainable mining, protect landowner and community rights, and support national economic development.
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Minister Lilo slams tax exemptions
as “daylight robbery”
By LEILANI OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
THE Minister for Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo has described tax exemptions as a daylight robbery as all the revenue supposed to be received by the state is forfeited.
Lilo made this remark when presenting the 2026 Supplementary Bill 2026 in Parliament for debate at the Second Reading Stage on Thursday 13 August 2026.
The Government, through the Bill, seeks authorisation of Parliament for additional expenditure to the 2026 Appropriation Act 2025 worth $758,411,407.09.
This includes $10,000,000 Contingency Warrants, $316,404,082.81 Advance Warrants and additional expenditures of $432,007,324.28, which comprises $197,657,324.28 in recurrent expenditures, $159,350,000.00 in development expenditures and 75,000,000.00 in budget support for the services in the year ending 31st December 2026.
Speaking of what MoFT has done to strengthen revenue leakages in the government system, Lilo said: “Mr Speaker Sir, what good does it bring to the government when all the revenue it supposed to be received is forfeited, this is robbery decorated in exemptions.”
He said he is aware that there are some businesses who try to avoid paying taxes.
“Such practices are not only destructive to our revenue collections and service delivery but also raise concern on the national security of this country.
"We want to provide tax relief but at the same time do not tolerate tax abuse,” the MoFT Minister said.
The MoFT Minister said the largest area of progress by the Ministry has been tax reform, and highlighted that a modern tax system is the foundation of domestic revenue.
He said the aim of the Ministry is a system that is fair, simple, broad and even-handed, in which individuals and businesses each carry their proper share.
“The programme is large and is being done in stages, so that each reform is properly designed before it is put into effect,” Lilo said.
“Under the first stage, this House passed the Tax Administration Act. That strengthens how tax is administered and governed, and gives us the foundation for better compliance, better collection, and greater public confidence in the fairness of the system.”
Lilo said MoFT has continued preparing the Value Added Tax legislation, which is expected to come before this House this year.
He said the second stage is also moving, and it involves reform of the Income Tax Act and review of excise and of resource rent taxation so that the tax system keeps pace with an economy whose shape is changing and so that the country captures a proper share of the value taken out of it.
Highlighting the importance of public finance management, Lilo said, “strengthening how we manage public money is what makes all of this possible. It ensures resources are raised and allocated sensibly, that spending follows national priorities, and that public funds are used openly and accountably.”
He said fiscal discipline alongside growth requires careful choices and strong institutions, and also requires political support and political discipline, and I say that to both sides of this Chamber.
“Mr Speaker, this work goes well beyond preparing a Budget once a year. Tax reform builds our revenue.
“Enterprise reform steadies our public companies. Financial sector reform makes our financial system stronger and more inclusive.
“Public finance reform makes sure the money is handled properly. Together they build the ground on which growth stands and give this Government the capacity to answer the next shock when it comes.”
Lilo then commended the leadership and staff of MoFT for their work and reminded line ministries that the priorities of this Government will be reflected in the 2027 Budget, and that they must comply with the budget instructions to be issued shortly.
GREAT COALITION RECORDS STRONG REVENUE PERFORMANCE
THE GREAT Coalition has started with encouraging fiscal results, with strong domestic revenue collections providing a solid foundation for the Government’s reform and development agenda.
Speaking during the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament this week, Minister of Finance and Treasury Hon. Gordon Darcy Lilo highlighted the positive revenue performance recorded during the first half of 2026.
Since the new Government came into office, one of the clearest positive indicators has been the strength of domestic revenue mobilisation.
“By June, SIG revenues had reached $2.147 billion, exceeding the six-month budget target by $56 million,” he said.
He said the strongest contribution came from the Inland Revenue Division, which collected $1.551 billion, exceeding the mid-year budget by an impressive $223.7 million.
Minister Lilo said the result reflected stronger economic activity, improved tax compliance and increased collections across key revenue streams, including company tax, withholding tax and personal income tax.
Importantly, he said the Government has now revised its year-end forecast for Inland Revenue collections upward to $3.151 billion, an increase of $382.9 million.
“The results demonstrate that the Solomon Islands economy has continued to generate strong domestic revenue despite challenging international and domestic conditions,” he said.
The Finance Minister highlighted that another important positive indicator is the $76.1 million surplus in the SIG recurrent balance, meaning domestic revenue was higher than recurrent expenditure during the review period.
“For the new Government, this provides an important platform to strengthen fiscal discipline and ensure public finances are managed responsibly,” he said.
“ This shows SIG domestic revenue receipt is higher than SIG recurrent expenditure.”
Minister Lilo said the Government also recognises that not all revenue areas performed at the same level.
By June, he said 42.3 percent of the annual revenue target had already been collected, while expenditure execution stood at 38.2 percent.
“The Government expects both revenue and expenditure activity to increase during the second half of the year as economic activity strengthens and key government programmes move further into implementation,” he said.
The fiscal performance gives the new GREAT Coalition Government a stronger platform from which to pursue its priorities of strengthening institutions, growing a productive economy, responsibly managing the country’s natural wealth and investing in people.
The Finance Minister said the Government will continue to build on the positive revenue performance while strengthening tax compliance, improving revenue administration, controlling unnecessary expenditure and ensuring public funds are directed towards priority national programmes.
Minister Lilo said early fiscal results show that the new Government has inherited challenges.
However, he said it has also inherited an economy with strong revenue-generating capacit.
“This Government is determined to turn that strength into better services, stronger institutions and tangible development for Solomon Islanders,” he said.
Ends///
Workers' Action could Tarnish
Solomon Islands’ Image in Australia
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
Solomon Islands seasonal workers living and working in Australia have expressed concern over the alleged misconduct of a few workers, saying such behaviour could tarnish the reputation of hardworking Solomon Islanders who are committed to supporting their families back home.
Solomon Islanders living and working in Leeton, Australia, said they were saddened to hear reports about the alleged behaviour of some seasonal workers.
A Leeton-based worker in Australia told the Solomon Star the reported incidents could damage the reputation of other Solomon Islanders working in Australia who strive to be good ambassadors for the country.
The reports were shared on social media over the past few days and attracted criticism from members of the public who said such behaviour was unacceptable, particularly among workers living in a foreign country.
“We feel ashamed when we see such reports,” the Solomon Islander seasonal worker in Leeton said.
It was reported that some Solomon Island seasonal workers in Gatton Queens Land have allegedly been involved in drinking, causing disturbances with loud music, and smashing bottles on the road.
There were also reports alleging the smell of drugs in the area.
The workers said such behaviour could disturb other members of the community and create a negative impression of Solomon Islanders living and working in Australia.
Solomon Islanders working on other farms across Australia have called on the Solomon Islands Government to consider appropriate measures to address misconduct by mis behaviour workers.
They said addressing such incidents was important to protect the reputation of the many Solomon Islanders who work hard, respect local communities and remain focused on supporting their families back home.
//end//
BY LORETTA B MANELE
Solomon Islands real GDP growth for this year has been revised upward to 3.5 percent and is driven by strong domestic demand, increased investment, and improved performance in sectors of mining, agriculture, tourism, and fisheries.
This was shared on the floor of Parliament yesterday by Minister of Finance and Treasury, Gordon Darcy Lilo when he delivered the Second Reading Speech on the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026.
While the mentioned sectors are contributing to the growth, Mr Lilo said logging on the other hand continues to decline and is a reinforcement of the often spoken about need for diversification.
Mr Lilo said mining, specifically gold production is expected to remain as the main driver of growth with support from continued investment and strong export earnings.
Other sectors like fisheries, agriculture, construction, transport and retail trade as stated, are also expected to contribute to economic activity.
And although logging continues to generate export revenue, the Minister said its contribution to growth has gradually declined as forest resources have become more constrained hence the greater shift towards mining and other productive sectors.
Mr Lilo also highlighted promising economic growth from GDP indicators.
For household consumption as a component of GDP, he said it is projected to increase by 10.6 percent from $9.0 billion in 2025 to $9.9 billion in 2026 and remains the largest component of aggregate demand.
“Consumption is estimated to account for approximately 57 per cent of GDP and contribute 5.7 percentage points to overall economic growth in 2026, due to increased spending on food, transport, communication, education, health services, and retail trade, as the main drivers of economic activities,” Lilo said.
Government expenditure is projected to increase by 6.4 percent from $4.4 billion in 2025 to $4.9 billion in 2026, and reflects higher expenditure on public administration, education, health, law and order, and other essential services.
“Increased government spending is expected to stimulate domestic economic activity through higher demand for goods and services,” the Minister added.
In terms of investment, Mr Lilo said Gross capital formation is projected to increase by 12.4 percent from $2.8 billion in 2025 to $3.1 billion in 2026 and is a reflection of continued investment across the private sector, Government, and SOEs.
Growth is also in the external sector with exports projected to increase from $4.4 billion in 2025 to $4.5 billion in 2026, driven mainly by stronger performance in mining, agriculture and fisheries.
Meanwhile, imports are projected to increase by 12.4 percent, from $10.5 billion in 2025 to $11.7 billion in 2026, reflecting stronger domestic demand and higher investment activity.
Mr Lilo said growth in this sector is expected to be driven by increase in purchases of machinery, fuel, construction materials, transport equipment, and other capital goods required for mining operations, infrastructure development, and business expansion.
He went on to speak on the sectoral performance, briefing Parliament of growth in the mining, agriculture and cocoa sectors with logging said to gradually decline in its contribution to growth.
In the mining sector, the Minister said gold exports are expected to rise from $3.2 billion to $3.4 billion, highlighting the sector as the country’s largest source of export earnings and foreign exchange.
Growth in the agriculture sector was also evident with agricultural products said to have recorded an improved performance in the first half of 2026, driven by stronger production of crude palm oil (CPO) and cocoa.
“CPO production recovered during the second quarter of 2026, increasing from approximately 5,500 tonnes in the first quarter to around 6,500 tonnes, reflecting improved harvesting conditions, better plantation management, and enhanced processing activities,” said Lilo.
For the cocoa sector, production increased with improved harvesting activity and stronger output from cocoa-growing areas.
“Production rose significantly during the second quarter of 2026, while international cocoa prices, although lower than the record highs of 2025, remained well above historical averages at around USD 4,000 per metric ton.
“Higher production volumes combined with favorable prices are expected to boost export receipts and improve rural incomes,” the minister said.
Contributing to growth yet also declining in doing so is the logging sector.
The MP for Central Honiara said while logging continues to generate export revenue, its contribution to growth is slowing down as forest resources become more constrained, resulting in a greater shift towards mining and other productive sectors.
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
The Minister of Finance and Treasury, Gordon Darcy Lilo has emphasised on the importance of managing public finances when he delivered the Second Reading Speech on the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament yesterday.
He told parliament that managing public money ensures resources are raised and allocated sensibly, spending follows national priorities, and that public funds are used openly and accountably.
Lilo said that fiscal discipline alongside growth requires careful choices and strong institutions.
“It also requires political support and political discipline, and I say that to both sides of this Chamber,” he added.
The Minister said this work goes well beyond preparing a Budget once a year, pointing out that Tax reform builds the country’s revenue, enterprise reform steadies’ public companies and financial sector reforms make our financial system stronger and more inclusive.
Meanwhile, he said public finance reform ensures money is well handled.
“Together they build the ground on which growth stands and give this Government the capacity to answer the next shock when it comes,” he said.
Lilo also took the opportunity to commend the staff of the Finance Ministry for their work while also putting out a reminder for line ministries to comply with Budget instructions that will be issued shortly.
“As a responsible Minister, I commend the leadership and staff of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury for their work. And I remind line ministries that the priorities of this Government will be reflected in the 2027 Budget, and that they must comply with the budget instructions to be issued shortly,” he said.
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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands Government (SIG) spent about $5.1 billion in 2025, while collecting around $4.1 billion in revenue, according to Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo.
Presenting the 2025 Supplementary Appropriation Bill 2026 in Parliament on Thursday 13, this week, Mr Lilo said the government recorded a fiscal deficit of about $768 million during the year.
He, however, said the external budget financing of around $967 million resulted in an overall surplus of about $199 million.
Mr Lilo said the domestic economy performed better in 2025, growing by 3.7 percent, compared with 2.7 percent in 2024.
He added that the growth was mainly driven by the industrial sector, which expanded by 6.1 percent, with mining recording particularly strong growth of 48.5 percent, compared with 12 percent in 2024.
He said stronger gold production, favourable commodity prices and increased export earnings supported mining.
Mr Lilo said mining exports were estimated at $3.2 billion, making the sector a major source of foreign exchange.
“However, the logging sector weakened substantially, with declines in revenue, exports and harvesting activity. Mr Lilo said the decline showed the need for the country to diversify its economy.
“Government revenue performed strongly in 2025, with total SIG revenue reaching about $4.1 billion. This was $289 million, or 7.5 percent, above the revised budget estimate,” he said.
He said the Internal Revenue Division collected about $2.5 billion, which was $266 million, or 12 percent, above its target.
“Collections increased across company tax, personal income tax, withholding tax, sales tax, stamp duty and licence revenue. Customs and excise collections reached about $1.1 billion, an increase of around $51 million, or 5.5 percent, supported by stronger import and export duties and increased mining activity,” Lilo said.
He said the government also received about $308 million in budget support, exceeding the budgeted amount by approximately $204.9 million.
“On spending, recurrent expenditure reached $4.048 billion, representing 97.7 percent of the revised recurrent budget of $4.143 billion. Development expenditure stood at $791.6 million, or 79 percent of the revised development budget,” he said.
He said the Supplementary Appropriation Bill seeks Parliament’s approval to regularise $109.76 million spent through contingency and advance warrants in 2025.
“Of this, $2.5 million was spent under contingency warrants and about $107.3 million under advance warrants.
“The advance spending included $25.6 million for the social sector, mainly health support; $18.78 million for agriculture, nutrition, cybersecurity, provincial airport upgrades and fisheries; $21.7 million for the resource sector, including the Tina Hydropower project; and $41.3 million for auditing, statistics, child protection and the 2025 Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting,” he said.
Mr Lilo said government debt stood at about $4.2 billion by December 2025, equivalent to around 29 percent of GDP.
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BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
MINISTER for Finance and Treasury, Gordon Darcy Lilo, has announced that Cabinet has approved work on a new National Bank, with a Rural Bank component being developed in partnership with the World Bank.
Speaking in Parliament yesterday whilst delivering the Second Reading Speech of the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, Mr Lilo said the initiative is aimed squarely at rural banking, stressing that the new bank is not being created to compete with commercial banks for corporate business in Honiara.
He said a significant number of people across the country and communities remain beyond the reach of formal banking services, and have done so for years.
Mr Lilo pointed to the collapse of past credit unions, including Sintech Credit Union, as part of the broader context behind the Government’s push to revive rural banking.
He said he has personally been involved in efforts to establish rural banking services in the country around two decades ago, and expressed regret that those earlier efforts did not succeed.
The Minister said the Government intends to bring back the country’s own rural bank, describing it as a national initiative to extend banking services to Solomon Islanders who have long been excluded from the formal financial system.
He also flagged that reforms are needed to the Credit Union Act, indicating that some existing credit unions across the country may need to be wounded up as part of the broader push to strengthen the country’s financial sector.
The announcement was made as part of the Minister’s broader remarks on financial sector reform during debate on the Government’s supplementary budget.
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
TWO fuel tanks at Noro could generate between $5 million and $10 million in revenue for Western Province if the provincial government takes full ownership and control of the facilities.
Premier of Western Province, Billy Veo, made the remarks during his meeting with Prime Minister Matthew Wale this week.
Veo said the two fuel tanks are currently leased to Mark Warth Company, with the provincial government receiving about $1.3 million from the arrangement.
He said the amount is inadequate considering that the fuel facilities are owned by the Western Provincial Government.
Veo said the provincial government intends to terminate the existing lease arrangement with Mark Warth Company, which was established with the support of the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
He said the current lease agreement is not worthy of renewal because the province was receiving limited benefits from an asset it owns.
“The province is receiving only $1.3 million, but we believe these two fuel tanks have the potential to generate between $5 million and $10 million for the province,” Veo said.
He said taking full ownership and control of the facilities will create a greater economic return for the province and its people.
Veo said the provincial government will not sit back and continue to receive limited benefits from the fuel tanks but will pursue all necessary arrangements to secure full ownership and control of the facilities.
“We will not sit back and watch. We will pursue arrangements to obtain full ownership of the fuel tanks,” he said.
Responding to the proposal, Prime Minister Wale advised the Western Provincial Government to develop a clear strategy to obtain ownership of the facilities.
He also stressed the need for the province to determine how the assets will be administered once ownership is secured.
Wale said the national government is prepared to provide technical and legal assistance to support the province in its ambition to obtain full ownership of the fuel tanks.
The proposed takeover is expected to form part of the Western Provincial Government’s broader efforts to increase provincial revenue and maximise the economic benefits of assets located within the province.
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Australia, KFPL Partner to Strengthen Workforce and Community Wellbeing
Australia and Kolombangara Forest Products Ltd (KFPL) have partnered to strengthen workforce skills and support community wellbeing in the timber plantation sector on Kolombangara Island, Western Province.
The partnership will support two key activities: targeted on-site training for KFPL workers in vehicle and heavy machinery operation and maintenance, as well as administrative skills.
Australia will also support the upgrade of an Early Learning Centre for children of KFPL employees, helping working families access improved childcare services in the remote community.
KFPL is Solomon Islands’ only internationally certified sustainable forestry plantation and a major employer, providing jobs for around 1,000 Solomon Islanders. The company works closely with local landowners, generating income for communities while replanting trees for future generations.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said the partnership reflects Australia’s commitment to supporting a sustainable timber sector and inclusive economic development.
“Plantation forestry is an important part of Solomon Islands’ economic future,” Mr Roach said, noting that the sector creates jobs, supports landowner incomes and provides a sustainable alternative to logging natural forests.
KFPL General Manager Edwin Schramm welcomed the support, saying the training would help workers operate safely and efficiently while the Early Learning Centre would assist employees in providing care for their families.
The partnership is expected to contribute to KFPL’s long-term sustainability while supporting employees, landowners and surrounding communities.
[ENDS]/////
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
WHAT began with just $5,000 has grown into four years of involvement in the cocoa and copra industry for Malu’u-based entrepreneur, Lovelyn Saona.
Saona, 50, previously worked at the Mendana Hotel and Gold Ridge Mining before turning her attention to supporting farmers through commodity marketing.
She established Tefula Marketing, which initially worked with farmers in Honiara before she returned to Malu’u in North Malaita, where she expanded her involvement in cocoa and copra trading.
Today, Saona buys cocoa and copra from farmers and sells the commodities to the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA). She has also established an air dryer at Manaokwai, and is involved in planting cocoa trees and buying coconuts from farmers for copra production.
Saona said improving the flow of commodity trading remains important for farmers in rural communities. She calls on CEMA to ensure sufficient funds are consistently available to maintain buying and trading activities in the sector.
She also urges the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) to strengthen farmer training, so producers can improve their farming practices and increase production.
Saona said CEMA’s role in the commodity sector remains important, particularly in providing a market for farmers and exporting their produce.
CEMA’s Farmers First initiative is designed to bring the organisation closer to rural farmers by strengthening commodity marketing platforms and improving farmers’ access to markets.
For farmers and local traders such as Saona, reliable market access remains essential to sustain production and ensure rural communities can benefit from cocoa and copra.
Her experience reflects how local entrepreneurs can serve as an important link between farmers and formal commodity markets, helping rural producers turn their agricultural produce into income.
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Construction works at Honiara International Port are progressing well, with the project entering an important stage towards the planned extension and upgrading of the International Berth 1 Wharf.
Current construction activities include the fabrication and installation of temporary works as a crane platform as well as a pile guiding frame to support the next stage of piling activities for the seaward extension approximately 30 meters of International Berth 1 Wharf.
These temporary structures are critical enabling works for the next phase of construction that form an important part of the construction methodology and are designed to facilitate safe, controlled and efficient piling operations. The crane platform will provide a stable and secure working area for positioning and operating heavy construction equipment in the marine environment, while the pile guiding frame will help ensure that the foundation piles are installed to the required alignment, depth and technical specifications, which are critical to the structural integrity and long-term performance of the extended wharf.
Once the temporary works measures are completed, the contractor will be able to commence the next phase of installing the permanent piles for the seaward extension. This will represent another important milestone in the delivery of the upgraded port infrastructure.
The approximately 30-metre extension of International Berth 1 will improve the berth's operational capacity and functionality as well as supporting the safer and more efficient handling of vessels and cargo that are anticipated to use the facility over the 50-year design life.
The upgraded wharf infrastructure being provided under LMCP, which also includes the provision of two new domestic rural wharves at Kirakira, Makira Province and Ahanga, in Rennell Bellona Province, will contribute to improving the efficiency and reliability of maritime transport services in Solomon Islands and current improvements to the Honiara International Port, both in terms of capacity and capability, will further strengthen its' role as the country's major international maritime gateway.
The investment is also expected to support the country's growing trade and economic activities by providing improved port infrastructure capable of responding to future transport and logistics demands.
MID Acting Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mike Qaqara, said the continued progress of the works demonstrates the Government's commitment to improving critical transport infrastructure and supporting long-term economic development.
“The progress being achieved at Honiara International Port is encouraging and reflects the Government’s continued commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports the country’s economic growth and connectivity. The extension and upgrading of International Berth 1 will provide improved capacity and functionality for port operations and contribute to more efficient maritime transport services,” Mr. Qaqara said.
The International Berth Upgrade forms part of the broader infrastructure investment under the Land and Maritime Connectivity Project (LMCP), a flagship initiative led by the Solomon Islands Government and the Solomon Islands Port Authority, with financial and technical support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Solomon Islands.
The government aims to improve transport connectivity across the country by strengthening critical road and maritime infrastructure, thereby supporting economic growth, trade and improved access to essential goods and services.
The Solomon Islands Government remains committed to delivering sustainable and climate-resilient transport infrastructure that supports national development priorities and enhances the efficiency, reliability and safety of the country's transport systems.
Australia and Solomon Islands move to deepen their partnership through a proposed comprehensive bilateral treaty and cooperation. Last week I was honoured to host Prime Minister Wale and ten Cabinet members to my residence for a reception, where I had the opportunity to thank over 200 guests – Members of Parliament, senior government officials, business, [...]
The post The Next Chapter of Our Partnership appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Finance minister raises concern over absence of visible capital inflows from mining
Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo has raised concerns over the lack of visible capital inflows from the mining sector into Solomon Islands’ national accounts despite gold exports projected to increase to around $3.4 billion.
He said the Government will treat the matter seriously and commit to examining the issue further, describing it as a problem that needs to be addressed.
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https://theislandsun.com.sb/finance-minister-raises.../
PM Wale discusses stronger economic ties with Indonesia, focusing on agriculture, education, skills and investment opportunities. PRIME Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has discussed strengthening economic ties and deepening cooperation in agriculture and education with Indonesia. These were key areas of discussion with Indonesia’s Ambassador to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Octo Dorimus Manik when he made [...]
The post PM WALE DISCUSSES ECONOMIC TIES WITH INDONESIA appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
瓦尔总理讨论与印尼的经济关系,重点关注农业、教育、技能和投资机会。瓦尔总理(Hon. Matthew Wale)与印尼驻所罗门群岛大使奥克托·多里穆斯·马尼克(His Excellency Octo Dorimus Manik)讨论了加强经济关系和深化在农业和教育领域的合作。这些是......
该文章最初发布在 Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)上。
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Government is pushing ahead with major reforms to Solomon Islands’ tax system, with Minister of Finance and Treasury Gordon Darcy Lilo warning that tax exemptions and abuse are costing the country much-needed revenue.
Lilo made the remarks in Parliament this morning while outlining the Government’s fiscal performance and its plans to reform the tax system.
Speaking in Parliament during debate on the 2026 Supplementary Appropriation Bill, Lilo said the Government wants a tax system that is “fair, simple, broad and even-handed”, with individuals and businesses contributing their proper share.
“We want to provide tax relief, but at the same time do not tolerate tax abuse,” Lilo said.
He described tax reform as one of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury’s major areas of progress.
He said Parliament has already passed the Tax Administration Act as the first stage of the reform programme.
Lilo said the Act will strengthen tax administration and governance, improve compliance and support better revenue collection.
“The Government is also preparing legislation for a broad-based consumption tax system, including a proposed value-added tax (VAT), which is expected to come before Parliament this year,” he said.
He also announced plans for a third rewrite of the Income Tax Act.
Lilo said income tax will need to come down “a little bit”, while excise taxes will also need to remain low to balance the proposed VAT system.
He said the Government is also looking at how essential services such as electricity and water will be treated under the new tax system.
The Minister said tax exemptions should not simply allow money to leave the country without contributing to the domestic economy.
He pointed to the removal of import duty exemptions previously granted to the country’s two major oil-importing companies.
Lilo said the Government removed the exemptions after fuel prices rose sharply, and argued that removing the exemptions had not resulted in the price increases that were initially feared.
“Meanwhile, tax collections remained strong in the first half of 2026. Inland Revenue collected about $1.6 billion by June, representing 49 percent of its annual target and $223 million above the six-month budget target,” he said.
Lilo attributed the strong performance to stronger economic activity, improved tax compliance and increased collections from company tax, withholding tax and personal income tax, particularly from the mining sector.
“The Government has now revised its full-year Inland Revenue collection target upward to about $3.2 billion, an increase of $383 million. However, sales tax collections were about $4.9 million below the six-month forecast.
“Customs and excise collections also underperformed, reaching about $499 million, or $60.9 million below the six-month budget target. The shortfall was mainly linked to weaker export and import duty collections,” he said.
Lilo said the Government’s tax reforms intend to strengthen domestic revenue and ensure public services have a more reliable source of funding.
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