Wed, 29 Jul 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates · Business & Economy

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

INDEPENDENT LEADER CALLS FOR URGENT GOVERNMENT ACTION ON ILLEGAL MINING AT GOLD RIDGE

HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS – The Leader of the Independent Members in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Central Guadalcanal Honourable Peter Shanel Agovaka has called on the GREAT Coalition Government, law enforcement agencies, and all relevant authorities to urgently address the growing problem of illegal mining activities at Gold Ridge. The continued proliferation of illegal [...] The post INDEPENDENT LEADER CALLS FOR URGENT GOVERNMENT ACTION ON ILLEGAL MINING AT GOLD RIDGE appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Keto Seaweed Farm’s Expansion Brings New Hope to Isabel Communities

Australia and Keto Seaweed Farm, an indigenous business based in Isabel Province, have signed a new partnership to increase seaweed... The post Keto Seaweed Farm’s Expansion Brings New Hope to Isabel Communities appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Agovaka Urges Gov’t to Address Illegal Mining at Gold Ridge

Government and police are urged to urgently step in and address the growing problem of illegal mining at Gold Ridge... The post Agovaka Urges Gov’t to Address Illegal Mining at Gold Ridge appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

#Opportunity | Request for Expressions of Interest - Seafood Expo Asia 2026

| Request for Expressions of Interest - Seafood Expo Asia 2026 FFA is inviting eligible Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) tuna companies from FFA Member countries to express their interest in participating in Seafood Expo Asia 2026, one of the region's leading seafood trade events. Event: Seafood Expo Asia 2026 Location: Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Singapore Dates: 2-4 September 2026 As part of its continued commitment to supporting private sector development in the tuna industry, FFA will sponsor a Pacific Pavilion, enabling selected SME tuna companies from FFA Member countries to promote their products and engage directly with international buyers and industry stakeholders. FFA sponsorship includes: Return economy airfare to Singapore for participating companies Exhibition space within the Pacific Pavilion Opportunity to connect with seafood buyers, importers and industry leaders Exposure to new markets and potential business partnerships Please note: Participating companies are responsible for their own daily living expenses during the event. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the Expression of Interest (EOI). Applications will be assessed by FFA based on the published selection criteria. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase Pacific tuna products, expand your international network, and strengthen your presence in the growing Asian seafood market. Submit your Expression of Interest: Email: luisa.tagicakibau@ffa.int Deadline: 31 July 2026 Full details and the EOI are available here https://www.ffa.int/.../request-for-expressions-of.../

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FFA Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Australia Helps Pacific Islands Dodge Worst of Aid Cuts

by Noah Secomb of AAP in Canberra International funding and financing for the Pacific Islands has largely avoided the worst... The post Australia Helps Pacific Islands Dodge Worst of Aid Cuts appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

SIART Project Delivers Lasting Benefits to Rural Farmers Ahead of Project Completion

SIART Project Delivers Lasting Benefits to Rural Farmers Ahead of Project Completion HONIARA, Wednesday 29 July – The Solomon Islands Agriculture Rural Transformation (SIART) Project has made significant progress in improving agricultural production and strengthening rural livelihoods across Guadalcanal, Malaita and Makira/Ulawa provinces as it approaches the end of its implementation. The achievements were highlighted during the World Bank's seventh implementation support mission to Honiara, held from 13 to 17 July 2026. The SIART Project, funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL), was reviewed by a World Bank delegation led by Senior Agriculture Specialist and Task Team Leader Abimbola Adubi, alongside Senior Agriculture Specialist Allan Oliver and staff from the World Bank's Honiara Country Office. The mission assessed progress under the project's key components, including agribusiness and infrastructure investments and institutional capacity development, to ensure implementation remains on track before the project's scheduled closure on 31 December 2026. The review also examined procurement, financial management, environmental and social safeguard measures, as well as data collection systems and the rollout of the project's management information system. Findings from the mission were discussed with the Solomon Islands Government. Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Franklyn Derek Wasi, welcomed the progress achieved under the project, describing it as a major contribution to the country's agricultural development. "As the SIART Project draws closer to its conclusion, I am pleased to note the steadfast progress it has made over the last year. It is our strong view that the World Bank-funded SIART Project has left a positive legacy in agricultural development in Solomon Islands," Minister Wasi said. Under its infrastructure program, SIART is supporting the construction of new agriculture office buildings in Auki and Kirakira, the renovation of MAL's research headquarters, slaughter facility and piggery shelter at King George east of Honiara, and the detailed design of the Ministry's proposed Research Centre of Excellence at Tenaru. The project has also established 96 Agribusiness Producer Organisations (ABPOs)—45 in Malaita, 32 in Guadalcanal and 19 in Makira/Ulawa—representing more than SBD35 million in grant investments to support rural farmers and agribusinesses. In addition, SIART has recruited and trained more than 40 young professionals as junior extension officers. The graduates are assisting farmers, strengthening provincial agriculture offices and building local agribusiness capacity, while gaining valuable experience that could lead to future employment within the Ministry. World Bank Task Team Leader Abimbola Adubi acknowledged the progress made since the project's inception and encouraged the Project Management Unit to maintain momentum during the final months of implementation. Discussions are continuing on how the achievements of the project can be sustained beyond its completion and how the remaining activities can be successfully delivered. SIART Project Manager William Okekini said the project remains on track to achieve its development objectives before it concludes at the end of the year. "On behalf of the project team, we acknowledge the World Bank and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock for your continuous support and confidence entrusted to the team to deliver positive outcomes for our rural farmers," Mr Okekini said. The SIART Project focuses on helping farmers and agri-entrepreneurs through Agribusiness Producer Organisations by providing grants, agricultural equipment, technical support and business development assistance to help rural communities transition from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. The project has also delivered extensive training programs in partnership with Ministry specialists to strengthen farming skills, business management and the long-term sustainability of rural agricultural enterprises. This version is suitable for publication in a newspaper, news website, or Facebook news page. ENDS////////////////

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ZFM 99.5 Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

In the Pacific, energy security, economic resilience and sustainable development are deeply interconnected.

In the Pacific, energy security, economic resilience and sustainable development are deeply interconnected. When global fuel markets fluctuate, the effects are often felt longer and more intensely across island economies. The costs ripple through households, public services and national budgets. In her final dispatch from the Pacific, UNDP in Asia and the Pacific Regional Director, Kanni Wignaraja, joins our Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel, to discuss why these "spikes and lags" matter. And, why investing in resilient, renewable energy systems is one of the most effective ways to strengthen development gains and reduce vulnerability across the Blue Pacific. Read the blog: https://www.undp.org/.../spikes-and-lags-draw-out-energy... Read the explainer: https://www.undp.org/.../field-notes-energy-transition...

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UNDP Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Farmers First – from pushing wheelbarrow to owning truck

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA Latest production data reveals that Guadalcanal Province ranks second only to Makira-Ulawa Province in cocoa and copra production. This demonstrates that cocoa and copra farmers on Guadalcanal remain productive despite challenges such as poor transportation, aging plantations, and limited access to cash. Among the many hardworking farmers is Nael Kennan from Marumbo Village in West Guadalcanal. Kennan’s journey is a remarkable example of perseverance. He once pushed a wheelbarrow along the roads of Marumbo to buy copra from fellow farmers while tending his own coconut plantation. Today, he owns a half-tonne truck purchased with the income he earned from copra production. For Kennan, copra is more than just a source of income—it is his livelihood. He supplies copra to the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) twice a week, delivering an average of 70 bags on each trip. His success has also enabled him to give back to his community. Whether it is supporting church fundraising activities or assisting fellow farmers in need, Nael is always willing to lend a helping hand. Kennan admitted that in previous years he sold his copra to other buyers. However, this year he made the decision to remain with CEMA. He said several factors influenced his decision, including CEMA’s stable copra prices, assistance with freight costs, and, most importantly, the excellent customer service provided by CEMA staff. “The staff members at CEMA are friendly, helpful and understand my situation as a farmer,” Kennan said. Kennan also believes CEMA has a better understanding of the needs and challenges faced by local farmers than other buyers. Kennan’s story is a positive reflection of CEMA’s Farmers First vision, which seeks to empower farmers to maximise the value of their produce and improve their livelihoods. Many farmers have experienced positive changes since the introduction of CEMA’s Agents and Traders Scheme, an initiative designed to strengthen farmers’ participation in the industry and improve their access to markets. For too long, many farmers felt they were kept at arm’s length and were not regarded as an integral part of CEMA’s growth and development. The current administration is committed to changing that perception by placing farmers at the heart of CEMA’s work and recognising them as key partners in the organisation’s success. Stories like Kennan’s demonstrate that this approach is producing positive results, empowering farmers to improve their livelihoods and invest in a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities. Photo: Supplied For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Visa-free travel ahead for Hong Kong

BY CHARLES STENNETT Solomon Islands and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, HKSAR, of the People’s Republic of China will officially implement a reciprocal visa-free travel arrangement, effective as of August 26. A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) yesterday said the arrangement follows the successful exchange of diplomatic Notes between the Solomon Islands Embassy in Beijing and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It said the agreement marks another important milestone in strengthening the friendly relations between Solomon Islands and HKSAR. Under the agreement, nationals of Solomon Islands holding valid Solomon Islands passports and permanent residents of Hong Kong SAR holding valid HKSAR passports will be exempt from visa requirements for entry, exit, transit and temporary stays in each other’s territories. Visitors will be permitted to stay for up to 30 days on each visit without the need to obtain a visa. The visa-free arrangement is expected to promote greater people-to-people exchanges, facilitate tourism, encourage business and investment opportunities and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. For feedback, contact: charsstennett@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Gold Ridge mining company blocks media access to landslide site

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA The Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) has blocked access to a group of media personnel citing company protocol. President of the media association (MASI) has expressed disappointment highlighting the need for independent coverage and verification of facts to what is being described as a ‘major national issue’. Yesterday morning, following circulation of various information surrounding the landslide at GRML’s Pit-1, which was reported to be potentially fatal, MASI gathered journalists from local media houses and ABC to go up to the mine site to verify facts on the incident. However, they were turned away by GRML at the gate – a notice said media is not permitted entry unless approval was granted by management. No company official was made available to brief media on the situation, despite mounting public interest in the incident. President of MASI Ofani Eremae said he was disappointed that media is denied access to the Gold Ridge Mining site. Mr Eremae said the media plays a vital role to keep the country informed, and that authorities should make themselves readily available and accessible to journalists, particularly during a matter of such national significance. He said the purpose of the media visit was to gather accurate information and establish the facts surrounding the incident amid the rumours and speculation circulating on social media and in the community. “There was no one there who could actually provide information for the media, and this is a major national issue,” Eremae said. He calls on GRML, the Ministry of Mines, and relevant authorities to continually keep media informed on developments relating to the landslide. Eremae also urged caution among members of the public using social media, noting that this is a sensitive incident involving the loss of lives, and that responsibility for careful reporting extends beyond the media alone. “Information shared with the public should promote peace, stability, and understanding, especially during sensitive situations such as this,” Eremae said. Monday morning, Island Sun and few other media outlets went to Gold Ridge in the effort to gauge facts surrounding the landslide after social media posts broke the news. However, they were all told to turn around at GRML’s gate. GRML later that day issued a statement distancing the company from the incident saying that no company personnel was injured nor company machine damaged. Reports emanating from members of public who were on ground zero, which flooded social media, indicated that some people were buried in the landslide. Island Sun could not independently verify the various information coming from the area. Officers of Tetere police station, which is the closest police post to the station, told Island Sun they were part of efforts to keep public away from the landslide area and recovery work. The officers, speaking to Island Sun under condition of anonymity due to police protocol not to speak to media, shared that following the landslide on Monday, members of public in the area had come forward reporting relatives who were missing and suspected to be buried under the rubble. When asked, the officers said the number of missing people reported to them was ‘more than 10’ and could not give a specific number. Social media posts and comments on Monday had taken the number as high as 20 missing people. Police in a statement yesterday confirmed the recovery of one body. Police said investigations are ongoing as well as work to search the rubble. For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Cohort 8 of WELSI’s women leadership program currently underway

Cohort 8 of WELSI’s women leadership program currently underway Wednesday 29 July, Honiara - The eighth delivery of the Solomon Islands Senior Executive Women in Leadership Program is currently underway with the last two days scheduled for Wednesday 29th and Thursday 30th in Honiara. The program was initially devised in partnership with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), the Solomon Islands Women in Business Association (SIWIBA), and the Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) with support from the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI). Since 2025, the program continues to be delivered by the Women in Executive Leadership Solomon Islands (WELSI) after its registration as a professional network that supports and connects women in senior leadership and executive roles across the Solomon Islands. The objective is to advance gender development and social inclusion in terms of providing relevant professional development of women in senior executive roles, providing support and networks to advance professional women into CEO and board positions. As Lead Facilitator of the program, Ms. Lilly Lomulo is passionate about empowering women executives with knowledge, confidence and cultivating opportunity for them to be transformative leaders, be better versions of themselves and be positive changemakers as professionals. ““It has been inspiring to witness our executives recognize their potential and embrace the value they bring to their workplaces and communities,” she said. This four-day program is designed for women who are already making an impact in their organizations and communities, and who are ready to strengthen their leadership journey even further.” Eighteen (18) participants are currently attending the current delivery representing different organisations mostly from the private sector, State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) and the public sector. Over the four-day program, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of governance, sharpen their financial and risk management skills, and strengthen their professional brand. They will hear from leaders who have walked the leadership path who will share insights that will inspire participants and guide them on their own professional and leadership journey. WELSI hopes that after the four-day training, these aspiring women leaders will not only leave with new knowledge, but also with stronger networks, greater confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. “WELSI’s aim is for every participant to leave this program with practical tools they can apply immediately in their professional and personal leadership journeys, as well as greater confidence in their ability to lead and influence,” WELSI Vice President, Mrs. Dinna Irofufuli, said. “Leadership is not about waiting until you feel completely ready, because the truth is, many of us never do. It is about continuously building the knowledge, skills, and confidence to step forward when opportunities arise,” she added. Mrs. Irofufuli stressed that through this program, WELSI is investing in the capacity of women leaders and helping to create a stronger, more inclusive leadership landscape for the Solomon Islands. With this recent cohort of the program, WELSI and the partner organisations look forward to continuing with this program and aim to build a pool of business and professional women with relevant knowledge and skills required to enable them to effectively participate in the decision-making process at higher organizational levels. The Solomon Islands Senior Executive Women in Leadership Program is a program for women in executive and senior management roles who want to deepen their knowledge of business operations, develop strong networks with their senior women, build confidence in areas including governance, and refresh their professional brand. -WELSI Media Release

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SBM Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

MALD Hands Over SBD 1.34 million Dollars to Support Indigenous Agribusinesses Under the GREAT Government Agriculture Policy

MALD Hands Over SBD 1.34 million Dollars to Support Indigenous Agribusinesses Under the GREAT Government Agriculture Policy & The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) [...]

SIG Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Fisheries Minister Hon. Polycarp Paea this morning, officially handed over 50 boats and OBM to seaweed farmers.

Fisheries Minister Hon. Polycarp Paea this morning, officially handed over 50 boats and OBM to seaweed farmers. It is hoped that the boats and OBMs will boost seaweed production in the country especially in terms of transportation. The Solomon Islands government is funding this project.// MFMR Media

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MFMR Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Gold Ridge Mining Responds to MASI Concerns Over Media Access

Gold Ridge Mining Responds to MASI Concerns Over Media Access Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) has responded to concerns raised by the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) after journalists were denied access to the Gold Ridge mine following Monday's deadly landslide on Tuesday 28 July 2026.

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Solomon Star Business & Economy · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Gold Ridge Tragedy: Illegal Mine Entry Blamed as Recovery Continues

Gold Ridge Mining Ltd (GRML) says the person whose body was recovered from the debris this morning following Monday’s ground... The post Gold Ridge Tragedy: Illegal Mine Entry Blamed as Recovery Continues appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Our Telekom Promotes Free Fibre Installation and Modem

FREE installation. FREE modem. What's stopping you? 🔥 Bring your home to life with Our Telekom Home Broadband - Fibre to the Home. Seamless connection, unlimited data, and unbeatable rates, so the whole household can stream, work, study, and stay connected without interruption. See an FDT near your home? You could be fibre-ready right now.

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Our Telekom Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

MALD Awards SBD 1.34 Million to Indigenous Agribusinesses

MALD Hands Over SBD 1.34 million Dollars to Support Indigenous Agribusinesses Under the GREAT Government Agriculture Policy The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD) has reaffirmed the GREAT Government's commitment to strengthening indigenous agribusinesses by handing over SBD 1,343,940 in Commercial Agriculture Development Project (CADP) Support Fund grants to four local enterprises today at the ministry’s headquarter in Honiara. The funding will support value-adding, downstream processing, farmer to market access, and post-harvest development under the Government's agriculture policy, to increase local production through consistent access to markets, create employment, and improve rural livelihoods. The recipients are Cathliro Commodities Development Ltd (SBD724,000) to complete its chocolate processing factory in Honiara, SOLKAVA Exporter (SBD313,940) to secure international marketing standards, procure kava from provincial farmers and complete its processing facility infrastructure, Goshen Enterprise (SBD200,000) to procure taro, support transportation, and provide post-harvest training for farmers in Malaita Province and MNEM Investment (SBD106,000) to procure and transport kava for processing, packaging and trade. Speaking during the handover ceremony, Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Development Hon Franklyn Derek Wasi said the grants represent the Government's confidence in local entrepreneurs and its strong will to grow the agricultural sector through partnerships with indigenous businesses. "We value your partnership and commitment to supporting the development of our country. Supporting local agribusinesses is an investment in the future of our economy, and I am confident you will use this assistance for its intended purpose to grow your businesses and create opportunities for your communities," he said. The Minister emphasized that the funding forms part of the first round of support delivered under the GREAT Government and demonstrates its commitment to empowering indigenous entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands. He also reminded recipients that the grants are public funds entrusted to them on behalf of the people of Solomon Islands. "These are public funds. The money does not belong to the Minister or the Ministry it belongs to the people of Solomon Islands. We ask all recipients to use these funds responsibly and strictly for their intended purpose." On behalf of the recipients, Shirly Teioli of SOLKAVA Exporter thanked the Government for investing in local agribusinesses and rural farming communities. "This financial assistance marks a significant milestone for our enterprise. It enables us to improve our processing capacity, meet international quality standards, and create a more reliable and sustainable source of income for our rural farmers, particularly women and young people. We pledge to use these funds transparently and for their intended purpose," she said. Representing Cathliro Commodities Development Ltd, Thomas Chan said the funding would enable the company to complete its chocolate processing factory and expand opportunities for farmers. "These funds are greatly needed to complete our downstream processing facility. Once operational, it will allow us to add value to our products, create employment, improve market access, and provide greater support to our farmers and local communities." Max Lazarus, Managing Director of MNEM Investment, described the funding as an investment in building a stronger agricultural value chain for Solomon Islands. "Our vision is to see Solomon Islands products recognised not simply as commodities but as quality products that proudly carry the name of our country. By connecting farmers with processors and export markets, we can create lasting opportunities for farming communities across all provinces." Levite Maesimae, Director of Goshen Enterprise, said the support would strengthen local production and benefit farmers in Malaita Province. "This funding is a significant investment in the future of our business. It will strengthen our operations, expand production capacity, and help us better serve our farmers, customers, and communities. We are committed to using these funds responsibly." The ceremony was also witnessed by MNEM Investment business partner Benjamin Masoe, Director of Serenco Labs Auckland and Kava Pure Extraction, who commended the Solomon Islands Government for supporting the private sector and promoting value addition. "I congratulate the Government for this important initiative. Solomon Islands kava has exceptional potential, and with the right investment, strong partnerships, and continued Government support, it can become a premium product recognised in international markets." Under the CADP Fund Agreements, recipients are required to use the grants only for approved activities, submit monthly financial and progress reports, and comply with Government monitoring and auditing requirements. The agreements ensure accountability while supporting sustainable commercial agriculture and encouraging greater private sector participation. The grant handover marks a significant milestone in the implementation of the GREAT Government's agriculture policy, reinforcing MALD's commitment to building resilient agribusinesses, increasing value-added exports, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods for farming communities throughout the Solomon Islands. Ends// MALD Press Release

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MAL Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Wale Unveils Sweeping Mining Overhaul to Secure Nation’s Future

by Charley Piringi Prime Minister Matthew Wale has announced an ambitious regulatory overhaul of the Solomon Islands’ mineral sector, anchored... The post Wale Unveils Sweeping Mining Overhaul to Secure Nation’s Future appeared first on In-depth Solomons .

In-depth Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

MASI President Disappointed After Media Denied Access to Gold Ridge Landslide Site

BY JOY OFASIA The President of the Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI), Ofani Eremae, has expressed disappointment after members of the media were denied access to the Gold Ridge mining site following the landslide incident that occurred on 27 July 2026. Speaking to journalists this afternoon, Mr Eremae said the purpose of the media visit was to gather accurate information and establish the facts surrounding the incident amid widespread rumours and speculation. “The media travelled to Gold Ridge to find the true story. There has been a lot of rumours and speculation about the incident, and reporters went there to verify the facts. Unfortunately, the media was not allowed to enter the site where the incident to occurred, and there was no official available to provide the information that journalists were seeking,” he said. Mr Eremae stressed that the media plays a vital role in informing the public and said authorities should make themselves available to answer questions from journalists, particularly during incidents of national significance. He said the Gold Ridge landslide is a major national issue and that the public expects timely and accurate information from the mining company, the Government, and the Ministry of Mines. “This is a significant incident involving the lives of our people. Citizens deserve to be informed about what has happened and the actions being taken,” he said. Mr Eremae also called for responsibility in the sharing of information, especially on social media, noting that the incident is highly sensitive. He urged both the media and members of the public to be sure that information shared is accurate and does not cause hatred, misinformation, or unnecessary tension. “Information shared with the public should promote peace, stability, and understanding, especially during sensitive situations such as this,” he said.

Sunday Isles Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

A dead body recovered after landslide at Gold Ridge Mining

A dead body recovered after landslide at Gold Ridge Mining & A dead body has been recovered after a landslide at Pit 1 at Gold Ridge [...]

SIG Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

GREAT Coalition Pushes Key Law and Policy Reforms with the Ministry of Commerce

Honiara, 28 July 2026: The Great Coalition has advanced its reform agenda with the Prime Minister’s Policy Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit (PIMEU) holding its second round of consultations with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration. The consultation was led by PIMEU’s Legislative and Policy Reform Subcommittee, supported by the Productive Sector Unit within the Prime Minister’s Office. Senior management and representatives from all nine divisions of the Ministry took part. The Ministry oversees Business, Cooperatives and SME, Industry development, immigration, labour, trade disputes, foreign investment, companies, charitable trusts and other key regulatory functions. It plays a central role in shaping the legal and policy environment to attract investment, support business growth, create jobs and drive sustainable economic development. Discussions focused on reviewing each division’s work programme, identifying legislative and policy priorities, and aligning reforms with the Government’s agenda. Permanent Secretary Mr Riley Mesepitu welcomed the initiative. “This is a practical and constructive approach to improving the pace of reform,” Mr Mesepitu said. “With closer collaboration and direct legal and policy support from the Prime Minister’s Office, our reform programmes can finally gain the momentum they need.” Mr Mesepitu said effective reform requires Government ownership and adequate resources. “This committee is an important first step. Going forward, this support must be matched with adequate resourcing and timely budget funding so reforms can be implemented without unnecessary delays.” He highlighted several priority reforms, including: Modernising immigration services through electronic passport and visa systems Amending laws on foreign investment, companies and business regulation Reviewing labour legislation and wage policies to support growth while protecting workers’ rights “Our objective is to create a modern, efficient and investor-friendly regulatory environment,” he said. “We welcome responsible investment into the Solomon Islands and are committed to ensuring our systems are responsive and supportive of business. We also recognise the Great Coalition Government’s emphasis on promoting indigenous participation in the economy and moving into the digital age.” Head of the Productive Sector Unit, Mr Nixon Kua, also welcomed the outcome. “It is encouraging to see every division actively reviewing its work programme against Government priorities,” Mr Kua said. “These consultations are about ensuring ministries receive the support they need to deliver reforms more effectively and ultimately improve services to our people.” The Legislative and Policy Reform consultation programme will continue across Government ministries as part of the GREAT Coalition’s commitment to strengthening governance, modernising legislation, improving service delivery, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable economic growth and private sector development.

Sunday Isles Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

GREAT Coalition pushes key law and policy reforms with Ministry of Commerce

GREAT Coalition pushes key law and policy reforms with Ministry of Commerce & Honiara, 28 July 2026: The Great Coalition has advanced its reform agenda with [...]

SIG Business & Economy · 2026-07-28 Original ↗