Prime Minister Hon Rick Houenipwela recognizes the private sector as the driving force for economic growth in the Solomon Islands.

Speaking during the 10^th Australia-Solomon Islands Business Forum Wednesday last week in Brisbane, Hon Houenipwela reaffirmed his Government’s continuous support towards the private sector and in creating an enabling business environment.

The Business Forum, hosted by the Australia Pacific Islands Business Council in partnership with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), the peak organization representing private sector in the country.

The Forum brings together senior Australian and Solomon Islands business and government representatives to hear and discuss information on current issues relating to doing business in the Solomon Islands.

“The Solomon Islands Democratic Coalition for Change Government (SIDCCG) appreciates and affirms that the private sector has been the driving force for economic growth in the Solomon Islands and will continue to do so.

“As such, it is my Government’s intention to continue to encourage and support private sector engagement and participation in key economic areas in development of Solomon Islands,” the Prime Minister said.

Hon Houenipwela, who is also a former Governor of the Central Bank and former Finance Minister, said the Solomon Islands has and is enjoying a steadily growing economy over the last few years and more recently offers solid opportunities for business in areas such as infrastructure services, tourism development, sustainable forestry, agri-industry and fisheries.

“Having said that, the Government recognises that for the private sector to operate effectively it needs a good enabling business environment.

“An environment that allows businesses to operate competitively, grow and prosper.

“An environment where investors and businesses are confident to do business. This includes employment opportunities,” he said.

The Prime Minister highlighted the MoU signed with SICCI in 2017 as paving the way for more meaningful participation between the Private Sector and Government, to further the Government’s policy on private sector participation in the economic future of Solomon Islands.

“I am pleased to state that the MOU has been an excellent platform for policy dialogue between SIG and the Private Sector,” he said.