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.
