The Government has officially repealed the Coconut and Coconut Product Management Fees Regulations 2026, in a decisive move aimed at protecting farmers, sustaining exporters, and ensuring the long-term growth of the coconut industry.
The repeal was made by the acting Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labor and Immigration (MCILI), Hon. Manasseh Damukana Sogavare, under Section 34 of the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) Act (Cap. 36), following recommendations from the Authority.
The revoked regulation, previously gazetted as Legal Notice No. 162 of 2026, is now nullified with immediate effect from the date of publication in the Gazette.
The decision to repeal the fee reflects the Government’s strong commitment to our farmers and exporters approach under the CEMA Revitalization and Recapitalization Strategy.
Simon Chottu, Director of the CEMA Cabinet Sub-Committee, stated:
“GNUT remains firmly committed to working in partnership with our farmers, exporters, provincial governments, and development partners to build a resilient, inclusive, and high-value commodities sector that delivers real income, stability, and long-term growth for our people.”
Initial assessments and consultations are needed as it indicated that the proposed management fees risked placing additional financial pressure on exporters, which could ultimately be passed down to farmers through reduced farmgate prices.
By repealing the regulation, Government is ensuring that:
- Farmers are protected from indirect price reductions
- Exporters remain competitive in the global market
- The coconut sector continues to grow without unnecessary regulatory burden
The Government acknowledges that while regulatory frameworks are important, they must be carefully balanced to support—not hinder—industry development.
This repeal demonstrates a responsive and evidence-based approach to policymaking, ensuring that decisions align with:
- Market realities
- Stakeholder feedback
- National economic priorities
The GNUT’s intention to revitalize CEMA is centered on intensifying efforts to drive downstream processing and value addition, improve farmgate prices through targeted market interventions, and strengthen the entire production-to-market value chain.
This approach aims to transform the commodities sector from a raw export-based model into a high-value, inclusive, and sustainable industry that delivers greater returns to farmers and contributes meaningfully to national economic growth.
The focus remains on transforming Solomon Islands from a raw commodity exporter to a value-added producer, particularly in coconut and cocoa industries.
