BY JOY OFASIA
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) Riley Mesepitu highlighted Innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices have been highlighted as critical to the future of Solomon Islands’ economy.
The PS highlighted this during his opening remarks as the country officially marks the opening of the National Annual Trade Fair 2026 today.
Mesepitu said this year’s theme, “Innovating Today for a Sustainable Greater Solomon Islands Tomorrow,” is timely as economies around the world continue to be reshaped by innovation, technology and sustainable business practices.
The Permanent Secretary said innovation for Solomon Islands should not be viewed simply as the adoption of new technologies, but as finding practical solutions that can create employment, improve livelihoods, strengthen local industries and add value to the country’s natural resources.
He stressed that economic growth must also ensure that its benefits are widely shared among Solomon Islanders.
He said the National Annual Trade Fair has become one of MCILI’s flagship events bringing together everyone.
“The event has become one of MCILI’s flagship events, bringing together local businesses, government institutions, investors, artisans, farmers, fishers, manufacturers and service providers,” he said.
Held at FOPA Village, the fair provides an important platform for businesses and organizations to showcase locally produced goods, highlight investment opportunities and encourage the next generation of entrepreneurs.
According to the Permanent Secretary, the significance of a trade fair extends beyond the display of products.
The PS said the Trade Fair are more than exhibitions noting that they provide opportunities for ideas to be exchanged, partnerships to be formed, markets to be expanded and innovation to be encouraged.
He said every conversation, product displayed and connection made during the event has the potential to contribute to strengthening the national economy.
The Permanent Secretary encouraged members of the public attending the fair to visit the exhibition booths, engage with exhibitors, discover locally made products and support businesses investing in the future of Solomon Islands.
He then invited the Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration to deliver the keynote address and formally declare the National Annual Trade Fair 2026 open.
