SICCI
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Voice of the Private Sector
As the authoritative voice of the private sector in Solomon Islands, SICCI shapes the policies that determine whether businesses can thrive. Since 1978, we have championed evidence-based reforms that deliver jobs, drive growth, and create opportunities for all Solomon Islanders.
Annually to government
Sector working groups
Of the formal private sector
Since 1978
As the peak body representing the private sector in Solomon Islands, SICCI holds a unique and powerful mandate. Our members employ approximately 80% of the formal private sector workforce – meaning when SICCI speaks, we speak for the enterprises that drive Solomon Islands' economic engine, create jobs, generate tax revenue, and support livelihoods across every province.
This representative authority gives SICCI's advocacy significant weight in national policy discussions. Government ministries, development partners, and regional organizations recognize SICCI as the authoritative private sector voice. We don't just comment on policy – we shape it through evidence-based research, constructive dialogue, and persistent engagement at all levels of government.
Our advocacy wins are documented and measurable: customs systems modernized, tax thresholds increased, licenses simplified, infrastructure funded, and support packages secured. Every year, through our budget submission, Economic Reform Unit participation, ministerial consultations, and parliamentary submissions, SICCI ensures business perspectives don't just get heard – they get acted upon. Because when business thrives, Solomon Islands thrives.
We conduct evidence-based research to understand business needs and develop data-driven policy positions that address real challenges facing the private sector.
We facilitate ongoing dialogue between business and government through forums, working groups, and direct ministerial engagement.
We represent member interests in policy discussions, budget consultations, and legislative reviews at all levels of government.
Our advocacy efforts focus on policy areas that have the greatest impact on business competitiveness and economic development in Solomon Islands.
SICCI works closely with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury on tax policy design, providing business impact assessments and recommendations for fair, growth-oriented taxation. Our annual budget submissions present costed proposals on tax rates, thresholds, incentives, and compliance simplification. Current priorities include maintaining competitive corporate tax rates, expanding SME tax relief, reducing compliance costs, and ensuring tax policies support rather than hinder business investment and job creation.
As Solomon Islands integrates into regional and global markets, SICCI advocates for trade policies and infrastructure that enable businesses to export competitively. We represent the private sector on trade agreement implementation committees, provide input on rules of origin and product standards, and push for customs modernization. SICCI organizes trade missions, facilitates export certifications, and connects members with international buyers, while advocating for reduced trade transaction costs and improved port efficiency.
Burdensome registration and licensing requirements remain a major barrier to business formalization and growth. SICCI is leading advocacy for a 'one-stop shop' business registration system, consolidation of multiple license requirements, and digitalization of registration processes. Our 2022 position paper presented detailed proposals now being piloted in Honiara. We continue pushing for rollout nationwide, online application systems, and reducing the time and cost to start and operate a business legally in Solomon Islands.
Reliable infrastructure is fundamental to business operations and competitiveness. SICCI advocates for increased investment in energy generation and distribution, telecommunications networks, inter-island shipping, road networks, and digital connectivity. We document infrastructure gaps through member surveys, present infrastructure priorities to government, and engage with development partners on project design. Current priorities include energy reliability, affordable internet access, improved inter-island transport, and climate-resilient infrastructure that supports business continuity.
Skills shortages are consistently identified as a top business constraint. SICCI partners with TVET institutions to align training with industry needs, advocates for apprenticeship incentives, and supports workforce development programs. We conduct regular skills gap assessments, provide industry input to curriculum design, and connect members with training providers. Priority areas include hospitality and tourism skills, construction trades, digital literacy, financial management, and technical competencies matching Solomon Islands' economic opportunities.
Attracting and retaining investment – both domestic and foreign – requires a competitive, predictable business environment. SICCI advocates for clear investment policies, protection of property rights, efficient commercial dispute resolution, transparent procurement, and reduced bureaucratic obstacles. We provide input on investment legislation, represent business in economic governance forums, and work with the Foreign Investment Division to streamline investment approvals while ensuring local business participation and benefits.
Recent submissions and position papers prepared by SICCI on behalf of the private sector.
SICCI's comprehensive 35-page submission to the 2025 National Budget consultation presents evidence-based recommendations across taxation, public investment, SME support, and economic governance. Key proposals include maintaining competitive corporate tax rates, further increasing the SME tax threshold, introducing accelerated depreciation for business equipment, expanding export incentives, and prioritizing infrastructure spending on energy reliability and digital connectivity. The submission draws on member surveys, economic analysis, and international best practices.
October 2024
Building on the successful Honiara one-stop shop pilot, this paper proposes expanding streamlined business registration to all provincial centers, introducing fully online application systems, and further consolidating sector-specific licenses. Includes detailed implementation roadmap, cost-benefit analysis showing SBD$5 million annual savings to businesses, and technical specifications for the digital platform. Currently under review by the Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration.
September 2024
SICCI's detailed feedback on the Labour Amendment Bill 2024 seeks to balance worker protections with maintaining business flexibility and competitiveness. The submission supports strengthening occupational health and safety provisions but raises concerns about proposed restrictions on contract employment and redundancy processes. Recommends amendments to ensure the law supports job creation while protecting worker rights, drawing on comparative Pacific and international labour legislation.
August 2024
Six-month review of the new digital customs system based on user experience from 85 importing businesses. Identifies system improvements including integration with shipping line manifests, automated risk assessment, expanded 24/7 processing, and mobile app development. Recommendations on Phase 2 rollout to outer ports and border posts. Many suggestions incorporated into Customs & Excise Division's system enhancement plan.
July 2024
Research study based on surveys with 120 SMEs and interviews with financial institutions examining constraints to SME financing. Identifies key barriers including collateral requirements, high interest rates, limited financial literacy, and lack of credit information systems. Proposes establishing a partial credit guarantee scheme, SME financing facility, financial literacy programs, and credit bureau development. Submitted to Central Bank of Solomon Islands and commercial banks for consideration.
June 2024
Strategic paper proposing commercial and community uses for Pacific Games 2023 legacy infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability and business benefits. Recommends establishing sports tourism packages, conference and events hosting, training facilities for sports academies, and commercial activation of transport infrastructure. Includes business case for Games Village conversion to affordable housing and commercial space. Government adopted several recommendations in the National Infrastructure Asset Management Plan.
May 2024
SICCI's budget submission focused on post-pandemic economic recovery, calling for extended COVID-19 business support, infrastructure investment prioritization, and tax measures supporting job creation. Recommended SME tax threshold increase (adopted), import duty reductions on business inputs (partially adopted), and targeted support for tourism sector recovery. Several key recommendations incorporated into the 2024 Budget including the SME tax threshold increase from SBD$300,000 to SBD$500,000.
October 2023
SICCI's input to the National Tourism Recovery Strategy addressing urgent needs for tourism business survival and medium-term growth. Proposed market diversification beyond traditional source markets, domestic tourism promotion, tourism skills development, and infrastructure improvements including airport upgrades and accommodation standards. Recommendations shaped the final Tourism Strategy 2023-2028, with implementation now underway through the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau and Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
March 2023
Position paper on building private sector resilience to climate impacts including sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and resource degradation. Proposes incentives for climate-resilient business infrastructure, disaster recovery financing mechanisms, early warning system improvements, and private sector engagement in National Adaptation Plan implementation. Calls for climate finance access support for SMEs and green business incentives.
November 2023
Comprehensive framework for accelerating digital economy growth in Solomon Islands. Covers digital infrastructure investment needs, e-commerce regulatory framework, digital payments systems, cybersecurity, digital skills development, and government digital services. Recommends establishing a Digital Economy Taskforce, e-commerce legislation, and targeted support for digital business startups. Under consideration by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation and National ICT Committee.
September 2023
Research-based submission identifying systemic barriers facing women entrepreneurs including access to finance, property rights constraints, gender biases in procurement, and business development support gaps. Proposes women-focused business grants, gender-responsive procurement policies, mentorship programs, and legal reforms to enable equal property rights. Several recommendations incorporated into the Government's Gender Equality and Women's Development Policy and National Women's Development Strategy.
June 2023
Strategy paper on strengthening provincial economies through improved inter-island connectivity, provincial business support services, market access for rural producers, and devolved economic development authority. Proposes provincial business hubs, agricultural value chain development, and tourism product diversification in provinces. Recommends increased Provincial Government economic development capacity and budget allocations.
April 2023
Members can access full policy documents through the member portal. Become a member for full access.
Key policy wins and changes influenced through SICCI's advocacy efforts on behalf of the private sector.
After three years of sustained SICCI advocacy and technical input, Solomon Islands Customs launched the country's first fully digital cargo clearance system in March 2024. The system eliminates manual paperwork, enables 24/7 online declarations, and integrates with the ASYCUDA World platform. SICCI provided detailed business impact assessments and user requirements that shaped the system design. Import clearance times dropped from an average 5 days to 3 days – a transformation that saves businesses significant costs and improves competitiveness.
In SICCI's 2024 National Budget submission, the Chamber presented detailed evidence showing how the existing SBD$300,000 turnover tax threshold was capturing micro-enterprises and discouraging formalization. Following SICCI advocacy meetings with the Minister of Finance and presentations to the Economic Reform Unit, Government announced in the 2025 Budget that the SME threshold would increase to SBD$500,000. This change directly benefits over 500 small businesses, reduces compliance burden, and encourages informal businesses to register. The reform represents a SBD$15 million tax reduction for the SME sector.
SICCI successfully advocated for maximizing local business participation in the 2023 Pacific Games. The Chamber established a dedicated Games Business Hub, facilitated supplier registration, and liaised between the Games Organizing Committee and local businesses. As a result, Solomon Islands businesses secured over SBD$80 million in procurement contracts – from construction and catering to transport and security services. The Games left lasting infrastructure including upgraded venues, improved roads, and enhanced telecommunications that continue benefiting businesses. SICCI's post-Games survey showed 45% of participating businesses gained new capabilities and clients.
Following SICCI's comprehensive 2022 position paper on business licensing reform, Government launched a pilot 'one-stop shop' business registration center in Honiara. The reform consolidated 12 separate licenses into 4 categories, introduced online application options, and reduced average registration time from 60 days to 21 days. SICCI provided technical input on the streamlined processes and continues advocating for rollout to provincial centers. The reform has processed over 200 new business registrations in its first year.
SICCI championed establishment of formal industry partnerships with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to address critical skills gaps. The Chamber coordinated skills needs assessments with member businesses, mapped priority competencies, and worked with SINU and Don Bosco Technical Institute to redesign curricula. As a result, 15 new industry-aligned training programs launched in hospitality, construction, electrical, and business administration. Over 400 students have graduated, with 78% securing employment within 6 months – demonstrating the power of industry-education collaboration.
When COVID-19 restrictions threatened mass business closures, SICCI moved rapidly to document business impacts and advocate for targeted support. Within 10 days of the first lockdown, SICCI surveyed 350 members, presented findings to the Prime Minister, and proposed a costed support package. Government responded with a SBD$25 million Business Support Fund providing grants up to SBD$30,000 for affected businesses, plus tax payment deferrals and interest rate subsidies. Over 1,000 businesses received assistance, with SICCI helping members navigate applications. The Chamber's rapid, evidence-based advocacy was credited with preventing hundreds of business failures.
SICCI successfully secured private sector representation on the National PACER Plus Implementation Committee, ensuring business perspectives shape how Solomon Islands implements this major trade agreement with Australia and New Zealand. The Chamber provides input on rules of origin, product standards, and market access priorities. SICCI has organized trade missions, facilitated export certifications, and connected members with Australian importers under PACER Plus preferences. To date, 35 exporters have utilized PACER Plus duty-free access, increasing exports by SBD$8 million.
Responding to member frustrations with frequent power outages damaging equipment and disrupting operations, SICCI launched a sustained energy reliability campaign. The Chamber documented business losses, surveyed 200 members on power quality issues, and presented findings to Solomon Power and the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification. SICCI's advocacy contributed to approval of a SBD$150 million power grid rehabilitation program funded by development partners. Stage 1 completion in 2023 reduced outages in Honiara's business district by 60%, with members reporting significant cost savings.
Our sector committees bring together member businesses from specific industries to identify common challenges, develop policy positions, and engage with relevant government agencies.
Each committee is led by experienced industry professionals who volunteer their time to advance the interests of their sector. Committee meetings provide a valuable platform for peer networking and information sharing.
SICCI members can participate in sector committees aligned with their industry. Shape policy positions and network with peers.
Express Interest8 sector working groups
Hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and travel services
Agricultural producers, fisheries, and food processing
Manufacturing, industrial production, and processing
Banks, insurance, microfinance, and financial institutions
Retail stores, wholesale distributors, and e-commerce
Construction, real estate, and property development
Shipping, freight, aviation, and logistics services
Technology, telecommunications, and digital services
There are many ways for businesses to contribute to SICCI's advocacy work and help shape policies that affect your industry.
Share your business challenges and priorities through our annual advocacy survey.
Take SurveyJoin our policy forums and consultations to discuss key issues with fellow members.
View EventsParticipate in sector committees and help develop industry-specific policy positions.
Express InterestShare your insights directly with SICCI's advocacy team for immediate consideration.
Get in TouchJoin SICCI and participate in shaping policies that support business growth and economic development in Solomon Islands. Together, we can build a stronger private sector.
advocacy@solomonchamber.com.sb
(+677) 39542
Collaborate on policy initiatives