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SME Bill, Power Reform Top Agenda as PSAG Meets for First Time

The Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG) convened its inaugural meeting for 2026, bringing together senior government officials and private sector leaders to strengthen economic collaboration and drive forward the GREAT policy agenda.

The high-level session, attended by representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, Industries, Labour and Immigration and the Ministry of Planning and Development Coordination, provided a platform for candid dialogue on how private enterprise can contribute to inclusive growth and rural development under the Government for Rural Advancement, Empowerment, and Transformation (GREAT) Policy.

The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) also used the meeting to push two key legislative priorities.

SICCI  called for the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Bill to be tabled before Parliament urgently, arguing that a comprehensive SME framework is critical for formalizing the sector, improving access to finance, and unlocking local entrepreneurship.

 SICCI also pressed for amendments to the Electricity Act to address regulatory constraints, improve energy reliability, and reduce operational costs for businesses.

On events, SICCI provided updates on the PNGSI Business Investment Forum, aimed at showcasing investment opportunities and fostering regional business linkages, and the 9th Business Excellence Awards, which will recognize outstanding performance and innovation within the local business community.

SICCI also acknowledged the GREAT Government’s commitment to advancing local content and supporting locally owned enterprises, describing such policies as essential for building a resilient and self-reliant economy.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the Advisory Group’s work, with future meetings scheduled to track progress on priority action items.

 

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  • Gina Maka'a is the Co-founder and Investigative Journalist for In-depth Solomons.

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