The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) has successfully convened its Industry Working Group Roundtable Discussion, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to support private sector development across the country.

The meeting brought together all seven industry working groups (IWGs) under SICCI’s umbrella aimed at fostering collaboration and identifying solutions to the key challenges facing industry sectors.

These working groups serve as crucial platforms to strengthen SICCI’s advocacy for policies that create a more conducive environment for private sector growth.

The IWGs operate under two of SICCI’s strategic departments – the Advocacy Department and the Export Industry Development.

Under the Advocacy Department, the Small and Medium Business Working Group, the Manufacturing Industry Working Group, and the Building Construction Industry Working Group focus on core domestic business development impediments.

On the export development front, the Export Industry Department manages four additional working groups – the Cocoa, Coconut, Kava, and Timber Industry Working Groups. These groups are vital in supporting and enhancing the competitiveness of Solomon Islands’ key export industries, working closely with producers and exporters to navigate international markets and improve value chains.

Each IWG comprises committee members from relevant industry sectors who meet frequently to deliberate on sector-specific issues, share insights, and develop coordinated advocacy strategies.

SICCI Chief Executive Officer Mr. James Dolarii highlighted the importance of the roundtable in his remarks, stating, “This discussion is a critical step in ensuring the voices of our industries are heard and that we continue to work collaboratively with both the government and our members to improve the business environment.”

The Roundtable Discussion provided a valuable opportunity for cross-sector dialogue and reinforced SICCI’s commitment to building resilient industries through informed policy advocacy and targeted development support.

As SICCI continues to spearhead efforts to empower our businesses, the outcomes from the roundtable are expected to guide future initiatives and strengthen public-private partnerships in the Solomon Islands.