Business Forum to Advance Australia-Solomon Islands Partnerships

Nov 3, 2025 | 2025, Blog, Pacific, Solomon Islands

17-19 November 2025 | Brisbane

The 14th Australia Solomon Islands Business Forum #14ASIBF, scheduled for 17-19 November in Brisbane, comes at an important time for business and economic cooperation. Co-hosted by the Australia Pacific Islands Business Council and the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), the Forum remains the premier annual platform bringing together government, business and development partners to explore opportunities and strengthen commercial partnerships.

The economic outlook in the Solomon Islands has continued to improve, driven by planned transitions in key sectors. The Government has placed priority on diversifying from a historical reliance on logging and encouraging growth in mining, agriculture, fisheries, infrastructure development, tourism and services. Regional and global demand for sustainably sourced resources, renewable energy systems, resilient transport infrastructure and agricultural value chains present new entry points for Australian businesses. Australia remains the Solomon Islands largest trade, investment and development partner, with expanding two-way commercial and technical engagement under PACER Plus and long-standing institutional cooperation.

The Forum programme provides a structured platform for practical dialogue. It features ministerial and senior official plenaries on economic reforms and investment priorities, sector-focused roundtables on infrastructure financing, agribusiness, resources, tourism market development and telecommunications, as well as targeted business networking functions. Delegates will have opportunities to hear directly from policymakers and project leads, understand procurement processes and regulatory settings, and connect with Solomon Islands companies seeking partnership, supply chain support and capability development.

Special sessions are also planned on workforce development, small and medium enterprise growth and investment opportunities linked to provincial development initiatives. An industry networking reception and business exhibition area will provide additional space for one-to-one commercial discussions. The programme is designed to support delegates in developing a clear understanding of market conditions, upcoming project pipelines and partnership models that work in practice.

Response to the Forum has been strong. Interest from across Australia and the region reflects growing confidence in the Solomon Islands’ economic direction and the value of direct relationship building. Places are already filling quickly. Businesses and organisations planning to attend are encouraged to register as soon as possible to secure participation and accommodate travel arrangements.

Australia contributed significant assistance to the country in preparing to host the recent 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, providing more than SBD100 million in support for infrastructure upgrades in Honiara. The work included repairs to key roads and drainage networks, as well as the installation of climate-resilient conference facilities. Solar power systems were fitted at the Solomon Islands Friendship Hall and the Aquatic Centre, with 776 solar panels linked to a battery system expected to reduce government energy costs by around SBD3.3 million annually. Importantly, all works were delivered entirely by Solomon Islands companies and local workers.

For Australian companies looking to deepen their Pacific engagement, position for new commercial opportunities and contribute to long-term partnership-based growth, the 14th Australia Solomon Islands Business Forum offers a timely and highly relevant platform.

Hurry and register now to ensure your place.

TOP 25 BEST PLACES TO VISIT

Meanwhile, The Lonely Planet travel guide has named the Solomon Islands among its “Top 25 Best Places to Visit in 2026”, making it the only South Pacific nation included in the list. visitsolomons.com.sb The decision follows a recent visit by the guide’s Oceania editor, who highlighted the country’s emerging surf scene, exceptional biodiversity, rich cultural experiences and direct flight accessibility from Brisbane. visitsolomons.com.sb The recognition is a considerable boost for the Solomon Islands’ tourism industry and broader economic agenda, as it reinforces international interest and supports the nation’s efforts to attract higher-value visitors and investment in its tourism infrastructure.es here

 

 

MENU