At the 13th Australia Solomon Islands Business Forum held in Honiara on September 3, Simon Gorman, Chair of the Australia Pacific Islands Business Council (APIBC), opened the two-day event with remarks focused on the close partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands. Gorman highlighted the long-standing ties between the two nations, emphasising their mutual commitment to economic development, despite ongoing global and regional challenges.
APIBC President Simon Gorman welcomes Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele as SICCI President Namoi Kalaue looks on.
Gorman welcomed key dignitaries, including Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, who has attended the forum multiple times in various capacities, and Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People, Justin Mohammed, who delivered the keynote address on behalf of the Australian government. He also acknowledged the critical support from the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and the Australian High Commissioner, Rod Hilton, whose office hosted a reception for forum attendees.
In his speech, Gorman reflected on the evolution of the forum, which was established in 2009 to support Solomon Islands businesses as they emerged from a period of political instability. He noted that, since 2016, the forum has alternated between Brisbane and Honiara, and the two-year hiatus due to the pandemic had underscored the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties.
He highlighted several key issues facing businesses in the Pacific region, including limited access to capital, geopolitical risks, and disruptions in air and sea transport. Gorman pointed to the increasing cost of shipping and reduced air connectivity as significant hurdles for Pacific economies. Additionally, he mentioned the skilled labour shortage in both developed and developing economies, which has led to a surge in migration from Pacific nations.
Despite these challenges, Gorman struck an optimistic tone, citing recent successful initiatives between Australian and Solomon Islands businesses. He praised the collaborative efforts underway, particularly in light of the recent Pacific Games, which demonstrated the country’s potential for positive growth. Gorman emphasised the importance of continued partnership, stressing the role Australian businesses can play in fostering inclusive economic development.
Gorman concluded by thanking the forum’s sponsors and speakers, expressing hope for a productive event that will help unlock new opportunities for both nations.
As the forum progressed over the two days, participants explored various business and economic opportunities, with the goal of fostering stronger ties between Australian and Solomon Islands enterprises.
