FOUR buying centres have been opened by the Commodities Export Marketing Authority (CEMA) trading as Solomon Commodities as part of allowing rural farmers to access the market.
The four buying centers are located in Malaita, Makira, Choiseul, and Honiara.
This marked a major milestone in its revitalization strategy to strengthen market access for rural farmers and improve commodity trade across the Solomon Islands.
Farmers in these regions can now sell their copra and cocoa directly at the centers, reducing transport costs and increasing income.
These new buying centres are part of CEMA’s ongoing effort to bring services closer to local communities, improve the supply chain, and boost economic opportunities in the provinces.
In a further sign of progress, CEMA has also registered 84 buyingagents in eightprovinces; Central, Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Isabel, Makira, Malaita, Temotu, and Western, compared to just 38 registered agents in 2024.
This increase demonstrates CEMA’s commitment to expanding its presence and creating more direct market linkages for local producers.
CEMA’s revitalization program is aligned with the Solomon Islands Government’s broader policy to modernize the agriculture sector and empower rural communities.
The newly launched buying centers and expanded network of agents will play a crucial role in stimulating economic growth, increasing exports, and ensuring fair trade practices throughout the commodity supply chain.
– OPMC