Market access into the European Union (EU) for Solomon Islands products will remain tough given the requirements are of high standard and the rising costs.
This was highligted by James Dolarii Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) Chief Executive Officer after attending the first-ever EU–Pacific Business Forum held in Nadi, Fiji, from 4–5 September 2025.
Some members of the private sector representatives also attended the forum.
The Forum brought together high-level policymakers, investors, development partners, and private sector leaders from across the Pacific and the European Union (EU) to deliberate on strengthening economic ties, accelerating sustainable development, and driving economic diversification in the region.
For Solomon Islands, the discussions reaffirmed both the opportunities and challenges of accessing the EU market.
Compliance with EU standards and requirements remains one of the most significant hurdles facing Solomon Islands’ Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the agriculture sector.
“Our Solomon Islands Government will need to work closely and consistently support the private sector to meet EU market standards.
“The requirements are high, and costs continue to rise. Without stronger partnership and commitment from Government, many of our SMEs will remain excluded from these opportunities,” said Dolarii after the meeting.
Approximately 80% of Solomon Islands’ businesses are MSMEs, many of which are the primary suppliers of exportable commodities such as cocoa, timber, ginger, and coconut products.
These businesses represent the foundation of the country’s export sector and are vital for generating employment, boosting rural livelihoods, and contributing to economic growth.
SICCI highlighted several priorities that must be addressed for Solomon Islands to unlock its export potential into the EU market:
– Government investment in trade-enabling infrastructure, including roads, ports, and storage facilities;
– Accessible financial products and support mechanisms tailored for MSMEs to help them meet export requirements and absorb compliance costs;
– Capacity-building and training programs to ensure businesses can meet stringent EU regulations, particularly in quality assurance and sustainability standards, and;
– Strengthened policy frameworks and coordination to align national strategies with international trade requirements.
“The private sector is the engine of growth and the driver of sustainable economic development for Solomon Islands. For it to thrive, Government must step up its commitment—investing in the right infrastructure, ensuring predictable policies, and providing targeted support to our MSME sector,” Mr. Dolarii added.
The Solomon Islands delegation included private sector representatives from SICCI, Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), Kokonut Pacific, Cathliro, SolTuna, and LG Marine Enterprise, alongside officials from the Ministry of National Planning and Development Coordination (MNPDC).
– SICCI
