Solomon Islands strengthens public-private collaboration to boost tourism growth

Published on February 25, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

The Solomon Islands government is reinforcing its commitment to public-private partnerships as a crucial strategy for expanding the country’s tourism industry.

Addressing over 150 tourism representatives at the Tourism In Focus Conference in Honiara, Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Choylin Yim Douglas, emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable tourism growth.

Government’s Vision for Tourism Development

The Solomon Islands tourism sector has experienced remarkable growth, a success attributed to dedication, resilience, and cooperation between public and private stakeholders.

Recognizing tourism’s potential to stimulate economic development, create jobs, and enhance livelihoods, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MTC) has significantly increased its annual budget allocation to over SB$46 million—a substantial rise from SB$10 million in previous years.

This funding is strategically allocated to key initiatives aimed at achieving the government’s target of 100,000 visitor arrivals by 2035.

Key Strategic Initiatives

The government, in partnership with Tourism Solomons, has outlined five core investment areas to drive tourism sector growth:

1. Product Development and Diversification

Collaborations between the government and tourism operators will introduce new tourism products and experiences, ensuring offerings remain competitive while preserving cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.

2. Investment in Infrastructure and Accommodation

The government is prioritizing new hotel developments and upgrades to existing accommodations to meet international standards, improving the overall visitor experience and increasing tourism capacity.

3. Aggressive Marketing and Promotion

Enhanced marketing campaigns will showcase Solomon Islands’ pristine landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique tourism experiences to key international markets, positioning the country as a premier Pacific travel destination.

4. Capacity Building and Training

Investing in hospitality workforce training will ensure local tourism professionals provide world-class service, fostering a skilled and competitive industry that enhances visitor satisfaction.

5. Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships

Stronger collaboration between government, local businesses, and international development organizations will accelerate tourism growth, leveraging expertise and resources to support policy development, investment incentives, and sustainable tourism strategies.

Tourism In Focus Conference: Expanding the Market Approach

The Tourism In Focus Conference, hosted by Tourism Solomons, proved to be one of the most impactful industry events in recent years. Themed “Expanding the Market Approach,” the conference featured a strong lineup of expert speakers who provided insights into the industry’s growth potential.

Notable presentations included:

• Tourism Solomons’ domestic and international marketing team, led by Acting CEO Dagnal Dereveke
• National Association of Inbound Tour Operators (NAITO)
• Dive Operators of Solomon Islands (DOSI)
• Western Province Tourism Association
• Authentic Mala Tours, representing Malaita Province’s evolving tourism sector

These discussions reinforced the industry’s collective optimism, with stakeholders recognizing that collaboration, strategic investment, and effective marketing are key to long-term success.

A Future Built on Cooperation

The Solomon Islands government remains committed to unlocking the full potential of tourism, ensuring economic benefits reach local communities while preserving the nation’s rich culture and natural beauty. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Tourism Solomons will continue to work closely with private-sector partners to drive tourism expansion in line with sustainable development goals.