ANNUAL NATIONAL TRADE SHOW IS BACK! Theme: “Trade for Transformation – Rebuilding Our Happy Isles”

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) is proud to announce the hosting of the 2025 Annual National Trade Fair (2025ANTF) under the inspiring theme: “Trade for Transformation – Rebuilding Our Happy Isles.” The event is scheduled for first week July 2025 and will coincide with the country’s 47th Independence Anniversary celebrations on 07^th July 2025.

This marks the first national trade fair (show) since 2014, signaling the revival of a major platform for promoting innovation, showcasing local products, and connecting Solomon Islanders across all sectors of commerce, culture, and creativity.

A key milestone in the preparation of the Trade Fair was reached today when the 2025 ANTF Steering Committee signed a Service Agreement with the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) to use the FOPA village as the official Trade Fair venue for the event.

Dr. William Parairato, Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate of SINU, said:

“SINU is honoured to partner with the MCILI and the 2025ANTF Steering Committee in supporting the successful delivery of the 2025 Annual National Trade Fair. As the national university, we see this as an opportunity to connect learning, innovation, and enterprise with the real economy. By providing the FOPA venue as the operational hub, we are proud to contribute to a national initiative that aligns with our mission to support economic transformation, skills development, and inclusive growth for our country.”

The agreement was formally signed today 22/05/2025 by Deputy Secretary for Administration & Planning of MCILI, Mr. Hunter Masuguria, on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government, and Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate of SINU, Dr. William Parairato, on behalf of SINU.

Vice Chairman (2025ANTF), Simon Chottu, welcomed the partnership, stating:

“The return of the National Trade Fair marks a significant step toward revitalizing and strengthening our domestic economy. We sincerely thank the GNUT Government for prioritizing our Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and recognizing the importance of reviving this vital national event. We also extend our gratitude to SINU for its partnership and support. We look forward to a successful collaboration and a vibrant, impactful Trade Fair this year.”

The 2025 Trade Fair is aligned with GNUT’s Policy Statement 2.1.6 MCILI, which promotes and supports our private sectors through establishment of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to foster a competitive and thriving business environment. This policy aims to diversify the economy, generate employment, and empower Solomon Islanders through entrepreneurship and innovation.

Also, the MCILI Corporate Plan 2025 underscores the Ministry’s commitment to promoting fair trade, competitive markets, and strong export pathways for local producers.

As stated by the former Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, Hon. Harry Kuma:

“We must ensure our goods and services, especially those provided by our hardworking SME’s, are visible in both our domestic and international markets. Promoting fair trade and creating strong market linkages is central to empowering our local economy and achieving long-term prosperity.”

Aligned with this vision, the Ministry’s core functions include the promotion of locally made products and services, organizing inclusive annual national trade and investment events, supporting exporters in securing niche markets for high-value Solomon Islands products, and ensuring that local products gain greater visibility and competitiveness within the domestic market.

A formal launch of the event will happen at end of May 2025, with exhibition and vendor registration details to follow. The 2025ANTF Steering Committee invites all stakeholders from government ministries, private sector, civil society, NGO and provinces to join this national celebration of enterprise and transformation.

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– Government Communication Unit