PM Manele highlights the transformative potential of SEZs
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele has highlighted the transformative potential of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in steering the Solomon Islands toward sustained peace, economic recovery, and long-term development.
Speaking with conviction while debating the Special Economic Zone Bill 2024 in Parliament, Prime Minister Manele described SEZs not merely as economic instruments, but as essential tools in nation-building and peace consolidation.
“Solomon Islands, as a post-conflict nation, fully recognises that sustained economic growth and development are fundamental to alleviating poverty, improving living standards, and reducing the risk of a return to instability.
“These objectives are not only central to our national aspirations but are also aligned with the global development agenda-particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
The Prime Minister emphasized that SEZs provide a strategic and spatially focused platform for structural reform, investment attraction, and infrastructure development.
By concentrating government efforts and resources in designated areas, SEZs can catalyze economic diversification and job creation—factors he argued are indispensable for a stable and resilient Solomon Islands.
Drawing connections between economic development and peace, Prime Minister Manele said, it is not a matter of speculation…it is well-documented that economic development is a vital ingredient in consolidating peace and preventing the recurrence of conflict.
He outlined the direct relevance of SEZs to several SDGs, including SDG 1: No Poverty, through job and income generation, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by promoting private sector involvement and sustainable business, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, via targeted investment in transportation, energy, and digital networks, SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, by tackling economic root causes of conflict.
The Special Economic Zone Bill 2024, now under parliamentary scrutiny, seeks to establish a legal and institutional framework to operationalize SEZs across the country.
If passed, it will enable the government to designate specific zones with economic incentives and governance structures aimed at accelerating growth.
The Prime Minister stressed, the SEZ must be pursued with seriousness and strategic intent. It is not merely an economic tool but an instrument of peacebuilding, resilience, and long-term national development.
The Special Economic Zone Bill 2024 is now before the Committee of the Whole House.
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Prime Minister’s Press Secretariat