AGP Executive Report

Australia–Solomons Treaty Talks: Australia has reportedly reached an in-principle agreement on a new treaty with Solomon Islands, with leaked details pointing to about US$980m in additional funding as Canberra races to lock in deals amid rising China competition. Political Interference Claims: Solomon Islands Opposition leader Manasseh Sogavare says leaked messages suggest Australia may be meddling in domestic politics, including constituency funding tied to the government’s survival during a no-confidence crisis. No-Confidence Motion Withdrawn: The no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale was withdrawn after East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga filed the withdrawal, easing immediate political pressure. US–Solomons Cooperation: The US and Solomon Islands signed to renew the Peace Corps programme, and the US also announced four airport rescue and firefighting vehicles plus a plan to assess Parliament building rehabilitation costs. Honiara Airport Safety & Governance: Japan provided US$3m via UNDP to strengthen Solomon Islands electoral institutions and preparations for future elections. Local Economy Boost: Honiara hosts the 2026 National Trade Fair (Sept 9–16) to spotlight local enterprise, innovation and culture. Infrastructure Milestone: The Malu’u seawall for the Malu’u Market project is complete, with construction moving into the next phase to support vendors in North Malaita. Skills & Accounting: ISIA will hold its 3rd annual congress in Honiara on Sept 17–18, urging employers to back accountants’ professional development. Border Reform: A new electronic visa system has been launched to speed up applications and strengthen immigration security. Debt Pressure Warning: A regional analysis warns Pacific debt risks are structural, not just “debt-trap” stories, as growth slows and climate and fuel costs bite.

Mobile Costs Watch: A new Broadband Genie study ranks the UK 46th globally for average mobile broadband data cost at about $0.27 per 1GB, while noting limits in how prices are compared. Regional Climate Push: Pacific leaders at a Palau summit urged COP31 to deliver climate finance for renewables and resilience as fossil-fuel import costs bite. Australia–Solomons Deal: Leaked messaging says Australia is preparing a major new treaty package for Solomon Islands, with promises of over $980m in additional funding. Free Education Funding Debate: Opposition MP Manasseh Sogavare questioned whether the government is ready for nationwide free education in 2027, warning it needs proper costing, classrooms and a new budget appropriation. Minerals Revenue Hit: PM Matthew Wale told Parliament mineral bill amendments were delayed, risking about $1b in forgone revenue this year. Border & Trade Security: Government ordered immediate closure of non-ISPS-compliant sufferance wharves and import operations, tightening customs controls. Immigration Reform: A new electronic visa system went live under the Solomon Islands Border Management System to speed up applications and strengthen security. Honiara Business Calendar: Honiara will host the 2026 Annual National Trade Fair (Sept 9–16) at SINU’s FOPA Village, aiming to spotlight local enterprise and innovation. Public Safety: Police confirmed a real pistol was used in a Honiara shop threat incident involving an Australian national, with investigations continuing. US Partnership: Solomon Islands and the US signed to renew the Peace Corps programme, with volunteers set to return after more than 20 years.

COP31 Push: Pacific leaders at the PIF summit in Palau urged COP31 to deliver climate finance and support for renewables and ocean action, as islands face costly fuel imports and worsening impacts. Australia–Solomons Treaty Leak: A leaked message says Australia is preparing a major new treaty with Solomon Islands, with additional funding of more than $980m flagged as negotiations move toward signing. Minerals Revenue Hit: PM Matthew Wale told Parliament the government may forgo about $1b this year after delaying mineral bill amendments pending further stakeholder consultation. Free Education Plan: Wale reaffirmed free education from ECE to SINU and TAFE/TVET, with an estimated extra $1.1b needed and concerns over costing assumptions. Political Stability: A no-confidence motion against PM Wale was withdrawn after East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga pulled it, easing immediate pressure on the government. Trade Security Crackdown: Finance Minister Rexon Ramofafia ordered immediate closure of non-ISPS-compliant sufferance wharves and tightened customs controls to protect revenue and border security. US Peace Corps Returns: Solomon Islands and the US signed to renew the Peace Corps programme, with volunteers set to support schools and health services. Health & Community: A Yashoda Medicity visit explored healthcare cooperation, while the Sri Sathya Sai Children’s Heart Hospital plans to expand cardiac services beyond children. Weather Alert: SIMS issued a strong wind warning for Temotu, Makira and Rennell/Bellona, advising sea travellers to take precautions.

Pacific Diplomacy: Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale met visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Honiara, with talks focused on economic development and security, including the planned return of the US Peace Corps after more than two decades. Parliament & Governance: A no-confidence motion against PM Wale was withdrawn after East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga pulled the motion, sparing the government from Monday’s debate. Maritime Trade & Revenue: The Government ordered the immediate closure of all non-ISPS-compliant sufferance wharves nationwide, directing Customs to shut facilities lacking Solomon Islands Maritime Authority accreditation and to require full duties and taxes before any cargo release. Business Confidence: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry met RSIPF ahead of the political situation, urging calm operations and prioritising protection of critical infrastructure and essential services. Skills & Jobs: ISIA will hold its 3rd annual Congress in Honiara on Sept 17–18 to strengthen the accounting and finance workforce, while SIART continues provincial training for farmers and extension officers in Malaita. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR launched its GEDSI strategy 2026–2030 to broaden participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities across the fisheries sector.

Maritime Security & Trade: The Solomon Islands Government has ordered the immediate closure of all sufferance wharves that are not compliant with the ISPS Code, effective 4 September, with Customs told to shut non-accredited facilities and only resume operations once full compliance is verified; for approved ISPS-compliant wharves, duties and taxes must be paid before cargo release. US-Solomons Talks: Prime Minister Matthew Wale met visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Honiara, discussing economic development priorities and the planned return of the US Peace Corps after more than two decades. Politics Watch: A no-confidence motion against PM Wale was withdrawn ahead of Monday’s debate, after Opposition MP Manasseh Maelanga filed and then withdrew the motion. Business & Skills: The Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) will hold its 3rd annual congress on 17–18 September, focusing on building a modern accounting and finance workforce. Local Economy & Capacity: SIART continued provincial training in Malaita on financial literacy and feed formulation for young agriculture extension officers and farmer groups. Public Safety: RSIPF arrested an Australian national after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop in east Honiara, with police using less-lethal force to control the suspect. Regional Finance Leadership: CBSI Governor appointed Vice Chair of the Pacific Islands Regional Initiative (PIRI), highlighting work on financial inclusion and digital finance.

Political Tension in Honiara: A no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set for Monday, Sept 7, with East Malaita MP Manasseh Maelanga moving the motion in Parliament. Business Continuity: Ahead of the vote, the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) has engaged the RSIPF to keep businesses and the public informed, and urged protection of critical infrastructure and uninterrupted essential services. Finance Leadership Shake-up: Opposition says Wale’s removal of Gordon Darcy Lilo as Finance Minister is a serious leadership error, arguing it risks further uncertainty for budgets, investor confidence and development partner engagement. Security Incident: RSIPF detained an Australian national after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop near the SDA-Vura main road in east Honiara; police used less-lethal force after the suspect refused orders. Agriculture Skills for Growth: SIART continued training in Malaita, building financial literacy and feed formulation skills for young agriculture extension officers to pass on to farmers through ABPOs. Regional Finance Push: CBSI Governor appointed Vice Chair of the Pacific Islands Regional Initiative (PIRI), highlighting work on financial inclusion, digital finance and MSME support. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR launched its GEDSI Strategy 2026–2030 to expand gender equality, disability and social inclusion across the fisheries sector.

Pacific Food & Fisheries: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency and SPC are rolling out the “Tuna Bites” campaign for UN World Tuna Day and Pacific Tuna Month, with country culinary competitions (including Solomon Islands) to spotlight tuna’s role in protein, livelihoods and food security. Political Risk in Honiara: A no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Matthew Wale is set for Monday, Sept 7, with Parliament also set to consider a finance-related resolution to keep public services funded at last year’s level. Finance Leadership Shake-up: Opposition says Wale’s removal of Gordon Darcy Lilo as Finance Minister is a serious leadership error, arguing it undermines economic stability and investor confidence ahead of the motion. Business Preparedness: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry has engaged RSIPF to keep businesses informed and urges protection of critical infrastructure and uninterrupted essential services during the political period. Agriculture & Jobs Skills: SIART continues training in Malaita, building farmers’ business skills through financial literacy and feed formulation for agribusiness producer organizations. Fisheries Inclusion: MFMR has launched a Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion strategy (2026–2030) to expand participation across fisheries value chains. Security Incident: RSIPF detained an Australian national after a threatening incident involving an alleged firearm at a shop in east Honiara, using less-lethal force after the suspect refused orders.

Solomon Islands Politics & Business Confidence: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) has met police to stay ahead of risks around Monday’s Motion of No Confidence, urging calm operations and protection of critical infrastructure. Cabinet & Finance Leadership: Opposition says Prime Minister Matthew Wale’s removal of Gordon Darcy Lilo as Finance Minister is a serious leadership error, coming amid cost-of-living pressure and right before the no-confidence debate. Fisheries Inclusion Strategy: The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources launched its Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Strategy 2026–2030 to broaden participation across fisheries value chains. Agriculture & Rural Jobs: SIART training strengthened rural farmers in Malaita, while construction of a new Auki agriculture office (SBD17.9m) has reached the halfway point and is on track. Local Finance Access: Australia-backed workshops in Honiara connected contractors with banks and lenders to improve access to finance for construction growth. Regional Security & Trade: A new Kerekere Customs Border Post is set to anchor border security and support future bilateral trade. Pacific Forum Fallout: At the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, leaders demanded at least 24 hours’ warning for ICBM tests, with Palau pushing for a unified Pacific response to China’s missile test.

Cabinet & Finance Shake-up: Opposition says PM Matthew Wale’s removal of Gordon Darcy Lilo as Finance Minister is a serious leadership error, coming right before Parliament debates the no-confidence motion on 7 September—arguing it risks more uncertainty for budgets, investor confidence and development partner engagement. Political Instability Hits Business: The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry warns that frequent leadership and Cabinet changes are stalling decisions, delaying approvals and financing, and hurting jobs—saying the real damage is the uncertainty. Border & Trade Infrastructure: Kerekere Customs Border Post has been unveiled as a key border security and regional trade gateway, positioning Kokoda for future bilateral international trade. Agriculture & Rural Capacity: SIART training in Malaita is building young extension officers’ skills in financial literacy and feed formulation so they can support agribusiness producer groups; in Auki, a new SBD17.9m agriculture building is past the halfway mark and is meeting environmental safeguards. Construction Finance Support: Australia-backed workshops in Honiara are connecting local contractors with banks and lenders to improve access to finance, with emphasis on records and cash-flow management. Energy Costs & Reform: World Bank discussions with Solomon Islands officials focus on energy security, lower electricity costs, and support for reforms tied to hydropower and fuel-price pressures. Regional Security & Fisheries: Australia’s RAAF supported maritime surveillance for fisheries patrols under the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, while Solomon Islands’ foreign minister calls for a modern, future-fit regional fisheries surveillance centre. Pacific Geopolitics: At the PIF Leaders’ Meeting in Palau, leaders demanded at least 24 hours’ warning for ICBM tests after China’s missile test, with Nauru dissenting on the wording.

Pacific Forum leadership shift: New Zealand has joined the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Troika, taking on expanded oversight ahead of Auckland hosting in 2027, with PM Christopher Luxon saying the goal is progress on economic prosperity, regional security and resilience. Solomon Islands-Japan ties: Japan reaffirmed support for Solomon Islands’ development priorities, including work via an education task force and exploration of aviation assistance such as airport infrastructure and terminals. Energy and cost pressures: The World Bank reiterated backing for Solomon Islands energy reforms and the Tina River Hydropower push, as ministers urged Pacific action to cut fuel-related transport and insurance costs to lower electricity prices. Business confidence hit by politics: SICCI warned that ongoing political instability is stalling decisions, delaying approvals and financing, and weighing on jobs and investment plans. Finance ministry shake-up ahead of no-confidence: Opposition says PM Matthew Wale’s sacking of Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo is a serious leadership error just before Parliament debates the no-confidence motion. Regional fisheries security: Australia’s RAAF supported Solomon Islands-led maritime surveillance under Operation Solania, identifying vessels of interest, while Solomon Islands called for a future-fit Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre. Biosecurity planning: MALD is preparing a Solomon Islands National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 after a national validation workshop, aiming to protect agriculture and food security from invasive pests and diseases. Climate-resilient schools: UNICEF and the EU launched a €17m Pacific Climate Resilient Education Systems programme to upgrade schools’ water, sanitation, renewable energy and disaster readiness.

Maritime Security: Australia’s RAAF C-27J Spartan backed Pacific fisheries patrols under Operation Solania 26-3, flying 10 surveillance missions across 320,000 sq km and flagging 19 vessels of interest for follow-up by the Forum Fisheries Agency centre in Honiara. Fisheries & Policy: Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Rick Houenipwela urged Pacific leaders to invest in a “future-fit” Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre, calling for resilient infrastructure, modern tech, stronger analysis and sustained support for Pacific staff. Regional Diplomacy: Palau President Surangel Whipps pushed for a “unified” Pacific response to China’s July ballistic missile test, arguing Beijing must respect sovereignty and transparency; the push comes as leaders debate how to handle Taiwan’s forum presence. Solomons Politics: Prime Minister Matthew Wale sacked Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo as a no-confidence motion looms on 7 September, while Wale and the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet accuse rivals of political opportunism and destabilisation. Economy Watch: The Central Bank of Solomon Islands warned inflation could rise to 5–6% by end-2026, keeping its policy rate at 1.5% as oil prices and weather disruptions feed supply-side pressures. Biosecurity Planning: MALD is preparing the National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 after a validation workshop, stressing biosecurity as an investment to protect agriculture, food security and livelihoods.

Pacific Islands Forum Fallout: China warned of “consequences” after Taiwan’s foreign minister attended a Palau summit event, as several leaders skipped the meeting amid fears of Beijing pressure. US-Australia Push: Australia and the United States announced a combined US$580m for Pacific priorities, including US$60m for fuel security and grid stability and major funding to tackle drug smuggling and transnational crime. Solomon Islands Politics: Honiara’s GREAT Coalition government hit back at a no-confidence motion against PM Matthew Wale, calling it a political power grab and arguing reforms are only just starting. Regional Action Pressure: Solomon Islands’ Rick Houenipwela urged Forum leaders to turn communiqués into results, pointing to the Review of Regional Architecture as a key chance to reset priorities. Local Economy Watch: CBSI kept its policy rate at 1.5% and warned inflation could reach 5–6% by end-2026, driven largely by oil prices and weather disruptions. Trade & Business: SINU will host the 2026 National Trade Fair (Sept 7–14) after signing an MoU with MCILI, with venue upgrades planned. Biosecurity Planning: MALD is preparing a National Biosecurity Strategy 2026–2036 after a Honiara validation workshop, targeting invasive pests and diseases that threaten food security and livelihoods.

Pacific Forum Push for Action: Solomon Islands’ Rick Houenipwela urged Pacific leaders to turn years of communiqués into real outcomes, pointing to the Review of Regional Architecture as a chance to reset priorities amid geopolitics, climate, security and finance pressures. PRF Moves From Idea to Projects: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown backed the Pacific Resilience Facility as it shifts from pledges to community-funded climate adaptation, with PRF showcasing 14 community impact projects ahead of COP31. Solomon Islands Finance Watch: The Central Bank of Solomon Islands kept its policy rate at 1.5% but warned inflation could climb to 5–6% by end-2026, driven by oil prices and weather disruptions. SME Credit Boost: SICCI welcomed the relaunch of the Small and Medium Enterprises Credit Guarantee Scheme, saying it can unlock affordable lending for local businesses. Geopolitics Overhangs Business Agenda: China warned of “consequences” for Taiwan’s presence at the Palau-hosted Pacific Islands Forum, while several leaders skipped the opening—raising concerns that great-power rivalry could crowd out climate, crime and development priorities. Solomons Diplomacy and Trade: Switzerland offered support to reopen Solomon Islands’ permanent mission in Geneva, and SINU will host the 2026 National Trade Fair in September. Regional Funding Race: Australia and the US announced a combined US$580m package for Pacific nations, including energy security and anti-drug smuggling efforts. Local Governance Tensions: OPMC rejected a move to topple PM Matthew Wale as a political power grab, amid ongoing reform plans.

Pacific Forum Power Shift: Palau has taken over the Pacific Islands Forum chair from Solomon Islands, with President Surangel Whipps Jr. stressing the “Pacific agenda must be driven by us” as leaders push climate, ocean protection and economic resilience. China-Taiwan Tensions: China’s envoy warned Taiwan’s presence at the Palau opening ceremony would bring “consequences,” while Australia said the Forum decides who attends; several leaders also skipped in-person participation, fueling claims of outside pressure. Solomon Islands Politics Spillover: New Zealand’s Winston Peters called PM Matthew Wale’s rushed return home a “setback” after a no-confidence motion and cabinet resignations. VAT Push in Honiara: Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo says VAT’s policy decision is final and urged businesses to prepare now for registration, invoicing, record-keeping and input tax credits. SME Finance Relaunch: SICCI welcomed the reopening of the Small and Medium Enterprises Credit Guarantee Scheme to unlock lending for local businesses. Energy & Development: Solomon Islands met the World Bank on fuel prices and lowering electricity costs, while UNICEF and partners handed solar power to seven rural health facilities in Malaita. Local Business Growth: Firetree secured a Tesco listing for its 100% cocoa chocolate bar made with Solomon Islands cocoa; Shortland received a $1.5m China-funded fishing project under RSDP. Carbon Income for Landowners: Padezaka forest in South Choiseul was approved as an operational carbon project, aiming to generate benefits for about 4,000 landowners.

Pacific Forum Tensions: China warned of “consequences” after Taiwan’s foreign minister appeared at the Pacific Islands Forum opening in Palau, while several leaders skipped key sessions amid claims of foreign pressure. Solomon Islands Politics: Prime Minister Matthew Wale left Palau to address a no-confidence motion at home; New Zealand’s Winston Peters called the timing a “setback” for regional security talks. VAT Push: Solomon Islands’ Finance Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo opened tax reform consultations and told businesses to prepare now for VAT, saying the VAT decision is final and firms must update registration, invoicing, records and input tax claims. Energy & Cost of Power: Solomon Islands met the World Bank on energy security, fuel prices and lowering electricity costs, with renewed focus on solar and hydro and possible fuel storage. Carbon Finance for Landowners: Padezaka forest in South Choiseul was cleared to join the global carbon market, aiming to generate income for about 4,000 landowners. Rural Development: Shortland Islands received a $1.5m China-funded fishing project under the RSDP, and UNICEF helped install solar power for seven rural health facilities in Malaita. Bilateral Moves: Switzerland offered support to reopen Solomon Islands’ permanent diplomatic mission in Geneva, and Solomon Islands and Japan reaffirmed cooperation on education, infrastructure and aviation.

Pacific Climate Credibility: New Zealand’s Winston Peters questioned whether the Paris Agreement can deliver for the Pacific, pointing to major emitters (China, Russia, US, India) responsible for 60%+ of global emissions as leaders push for 1.5°C and more practical climate finance. Solomons Political Shock: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale is set to face a no-confidence motion next week after three ministers resigned from his GREAT coalition, with NZ’s Peters blasting cabinet moves made on the eve of the Pacific Islands Forum. PIF Geopolitics—Taiwan Flashpoint: China warned of “consequences” after Taiwan’s foreign minister appeared at PIF opening events in Palau, as several leaders also skip the summit, weakening unity. CBSI Rate Watch: The Central Bank of Solomon Islands kept its policy rate at 1.5%, but warned inflation may rise to 5–6% by end-2026; it also downgraded growth to 3.0% for 2026. Rural Health Power: UNICEF handed over solar electrification to seven rural primary healthcare facilities in Malaita, a near SBD$1.89m investment. Honiara Property Revaluation: CAUSE II advanced Honiara’s citywide property revaluation with a valuation workshop under the Integrated Land Information System push. US Economic/Security Outreach: US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau is scheduled to visit Solomon Islands next week to meet government and business leaders on shared economic and security priorities.