Solomon Islands Advances Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Implementation Through Strategic Mission to Davao City, Philippines.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour & Immigration (MCILI) is pleased to inform the public of the Solomon Islands Government’s continued progress in implementing the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Act 2025 through a high-level strategic mission to Davao City, Philippines.

The delegation, jointly led by the Permanent Secretary of MCILI and the Permanent Secretary of Lands, Housing & Survey, reflects the Government’s strong commitment to advancing SEZs as a national strategy to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), promote industrial growth, create employment, and support long-term economic development.

A key priority of the mission was engagement with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and Davao City investment authorities, where the delegation gained practical insights into the development, management, and operation of successful Special Economic Zones.

The delegation also visited industrial parks and economic zones under PEZA in Davao City, gaining firsthand exposure to investment facilitation, SEZ operations, infrastructure planning, regulatory systems, and public-private sector coordination.

The mission provided Solomon Islands officials with practical insights into how Special Economic Zones attract investment, promote exports, and drive economic growth.

The experience gained will support the implementation of the SEZ Act 2025 and the establishment of the Solomon Islands Special Economic Zones Authority (SISEZA).

Delegation Members

PS MCILI, Riley Mesepitu; PS Lands, Mr. Stanley Waleanisia; Director FI, Mrs. Lynette Dawheya; Deputy Director, Mrs. Sially Turanga; Commissioner IRD, Joseph Dokekana; IRD Legal Officer, Mr. Hitchen Dauara; Comptroller Customs, Mr. John Lagi; PMO Representative/COS, Douglas Ete; Director Sub Committee SEZ, Mr. Brian Wate; PS Policy, Mr. Rictor Luaboe; Director Immigration, Mr. Christopher Akosawa; Director Industries, Mr. Jacob Gala; Principal Labour Officer, Mr. Norlan Rongofanua; Principal Immigration Officer, Mr. Isaac Mani; Principal Investment Officer, Stephanie Nasihunu; Executive Secretary, Andrea Tora.

Commitment to National Development

These engagements reflect the Solomon Islands Government’s commitment to strengthening SEZ development to attract sustainable Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), promote economic growth, and create employment opportunities.