SI Group backs Solomon Islands' first special economic zone

HANOI, Vietnam, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SI Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of the Solomon Islands to serve as a strategic adviser and priority investor in the development and international promotion of the country's first Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This MOU establishes the foundation for collaboration, with a more detailed investment agreement to be finalized and presented to the Government Caucus for formal approval.

Public–Private Partnership Cooperation Signing Ceremony Special Economic Zone (SEZ) between SI Group, Growmax, and The Government of the Solomon Islands.

Solomon Islands – A Strategic Gateway in the Pacific

Situated at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific, the Solomon Islands holds a unique position on major maritime trade routes. With ongoing economic reforms and a commitment to inclusive development, the country is positioning itself as a new frontier for global investment and sustainable growth.

The Honourable Jaimie Lency VOKIA, Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration and Member of Parliament, stated:

"This MOU marks the beginning of a strategic public-private partnership. SI Group's global reach and sector expertise will help attract serious international investors to the SEZ, aligning with our national goals for economic diversification and regional integration."

A Government-Led SEZ for National Development

The Special Economic Zone, officially launched by the Government of the Solomon Islands, is a flagship initiative aimed at stimulating broad-based economic transformation. Its goals include:

• Establishing a globally competitive, well-regulated business environment
• Attracting high-impact investment, advanced technology, and international expertise
• Generating employment and enabling export-led growth across multiple sectors

A Cohesive Structure for Sustainable Growth

The SEZ will comprise a series of interconnected sub-zones, each with distinct strategic functions:

• A 100-hectare, high-tech shrimp farm targeting premium export markets (e.g., Japan and EU)
• Fisheries processing hub aligned with global safety and quality standards
• Environmentally responsible mining operations (gold and bauxite) using ESG-aligned practices

• An international hospital serving both local and regional communities
• Vocational training centers customized to SEZ workforce demands
• A luxury resort, casino, and golf course targeting high-end eco-tourism

3. Infrastructure – Finance – Logistics

• Financial services platform including a dedicated SEZ bank and investor support systems
• A strategic logistics hub with cold storage and streamlined cargo processing
• Integrated infrastructure to deliver reliable energy, water, and telecoms

All sub-zones will be developed in accordance with a national master plan to ensure operational coherence and long-term sustainability.

Implementation Roadmap: From Vision to Execution

SI Group and the Solomon Islands Government have agreed on a structured implementation roadmap to realize the SEZ through phased development:

• Formalization of the SEZ Investment Agreement and submission to the Government Caucus
• Establishment of SI Group's office in Honiara
• Launch of initial pilot projects in healthcare, aquaculture, and logistics
• Engagement of anchor investors and technical consultants
• Finalization of the SEZ's legal and regulatory frameworks

• Full-scale development of SEZ sub-zones across targeted provinces
• Infrastructure deployment and utility integration
• Public-private partnerships for job creation and capacity building
• Significant growth in FDI and economic diversification
• Establishment of the Solomon Islands as a model for sustainable SEZ development in the Pacific

SI Group – Strategic Adviser and Priority Investor

Under the terms of the MOU, SI Group will serve as a strategic adviser and priority investor on major investment opportunities within the zone. SI Group's role includes:

• Advising on SEZ development strategy, structure, and international best practices
• Promoting the SEZ to global investors and multilateral institutions
• Facilitating capital mobilization and technical partnerships
• Supporting legal, financial, and regulatory alignment to attract long-term investment

Website: www.sigroup.vn