Increased Tourism Budget Set to Trigger Growth

THE national government’s increased budgetary support of more than SB$46 million this year is set to trigger growth in the tourism sector.

The Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hon. Choylin Yim Douglas announced this budgetary support early this week during the Tourism In Focus Summit in Honiara which gathered experts and stakeholders to share information, exchange ideas, and collectively set directions for the future of the sector.

The government recognizes the immense potential of tourism to stimulate economic growth, create meaningful jobs, and to improve the livelihoods of people.

To demonstrate its commitment to this vision, the government has significantly increased its budget support this year through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism with an allocation of more than SB$46 million – an increase of $36 million from SB$10 million annually in the last 3 years.

This increased funding is strategically allocated to trigger growth in targeted areas and to transform the sector in line with the Government’s ambition of achieving 100,000 visitor arrivals by 2035.

Hon Douglas urged stakeholders to embrace this goal to build a thriving tourism industry.

“We are fully committed to unlocking this potential and positioning tourism as a fundamental part of our economy,” She said.

“This vision is not just about increasing numbers. It is about creating sustainable growth, enhancing visitor experiences, and delivering real long-term economic benefits to our people,” Hon Douglas added.

The Tourism In Focus is an annual gathering of tourism experts and stakeholders aimed at information sharing, exchanging ideas, and collectively setting directions for the growth of the sector.

This year, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in collaboration with Tourism Solomons, will be implementing strategic initiatives to accelerate the journey towards achieving this target. These include:

Product Development and Diversification – A collaboration between government and operators to develop new tourism products and experiences, ensuring the sector caters to the evolving needs of travelers while maintaining the country’s cultural authenticity and environmental sustainability.

Investment in Infrastructure and Accommodation – The government will support investments in new hotels and the upgrading of existing facilities to meet international standards.

Aggressive Marketing and Promotion – Enhancing marketing efforts to position the Solomon Islands as a premier tourist destination. Campaigns will target key markets and showcase the country’s unique cultures, pristine natural environment, and diverse experiences.

Capacity Building and Training – Invest in training programs to enhance service quality and build a skilled tourism workforce that delivers exceptional visitor experiences.

Collaborative Partnerships – Foster stronger public-private partnerships and engagement with international development partners to support the growth agenda.

These are the targeted areas that the Government will be investing in to stimulate growth.

Hon. Douglas expressed confidence that with increased collaboration, everyone can transform the Solomon Islands into a top-class tourist destination.

“This is a journey of growth, prosperity, and opportunity for all of us. It is about empowering our communities, preserving our cultures, and showcasing the unique beauty of the Solomon Islands to the world,” she said.

Source: Government Communication Unit