NICE, France – Monday, 9 June 2025 — The Solomon Islands government has announced a moratorium on deep sea prospecting and mining, reaffirming its commitment to protect the nation’s rich marine environment and support sustainable ocean use. This decision was highlighted by Prime Minister, Honourable Jeremiah Manele, during his statement at the 3rd United Nations Oceans Conference in Nice, France.
As a nation deeply connected to the ocean culturally, economically, and environmentally, Solomon Islands recognizes the significant risks posed by deep sea mining, including environmental degradation and threats to marine biodiversity. The moratorium aligns with the position of the Melanesian Spearhead Group and underscores the country’s precautionary approach in managing ocean resources.
“Solomon Islands stands firm against harmful exploitation of the ocean,” the Prime Minister emphasized, calling for a shift towards sustainable use grounded in scientific understanding and global cooperation.
The moratorium reflects wider concerns over ongoing international debates about deep sea mining, which is being pursued in some quarters despite limited scientific knowledge and environmental safeguards. The Solomon Islands government is calling for increased global attention to the environmental and social risks involved and is urging greater financial, technological, and capacity-building support to explore sustainable alternatives.
This move comes as part of Solomon Islands’ broader efforts to implement Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) and to ensure that ocean resources continue to support the livelihoods of coastal communities and future generations.
[ENDS]
PM Press Secretariat
