Local business owners in Solomon Islands are increasingly disappointed with the government’s prioritization of foreign-owned hotels and resorts over the country’s crumbling infrastructure.
Last year alone, the Ministry of Finance granted multi-million-dollar tax exemptions in the name of promoting tourism and attracting investors. However, many local business owners and residents view this decision as misguided, questioning why so much focus is placed on luxury accommodations when the country’s basic services are in dire need of improvement.
One local business owner expressed frustration, calling it “one of the most stupid things I have heard.” He pointed out that while the government invests in tax breaks for foreign hotels and resorts, the country’s essential infrastructure, such as roads, water supply, and power systems, remains in poor condition. “How are we prioritizing these foreign-owned businesses when our basic infrastructures are in terrible condition?” he asked.
There is concern that tourists, who may flock to high-end accommodations, will still require basic services that are currently unreliable. “Tourists are not only here to sleep in luxurious hotels; they will also need basic services, which we cannot provide,” one local business owner remarked.
He explained that the government’s approach to “forcing bananas to ripen,” implying that the government is hastily pushing for an outcome without addressing underlying issues.
Others in the community worry that these policies will deter genuine investors. With frequent water and power outages, along with poor road conditions and traffic congestion, Solomon Islands is not seen as a stable environment for long-term investment. “Genuine investors will never want to come here because of the problems with basic infrastructure,” said a local farmer.
In light of these concerns, many argue that fast-tracking tax exemptions for the tourism sector is a waste of money, especially when so many basic needs remain unmet. The people of Solomon Islands are calling on the government to rethink its priorities and focus on improving the fundamental services that all residents rely on, rather than pouring resources into high-end luxury tourism projects.
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