Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) wish to expressed its sincere acknowledgement and appreciation to Honiara City Council for the reduction of fees and charges for year 2025.
SICCI made their acknowledgement following the Honiara City Council’s (HCC) announcement on reducing its fees and charges for 2025, as part of the HCC (2025 Fees, Rates and Charges) Ordinance 2024, gazetted on December 30, 2024 which effective from January 1, 2025.
It is believed that previous sharp rise in fees and charges, contributed to constraints in doing business and placed significant financial pressure on private sector businesses in the country.
Addressing the business constraints in our environment needs our collective actions and initiatives. The reductions of HCC fees and charges will have a significant benefit for private business operations in the country – allowing businesses to broaden investment and services through out the country.
Solomon Islands as country with a huge SME sector approximate 70%-80% needs this kinds of initiatives that support growing the private sector. This initiative indicates the common goal and commitment both private and public sector have for the economy of Solomon Islands.
SICCI sincerely see the previouse increased tax fees and charges as one of the key components burdening the smooth running of private businesses in the country. Adding other conditions such as poor infrastructure, traffic congestion and others constraints, really affect business operations and successful deliveries of goods and services. SICCI also stated that private sector contributed much to the country’s economy through paying tax and other responsibilities.
Thus, the HCC’s decision to reduce its fees and charges for 2025 is a welcoming news for private businesses and is essential for efficient business operations in the country.
SICCI wish to see more private sector growth initiatives accorded to businesses from our respective institution in Solomon Islands, in order to foster a steady business growth in the country.
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-SICCI
