Solomon Islands: Grow the economy, reduce inflation, increase production and prepare for business investment.
I recall having read most recently that the country’s national inflation had climbed to 0.7 percent in July and that production figures were down.
I do not have precise figures for the inflation rise or details of why national production contributing to the economy was down.
It occurs to me that to take advantage of the potential of likely Chinese business investment, production of agricultural products, particularly of crops, fruits and vegetables should be encouraged and production increased. I have in mind kava, ginger, coffee, cocoa, vanilla, bananas, pineapples, noni fruit, coconuts, salad crops, tomatoes.
Farmers and fishers in Vanuatu are being encouraged to increase production after a report found the country is importing 54 percent of its fresh produce.
Minister of Agriculture Matai Seremaiah gave the advice in Torba province during the Agri-Fish Toursim festival.
The report, by the International Finance Corporation, indicates 50 percent of vegetables, 30 percent of fruit and 60 percent of meat, seafood and dairy products consumed in Vanuatu are imported.
Mr Seremaiah said his ministry would support an increase in production by strengthening links between agriculture, fisheries and tourism.
The report estimated hotels and restaurants in Port Vila spend about $US13 million every year on imported fresh produce.
Source. Radio New Zealand
Perhaps there are keys to lowering Solomon Island’s inflation figures, aiding the economy and preparing for likely business developments, by following the example being urged in Vanuatu.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
