The Solomon Islands National E-commerce Strategy 2022–2027

The Solomon Islands National E-commerce Strategy 2022–2027 is a detailed plan designed to guide the country’s digital transformation through the advancement of e-commerce. The strategy envisions a future in which e-commerce serves as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and market integration. It emphasises that by 2027, digital commerce should be fully supporting businesses and consumers across the country, bringing rural and urban markets together, creating employment opportunities, increasing exports, and encouraging innovation.

This strategy is deeply connected to the country’s broader development goals, particularly those outlined in the National Development Strategy 2016–2035. It recognises the challenges posed by the Solomon Islands’ unique geography, which includes over 300 populated islands spread across a wide area, leading to fragmented domestic markets and limited market access for businesses, especially in remote areas. However, the strategy stresses that e-commerce can help bridge these divides by expanding market reach, reducing costs, and allowing businesses to connect with new customers domestically and internationally.

The government has identified several areas for action. First, there is a need to create a more supportive policy environment for e-commerce, ensuring that relevant ministries and agencies work together effectively and that the private sector is actively involved. The establishment of permanent institutions such as the National E-commerce Steering Committee and a dedicated E-commerce Implementation Unit reflects this commitment to coordination. These bodies are tasked with monitoring the implementation of the strategy and ensuring it remains aligned with national priorities.

The strategy also prioritises improving digital infrastructure, particularly expanding access to affordable and reliable internet services. The arrival of the Coral Sea Cable System and the development of domestic networks have laid the groundwork for broader internet coverage, but further work is needed to ensure that people in all provinces benefit from high-speed connectivity. Expanding digital infrastructure will support the development of e-government services, which in turn will help foster trust in online platforms and boost digital literacy.

Trade logistics and delivery services represent another major focus. The strategy calls for strengthening the logistics network to support the growth of e-commerce, including improving physical infrastructure and encouraging the development of courier and delivery services. Enhancing the regulatory environment is also essential, particularly in areas such as consumer protection, cybersecurity, and data privacy, where new laws and regulations are needed to promote trust and facilitate digital trade.

The strategy also recognises the critical role of digital payments in enabling e-commerce. With much of the economy still reliant on cash, expanding access to digital payment systems such as mobile money and mobile banking will be essential for increasing the use of online commerce, particularly in rural areas. Financial inclusion efforts are closely tied to these initiatives.

Another key area of focus is skills development. The strategy outlines the need for initiatives that improve digital literacy and build entrepreneurial skills related to e-commerce. This includes supporting both new and existing businesses to use digital tools, developing training programs, and fostering a culture of innovation.

Access to finance is identified as a significant barrier for many small and medium-sized enterprises interested in engaging in e-commerce. The strategy calls for improving access to affordable financing, enhancing creditworthiness assessments, and supporting venture capital initiatives to encourage investment in digital businesses.

The government has designed the strategy to be both flexible and adaptive. Pilot projects are proposed to test different approaches and allow for adjustments based on results and evolving needs. These pilot initiatives are seen as an important way to explore what works in the local context and to scale up successful solutions.

A strong emphasis is placed on empowering women through e-commerce. Recognising the central role that women play in the informal economy, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and local marketplaces, the strategy includes specific targets and actions to support women entrepreneurs. It encourages leveraging existing initiatives that focus on women’s economic empowerment and integrating these efforts into the broader e-commerce agenda.

Ultimately, the Solomon Islands National E-commerce Strategy seeks to foster inclusive economic growth by using digital trade as a tool for transformation. It aims to promote collaboration among government agencies, businesses, civil society, and development partners to ensure that all citizens can benefit from the opportunities offered by the digital economy. The strategy serves as a long-term roadmap for building a more connected, competitive, and resilient Solomon Islands.