MFR and LP Sub-Committee held consultations on 29 July
GREAT coalition moves to strengthen forest resources laws
Honiara, 12 August 2026: The Legislative and Policy Reform Subcommittee of the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet has held consultations with the Ministry of Forestry and Research on proposed amendments to the Forest Resources and Timber Utilisation Act.
The consultation on 29 July 2026 at the Ministry of Forestry office forms part of the Government’s ongoing legislative review to strengthen the legal and institutional framework governing Solomon Islands’ forest resources.
The proposed amendments aim to modernise forestry legislation and improve governance, transparency, accountability and enforcement in the sector.
Key reforms under consideration include:
- Stronger Governance: Establishment of a Forest Technical Committee and a Forestry Board to provide technical oversight and improve decision-making
- Clearer Licensing: Improved processes for Timber Rights Hearings and clearer procedures for the granting, renewal, suspension and cancellation of forestry licences
- Tougher Enforcement: Stronger measures against illegal forestry activities, increased penalties for forest offences, and better regulation of timber sales and exports
- Rehabilitation and Research: Creation of a Rehabilitation Levy Account to support reforestation, and a proposed Forestry Research Centre to strengthen research, build local capacity and protect forest biodiversity and indigenous knowledge
- Economic Returns: Establishment of an Economics and Marketing Unit to improve market information, assess resource value and promote downstream processing
The consultation also considered the need to recognise and protect the rights and interests of customary landowners and communities, given the significant role of customary and registered land in forestry activities.
The Legislative and Policy Subcommittee and the Ministry of Forestry and Research will continue to review and refine the proposed amendments to ensure they are legally sound, practical to implement, and consistent with the Constitution and other relevant laws.
The Government recognises that Solomon Islands’ forests are a vital national resource that support livelihoods, employment, government revenue and economic development. At the same time, sustainable forest management is essential to protect the environment for present and future generations.
The proposed reforms are intended to support a forestry sector that is transparent, accountable, sustainable and economically beneficial, while strengthening the protection and responsible management of Solomon Islands’ forest resources.
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