Biosecurity Solomon Islands Strengthens Timber Exports, Safeguarding Jobs and Rural Livelihoods

Honiara, Solomon Islands – Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) has successfully supported Top Timber Company (TTC) to prepare for a key export pathway audit by Biosecurity Vanuatu—helping secure ongoing timber exports, protect jobs, and sustain rural livelihoods.

Conducted between September 2025 and April 2026, this work reflects internationally recognized biosecurity practices that ensure traded goods meet the standards required by importing countries.

Crucially, this achievement builds on long-standing Australian support through the Solomon Islands Biosecurity Development Program (SIBDP). Over many years, this partnership has strengthened Solomon Islands’ biosecurity systems, technical capability, and regulatory frameworks—enabling BSI to work effectively with industry and maintain access to international markets.

Ms. Jean Eroa, Director of BSI, said strong collaboration between government and the private sector is central to trade success.

“This is a positive and important process that demonstrates our shared commitment to compliance, transparency, and safe trade,” Ms Eroa said.

For TTC, the outcome is clear: continued access to export markets, including Vanuatu. The company exports timber across the Pacific and beyond and plays a significant role in the national economy.

Since 2010, TTC has supported more than 30,000 Solomon Islands families, while directly employing over 200 local staff and 65 expatriate workers. Its ongoing investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and community support underpins sustainable economic growth.

TTC Manager Exports/ Finance, Mr. Priyan Fernando said the process had strengthened the company’s systems and readiness for international trade.

“This has been extremely valuable for our team. We’ve strengthened our systems, improved our understanding of biosecurity requirements, and are now better positioned for future audits and continued market access,” he said.

“It gives us confidence that we are effectively managing risks such as pests, diseases and contaminants—ensuring smooth export processes and reliable supply to our partners.”

The effort has also been strengthened by hands-on technical support under SIBDP, including mentoring from Mr. Tanuvasa Semy Siakimotu, Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) biosecurity adviser based in Honiara. Working alongside BSI, Mr. Siakimotu has supported practical improvements to systems, documentation, and risk management aligned with international best practice.

The Biosecurity Vanuatu audit concluded with positive feedback, with auditors noting strong progress in how TTC manages biosecurity risks along the export pathway.

Beyond this single audit, the impact is broader. Effective biosecurity systems:

• Protect Solomon Islands from pests and diseases
• Enable safe, reliable trade
• Strengthen confidence with trading partners
• Support jobs and economic growth

With around 80% of Solomon Islanders relying on rural livelihoods, strong export industries like timber are critical to inclusive development.

Through partnerships like SIBDP, Australia continues to support Solomon Islands to strengthen biosecurity, expand trade opportunities, and protect its natural environment.

BSI remains committed to working with industry, partners, and regional counterparts to ensure Solomon Islands products meet global standards and reach markets safely and efficiently.

Ends//