Solomon Islands Advances Bold Vision for Sustainable Tourism by 2035

The Solomon Islands is taking strategic steps to transform its tourism sector into a key driver of economic growth, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship, in alignment with the Government’s 2016-2035 National Development Strategy.

At the heart of this national effort is Tourism Solomons, the country’s leading tourism marketing and development agency, which is spearheading targeted initiatives to increase visitor numbers, build international partnerships, promote sustainable practices, and enhance stakeholder collaboration across all levels.

Now, with a focus on the future, the Solomon Islands Ministry of Culture and Tourism is developing its National Tourism Strategy, which will include the key pillars of the 2035 vision—especially sustainable tourism development, strategic marketing, and inclusive growth. To achieve the ambitious goal of increasing annual visitor arrivals from 28,000 to 100,000, Tourism Solomons has strengthened aviation partnerships. In 2024, the agency formalised a new agreement with Fiji Airways, targeting the North American market.

Ongoing talks with Air Niugini aim to improve access from Asia, complementing its long-standing cooperation with Solomon Airlines. The Solomon Islands remains focused on its main source markets—Australia and New Zealand—while also working to develop connections with the Chinese market, establishing links with leading Chinese travel agents.

Environmental sustainability is a top priority. In partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Tourism Solomons is supporting a review of the National Sustainable Tourism Policy, which will guide eco-friendly planning, especially in coastal and environmentally sensitive areas. Recognising the important role of the private sector, Tourism Solomons hosts the annual Tourism in Focus event, which facilitates dialogue between the government and tourism operators.

A National Tourism Forum, scheduled for September 2025, will further strengthen this partnership and align stakeholders on shared goals for the industry. Progress is monitored through key indicators, such as International Visitor Arrival data, as well as insights from the Business Sentiment Index (BSI) and Community Attitudes Surveys (CAS), which are developed in partnership with the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) and funded by the New Zealand Government.

Photo Credit: SPTO & David Kirkland

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