Solomon Islands
Introduction
The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the bitterest fighting of World War II occurred on this archipelago. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Ethnic violence, government malfeasance, endemic crime, and a narrow economic base have undermined stability and civil society. In June 2003, then Prime Minister Sir Allan KEMAKEZA sought the assistance of Australia in reestablishing law and order; the following month, an Australian-led multinational force arrived to restore peace and disarm ethnic militias. The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has generally been effective in restoring law and order and rebuilding government institutions.
Capital
Honiara
Official Languages
Melanesian pidgin, English
Currency
Solomon Islands dollars (SBD) per US dollar
Geography
Location
Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea
Area
Total: 28,896 sq. km land: 27,986 sq. km water: 910 sq. km
Climate
Tropical monsoon; few temperature and weather extremes
Natural resources
Fish, forests, gold, bauxite, phosphates, lead, zinc, nickel
Land use
Agricultural land: 3.9% arable land 0.7%; permanent crops 2.9%; permanent pasture 0.3%forest: 78.9% other: 17.2% (2011 est.)
Economy
Overview
The bulk of the population depends on agriculture, fishing, and forestry for at least part of its livelihood. Most manufactured goods and petroleum products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped mineral resources such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. Prior to the arrival of The Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI), severe ethnic violence, the closing of key businesses, and an empty government treasury culminated in economic collapse. RAMSI's efforts to restore law and order and economic stability have led to modest growth as the economy rebuilds
Agriculture Products
Cocoa, coconuts, palm kernels, rice, fruit; cattle, pigs; fish; timber
Industries
Fish (tuna), mining, timber
Exports Commodities
Timber, fish, copra, palm oil, cocoa
Imports Commodities
Food, plant and equipment, manufactured goods, fuels, chemicals
Useful Links
Ministry of commerce, industry, labour, and immigration
Ministry of Finance and Treasury
Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industries
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