The Solomon Islands government is seeking to increase the number of businesses reserved for locals.
Currently, 14 categories are reserved for locals, including vegetable and root crop farming for domestic markets, and the sale of handicrafts and artefacts.
The foreign investment officer at the commerce ministry, Christopher Nagu, says the government hopes to encourage more indigenous citizens to be involved in the local economy.
"We want our locals to participate in the business, that our free for us and leave to the foreigners that involves a lot of inputs, and technology know-how all this, we leave it to the foreigners to do. And we, the simple ones, for us locals to operate".
Christopher Nagu says public submissions are being sought and consultations will run until the end of September.
Eastern entrance to the Honiara Central Market Photo: RNZ Koroi Hawkins
