GTPA has just finished delivering training in the Solomon Islands

10.10.2023 Lisa McAuley,CEO
GTPA has just finished delivering training in the Solomon Islands

During these dark times, we wanted to spread some positivity. GTPA recently completed the delivery of a series of training workshops in Solomon Islands. Implemented by Nathan Associates, the US-SEGA Program’s goal is to improve the policy environment for sustainable economic growth and prosperity, regional economic cooperation, sound management of institutions and good governance throughout Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and the Indo-Pacific region, while also expanding markets for U.S. goods and services. 

The primary goal of the Solomon Islands-SCALE T&I Project was to improve the business enabling environment in order to encourage more trade and investment in Solomon Islands by reducing the cost and steps of obtaining business permits and licenses; improving trade and investment facilitation; and strengthening the competition environment.

SCALE T&I partnered with Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) to deliver a series of export promotion training workshops to businesses in highly competitive agricultural product segments (i.e., coconut, cocoa, and kava sectors). Participants are SICCI members, and range from firms who are currently exporting, export-ready, or beginning to think about exporting.

The training series GTPA was engaged to deliver helped to equip private sector actors with an understanding of key trade policy and trade facilitation topics, practicalities of exporting, and resources/tools available to apply this knowledge within their organisations. It also served as a building block for industry coordination, collaboration, and engagement on trade policy and facilitation issues that impact the competitiveness of their businesses.

At the conclusion of the GTPA training component, Asia Pacific Director Ms Collins Rex, who delivered the training in person, received wonderful feedback from the delegates, including the letter below.

In addition on the final day the participants also sung a very special song for Collins, you can check this beautiful video out here: https://vimeo.com/872768428?share=copy

A warm greeting from the beautiful Hapi Isles. I trust this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to extend our deepest gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for the incredible work you've done during your recent visit to Honiara, Solomon Islands. The Export Promotion Training you conducted has left a profound impact on all of us.

Your dedication to enhancing trade knowledge and promoting global trade professionalism is truly commendable. Your expertise and insights shared during the training were invaluable, and they have undoubtedly equipped our team in Honiara with a heightened understanding of the intricacies of export promotion especially on product standards and certification and product development and marketing which we are so thankful for.

Your role as the Asia Director of GTPA based in Australia has shone brightly through your dynamic and engaging training sessions. Your return to our region has not only enriched us with new perspectives but has also solidified the strong bond between GTPA and the trade community in the Solomon Islands.

The commitment and enthusiasm you exhibited during your time with us are genuinely inspiring. Your willingness to share your expertise and experiences have empowered us to navigate the complexities of global trade with greater confidence and competence.

On behalf of everyone who participated in the training sessions, we want to express my sincerest thanks. Your visit has not only imparted knowledge but has also fostered a sense of

collaboration and unity among us. Your contributions have undoubtedly left a lasting mark, and we are excited to continue our journey towards further trade excellence with the lessons we've learned from you.

Please rest assured that your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and your impact will continue to resonate as we apply the insights gained from your training. We look forward to the possibility of future collaborations and the opportunity to learn from your expertise once again.

Once more, thank you for your unwavering dedication to promoting global trade professionalism, and for gracing us with your presence and wisdom during your time in Honiara. Wishing you safe travels back to Australia and continued success in all your endeavours.

Warmest regards,

Peter Iro

Kava Boy's Conner