/ Solomon Islands
Overview
Solomon Islands is an archipelago nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, situated east of Papua New Guinea and northwest of Vanuatu. It consists of six major islands and over 900 smaller islands and atolls, spanning a total land area of approximately 28,400 square kilometers. The country has an estimated population of 780,500 as of early 2026. Solomon Islands is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, administratively divided into nine provinces: Central, Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Isabel, Makira-Ulawa, Malaita, Rennell and Bellona, Temotu, and Western; and the capital territory of Honiara.
In 2025, the GDP reached approximately US$1.72 billion, and per capita GDP was US$2,240. The Solomon Islands' economy is heavily reliant on the primary sector, though the service sector accounts for c.48% of its GDP, largely driven by public administration and retail. Consumption and foreign direct investment in the mining and energy sectors are the primary drivers of economic growth. The country’s economy is deeply integrated into regional trade networks, particularly for raw material exports. Its largest trading partners are China, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia. Solomon Islands is a major producer of rough timber, which remains its primary export, followed by processed fish, palm oil, copra, and gold. The sustainable fisheries and mining sectors (including nickel and bauxite) are expected to be major future growth drivers. Additionally, the tourism sector is an emerging contributor, providing c.4.5% to the GDP as the country expands infrastructure following the 2023 Pacific Games. The country's industrial sector (including mining and construction) represents approximately 14% of its GDP, while agriculture, forestry, and fishing employ c.70% of the total labor force. However, challenges remain regarding infrastructure deficits, vulnerability to natural disasters, and the depletion of natural timber stocks. Imports of refined petroleum, food products, and manufactured goods are among the highest in the country, with top import partners being Australia, China, and Singapore.
Solomon Islands has a diverse history, with Melanesian settlers inhabiting the islands for at least 30,000 years. The archipelago gained international significance as a major theater of operations during World War II, most notably the Battle of Guadalcanal. The country gained independence from British protectorate status on July 7, 1978. Since then, Solomon Islands has focused on nation-building and economic diversification, navigating periods of internal tension while strengthening regional cooperation through the Pacific Islands Forum.
