⬅ SECTORS
To address the declining natural forest logging industry, Strongim Bisnis aims to expand the plantation timber industry and improve domestic processing. The program focuses on supporting timber businesses to tap into the local market for value-added plantation timber and improving access for smallholder plantations. Despite a high-cost environment and global market competition, the initiative seeks to enhance market opportunities and processing capacity.
The Solomon Islands timber sector relies heavily on round log exports, with only a small fraction of wood exports processed locally. As the natural forest logging industry declines, there is a critical need to expand plantation timber and enhance domestic processing capabilities. Strongim Bisnis is focusing on improving plantation timber value chains and downstream processing to ensure the sector's long-term sustainability.
Timber has historically been vital to the Solomon Islands’ economy, contributing up to 80% of foreign earnings. However, the sector is currently challenged by diminishing forest resources and a focus on short-term logging. Despite these issues, the plantation timber sector presents significant opportunities. Much of the timber is exported as unprocessed logs, yet there is potential for increased value through downstream processing. By collaborating with exporters and processors, Strongim Bisnis aims to improve market access for plantation out-growers, enhancing both domestic and export opportunities.
Expanding Timber Processing Capabilities:
Promoting Market Growth for Value-Added Timber Products:
Improving Smallholder Timber Supply Chains:
Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GEDSI):
Public-Private Sector Collaboration:
Australian Business Collaboration:
In 2024, Strongim Bisnis will enhance the timber sector by supporting local businesses in processing and market expansion, addressing import costs, and promoting sustainable practices. The program is currently partnered SolTuna to continue to collaborate with key partners to strengthen the timber value chain and improve market access.
The program has partnered with SolTuna.
SolTuna
In 2023, Strongim Bisnis partnered with Tropic Group Builders (TGB) to advance the Solomon Islands' timber sector. This collaboration focused on enhancing local furniture production from plantation timber through strategic investments in machinery and supply chain development. The initiative showcased the potential for scaling up domestic timber processing and improving product quality.
