The Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant Project has reached a major milestone, completing its concept design after a year of geotechnical studies and intensive planning.
The detailed design—covering the port, marine-side infrastructure, and onshore facilities—was presented last week in Honiara to the project’s cross-government Technical Working Group (TWG). The concept is now sufficiently advanced to be costed and will guide Government on the level of investment required.
TWG Chair and Deputy Secretary (Projects) at the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Ms Lisa Sugumanu, said the next major challenge is securing finance for the project.
“MFMR is in dialogue with several development partners and major tuna operators. We have also entered into agreements with two Pacific Island tuna nations interested in supplying tuna to Solomon Islands under the East New Britain initiative,” she said.
While the project is economically viable and expected to deliver significant national benefits, it will require concessional loans and grants to offset high construction costs. The International Finance Corporation (IFC), together with Castalia Group, is currently developing the business case and has noted the project’s potential to positively contribute to stability and peace in Solomon Islands.
Permanent Secretary of MFMR, Dr Christian Ramofafia, welcomed the progress.
“This is a major national project, and we have strong ambitions for the development of Bina and Malaita,” he said.
The concept design was delivered by Kramer Asia Pacific (land-side infrastructure) and Haskoning Australia (wharf and port facilities), with costings undertaken by WH Partnership.
The port design includes a dedicated berth, container and cargo handling yard, and supporting infrastructure such as access roads, utilities, offices, accommodation, and storage facilities. The tuna processing plant itself will be designed, financed, and operated by a global tuna industry investor.
The Bina Harbour Project Office is funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, supporting the Solomon Islands Government in delivering this important development.
Source: Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources – Solomon Islands