SOLOMON Islands has a new website for biosecurity that was launched in Honiara on Thursday.
The Australian Government funded the website, which is one of the activities under the $14 million budget that runs from 2013-2016.
Under the same funding, the Australia government supported other projects as well.
Rebecca Gibb, Counsellor, Economics and Strategy of the Australia High Commission, said biosecurity is an important element for businesses and economic growth in Solomon Islands.
She said it is to help the exporters and importers in their businesses and also to protect the natural environment of Solomon Islands
Jim Saelea, permanent secretary of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, said the site describes all the processes they have to help importers to import almost any item safely.
He said it provides access to their import requirements for specific items so you will be able to find out what you need to do before you order items from overseas.
“It holds copies of all application forms which you can print out, complete and submit well before planned importations.
“For exporters the site describes the processes and negotiations required with the importing country, it is designed to help guide exporters through these procedures saving time and money,” Mr Saelea said.
“Remember our exports are someone else’s imports and they want to protect their country from pests too,” he added.
Mr Saelea said for travellers, there is a section describing what can be brought in safely and what they need to do if they want to hand carry a plant or animal.
“It stresses the severe penalties we have in place for people who intentionally try to avoid our processes.
“Like all good websites there is a section with frequently asked questions, a section on how to contact the Biosecurity Office, sections with news of new pests or new activities or regulations, and sections providing resource documents such as our Act and Regulations, forms and fees,” he added.
The site is http://www.biosecurity.gov.sb
By EDDIE OSIFELO
