Tourism has been identified by the Government as a key potential growth area. This sector has seen a 16% year-on-year growth in the second quarter of 2009. This is a very positive sign for the economy. One major contributor to this growth has been the recent entry of a low cost carrier to the Brisbane/Honiara route.
This has increased competition and dramatically lowered fares for travelers. The upgrading of hotel facilities around Honiara and the opening of a new hotel on Honiara's waterfront may also boost tourism in the county. Limited infrastructure and problems with domestic air and sea travel, remains the major barrier to developing the tourism industry across the country.