The experience of many countries is that the entrepreneurial use of mobile technology can reap huge rewards particularly in rural areas. The last sector I will mention is mining. There are currently twelve mineral exploration companies active in Solomon Islands. The sector, although currently small, is becoming increasingly active. The main short term potential for the economy lies in gold production.
According to industry predictions, a major gold mining project could be in operation on Guadalcanal by March 2010. In the longer term nickel may prove an important export for Solomon Islands. The country possesses major proven nickel reserves.