[Honiara, Solomon Islands, May 5, 2025] The PITA (Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association) Annual Business Forum & Expo 2025, the largest and most influential annual conference of the ICT industry in Pacific region, brings hundreds of representatives from governments, telcos, vendors, and media to Solomon Islands from April 28th to May 2nd at the Heritage Park Hotel, Honiara.
On the first day of PITA 2025, Mr. Denny Deng, President of Carrier Business Group Asia Pacific Region, delivered a keynote speech based on “Strengthening Digital Sovereignty and Connectivity through Sustainable ICT Innovation” highlighting the transformative role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the Pacific Islands’ digital economy. The keynote address underscored the region’s rapid progress, the pivotal role of carriers, and the vast opportunities ahead with AI and digital services.
Mr. Deng has emphasised that carriers deliver three (3) key values to the Pacific Islands—Connection Value, Industry Value, and Era Value. Firstly, Connection Value fosters a fully interconnected ecosystem of individuals, homes, and IoT, propelling digital services expansion in the Pacific Islands while underscoring opportunities to enhance 4G penetration for broader connectivity. Next, Industry Value focuses on maximising ICT’s role in advancing the digital economy and fostering a collaborative, sustainable business environment. Finally, Era Value emphasises integrating intelligence into society through initiatives in AI driven transformations that can address regional Unique Challenges such as geographical isolation, developing data infrastructure, and vulnerability to natural disasters. Together, carriers deliver these 3 key values to drive Pacific Islands’ societal connectivity and economic growth through innovative technology.
The Pacific Islands have made significant strides in ICT development over the past year. With strong GDP growth mirroring trends in the broader APAC region, digital services are booming, driven by increasing connectivity and innovation. While 4G penetration continues to expand, there remains room for growth, presenting carriers with opportunities to bridge gaps and enhance network coverage.
Mr. Deng also acknowledged the industry’s collective efforts in advancing digital infrastructure, praising trusted partners for their collaboration in driving sustainable and inclusive progress.
As a global leader in ICT, Huawei remains committed to innovation and sustainability. In 2024, the company has intensified its R&D investments, focusing on cutting-edge solutions that empower carriers to deliver superior connectivity and efficiency. Sustainability remains a cornerstone of Huawei’s strategy, with green ICT solutions reducing energy consumption and environmental impact across the Pacific.
The speech expressed gratitude to partners for their trust and collaboration, reinforcing Huawei’s dedication to supporting the region’s digital transformation through reliable, future-ready technologies.
The digital economy is a powerful engine for growth in the Pacific, creating new possibilities across industries. Carriers play a crucial role in this evolution by enhancing productivity, security, and user experience in business (2B), consumer (2C), and home (2H) sectors. Mr. Deng has emphasised that connection is an essential element to boost all Industries with ICT technology such as for video/live broadcast, education, healthcare, and government.
Artificial Intelligence is poised to revolutionize the Pacific’s digital landscape. With breakthroughs in automation, data analytics, and smart applications, AI enhances productivity and operational efficiency across sectors. The speech emphasised that carriers must continue investing in robust infrastructure to pave the way for AI adoption, ensuring the region remains competitive in the global digital economy.
The Pacific Islands stand at a pivotal moment in their digital journey. By strengthening connectivity, embracing AI, and fostering industry collaboration, the region can unlock unprecedented growth and innovation. Mr. Deng reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting this vision, working hand-in-hand with partners to build a smarter, more connected Pacific.
As the ICT industry accelerates, the carrier’s three key values for accelerating digital economy—Connection, Industry, and Era will continue to guide progress, ensuring that the Pacific Islands harness the full potential of the digital age.
Mr. Denny Deng closes with “In Pacific, For Pacific. Together, We Transform, Together, We Lead Digital Economy Growth.”
