PR 06.26 – CBSI Warns against the use of Solomon Islands banknotes in traditional ornaments and crafts 

The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) wishes to advise the public that the practice of using, weaving, or incorporating Solomon Islands banknotes into traditional ornaments, decorations, or crafts is illegal and must cease immediately.

Section 21(5) of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands Act 2012 states that any person who wilfully alters the external appearance of currency notes or coins commits an offence and may be subject to administrative penalties. In accordance with Section 63(1) of the Act, the Central Bank may impose administrative penalties on any person who contravenes the provisions of the Act or any other relevant law.

This is further reinforced by Section 364 of the Solomon Islands Penal Code, which provides that any person who, without lawful authority or excuse, mutilates or defaces a currency note whether by writing, printing, drawing, stamping, or attaching or affixing any material such as advertisements is guilty of a misdemeanour and liable to a fine of up to 2,000 penalty units.

These provisions clearly outline the legal consequences of damaging or altering currency. The Central Bank therefore urges members of the public to treat all banknotes and coins with care and to avoid any actions that may damage or deface the nation’s currency. Members of the public are therefore reminded that engaging in such practices is an offence under the law.

Banknotes are issued strictly as legal tender for transactions and payments. Any form of alteration, defacement, or misuse including weaving, stitching, folding into ornaments, or attaching to traditional items constitutes tampering with legal tender. Such actions significantly shorten the lifespan of banknotes, cause unnecessary damage, and undermine their intended purpose as a reliable medium of exchange.

CBSI further advises that the Bank spends millions of dollars to have our banknotes printed solely for the purpose of transacting goods and services, and not for any other use. The misuse of banknotes places an unnecessary financial burden on the country due to increased replacement costs.

CBSI acknowledges and respects the rich cultural traditions of Solomon Islands communities. However, the use of banknotes in cultural displays or crafts defeats the correct and lawful purpose of Solomon Islands legal tender and compromises the integrity of the national currency.

CBSI is the sole authority mandated to issue and regulate banknotes in Solomon Islands and has the legal responsibility to protect the banknotes from misuse, damage, and unlawful handling.

Failure to comply with currency laws may result in enforcement actions in accordance with applicable legislation.

CBSI calls on community leaders, cultural groups, and the public to support this effort by promoting responsible and lawful use of banknotes, while preserving cultural practices through alternative materials that do not involve legal tender.

For more information, or clarification, contact the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) on 21791 or Email: info@cbsi.com.sb  | Website: www.cbsi.com.sb