Established in 1982 and fully integrated into the local economy by 2006, the Solar Salt Division produces premium-quality solar salt through traditional solar evaporation from our ponds. Using only sunlight and seawater, this eco-friendly method reflects Kiritimati’s commitment to sustainability.
Located at Manulu Lagoon in Banana Village, the division operates nine evaporation ponds, each capable of producing 20–40 tonnes of natural crystal salt. As one of Kiritimati’s unique natural resources, Solar Salt Division supports Ministry of Line and Phoenix Island’s Development (MLPID) goals in terms of local employment, reduces reliance on imports, and contributes to resilient, self-sufficient island development.

Video courtesy of Diamond Crystal. © 2023 Diamond Crystal. All rights reserved. (For educational purpose ONLY)

VISION
To be a leading model in sustainable and eco-friendly salt production, contributing to the economic groth of Kiritbati while empowering local communities and protecting our environment.

MISION
To produce hight-quality solar salt through innovative and enviromentally responsible methods, while fostering economic development, providing empolyment opportunities, and supporting the long-term sustainability of Kiritimati Island.

Key Function/Responsibilities

1. Produce of Solar Salt
Utilizing the natural evaporation process of seawater under the sun, the division produce high-quality, eco-friendly salt. This method ensures a sustainable and clean resources, contributing to the island's economic activities.

2. Economic Contribution
The solar salt operation supports local employment and contributes to the economic growth of Kiritimati Island by providing a sustainable resource for both local use and potential export.

3. Community Integration
By offering permanent empolyment to local staff, the division foster community involvement and ensures that the benefits of the solar salt initiative are shared with the local population.

4. Sustainable Resource Management
The Divsion emphasizes the importance of sustainable practises in resource extraction, alighing with Kiribati's broader goalsof environmental conservation and resilience against climate change.

5. International & Domestic Salt Export
The solar Salt Division supplies high-quality solar salt both locally and internationally. Domestic, it has served nearby islands such as Teraina and tabuaren, while internationally, it has successfully exported to Japan, showing Kiritimati's salt on the global market.

These are some of the project higlight under the Solar Salt Unit.

- Export Salt to Japan