HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.R. NO.	203
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025
STATE OF HAWAII

HOUSE RESOLUTION

 

 

relating to economic development and technology.

 

 

 

     WHEREAS, the State's heavy reliance on imports increases vulnerability, and economic diversification remains a state priority; and

 

     WHEREAS, historical evidence - from the State's 19th- and early 20th-century sugar and pineapple industries, as well as pre-contact self-sufficiency - shows local production can reduce dependence and strengthen local communities; and

 

     WHEREAS, neighboring economies initially protected and supported domestic sectors (e.g., agriculture, textiles, energy) to build industrial capacity; and

 

     WHEREAS, the State can apply lessons from these import substitution models to spur local manufacturing, agriculture, and energy production; now, therefore,

 

     BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Thirty-third Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2025, that the State of Hawaii and its political subdivisions are urged to consider import substitution as a key strategy for economic growth and diversification, and that relevant agencies:

 

     (1)  Identify priority sectors where local production can reduce imports;

 

     (2)  Develop policies and incentives supporting such industries; and

 

     (3)  Collaborate with private, academic, and community stakeholders to share knowledge and foster innovation; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Governor, Mayors of each county, and the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu are requested to submit a report of findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2026; and

 

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Resolution be transmitted to the Governor; Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Chairperson of the Board of Agriculture; Executive Director of the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation; and Mayors of the counties of Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai and Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu.

 

 

 

	OFFERED BY:	_____________________________

Report Title: 

Import Substitution; Economic Development