HR203

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

HR 203: RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY.

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