What do business leaders look for as signs of recovery in Papua New Guinea’s economy? In the second of a two-part series, Business Advantage PNG gets views from senior executives in finance, manufacturing and agribusiness.
Manufacturing
Monier is Papua New Guinea’s largest producer of construction and building materials. In PNG’s demanding environment, a focus on quality has been key to its success.
Where in the world is Yamaha’s biggest boat manufacturing project? It’s in Papua New Guinea, Takeshi Abe, Chief Executive Officer of Ela Motors, tells Business Advantage PNG. He says a new 23-footer boat has been specifically designed to meet PNG flotation standards—and it’s being made in-country.
In the second of a two-part series, Steamships Managing Director Peter Langslow tells Business Advantage PNG that his diversified company is looking to upgrade its manufacturing activities, upgrade more hotels and is planning more property development in Papua New Guinea.
The difficulty in getting foreign exchange is making goods made in Papua New Guinea more attractive, local manufacturers tell ‘Business Advantage Boardroom’, which aired last night on national broadcaster, EMTV. But a lack of protection against cheap overseas competition remains a problem.
There is a growing call for greater protection of Papua New Guinea industry to respond to allegedly unfair international competition. A number of manufacturers tell Business Advantage PNG that most countries have used protectionism to foster their domestic industries and it is time for PNG to do the same.
Papua New Guinea’s manufacturers experienced difficult conditions in 2015 and many are concerned that things will get worse before they get better. David James talks to some of the key figures from the sector to find out how they are coping with the tough market conditions.
Economic conditions in Papua New Guinea may be challenging but Michael Kingston, Chief Executive of diversified manufacturer K K Kingston, tells Business Advantage PNG that the company’s diversified operations give it some strategic options. He also says a weaker exchange rate may also open up opportunities.
Difficult economic conditions can be a time for committed companies to expand market share and establish themselves for the long term. Mikael Ruben, Managing Director of paint manufacturer AkzoNobel tells Business Advantage PNG his company sees the need to remain aggressive in Papua New Guinea.
‘One building at a time’: Papua New Guinea’s K K Kingston prepares for next wave after consolidation
For the last 18 months, leading Lae manufacturer K K Kingston has been consolidating and restructuring. CEO Michael Kingston talks to Business Advantage PNG about the company’s strategy, his optimism for the future, and the issues facing businesses in Papua New Guinea.