Papua New Guinea is a ‘low risk’ country for foreign investors, according to John Leahy, President of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Commerce and Industry. But he tells Business Advantage PNG that it is important to prepare thoroughly in order to be a successful investor.
A survey of human resources in Papua New Guinea has found that the country could make big gains by using its people better. But there are significant skill shortages, especially in management and the professions.
Forestry and timber company PNG Forest Products is expanding its diversification program as it prepares to build a fourth hydro power station. CEO Tony Honey tells Business Advantage PNG that its plan to build timber bridges and decking for export and domestic clients is also starting to get traction.
The Chief Executive and Founder of real estate portal Hausples, Matthew Care, explains to Business Advantage PNG that the company is set to take advantage of higher rates of internet usage in Papua New Guinea. He expects rates of urbanisation to increase.
A Sydney-based company is looking to provide a ‘better deal’ for Papua New Guinea coffee farmers, and hopes to develop markets in Australia, the US and China. But to do that, says Principal Pana Wiya, he needs a capital backer.
The European Investment Bank has received a mandate from the European Union to invest in infrastructure projects in the Pacific, including in Papua New Guinea. Head of the EIB’s Pacific Regional Office, Adam Bruun explains to Business Advantage PNG some of the priorities and operational practices of the Bank.
While it is adapting to increased competition and quieter market conditions at home, PNG’s largest finance company, Credit Corporation, is not standing still. Chief Executive Tor Bowen tells Business Advantage PNG that the company will open its first South East Asian operation, in neighbouring Timor Leste.
A new development on the Papua New Guinea University of Technology’s campus in Lae will give PNG’s second city its first shopping mall. Vice-Chancellor Dr Albert Schram tells Business Advantage PNG the plan includes housing, shops, banks and business offices.
Kennedy Wemin, the Chief Executive of Melanesian Trustee Services limited (MTSL), Trustee and Interim Manager of Papua New Guinea’s unit trust fund, Pacific Balanced Fund (PBF) tells Business Advantage PNG that the difficult economic conditions create opportunities as well as challenges. He outlines some of the fund’s future options.
Papua New Guinea’s foreign exchange problems are a symptom of an overly narrow industry base, according to a new report by the Business Council of PNG. It says the new government also needs to look at widening the tax base and improving infrastructure.