The Chairman and founder of telecommunications company Digicel, Denis O’Brien, describes Papua New Guinea as a vibrant country that is a ‘fantastic location’ for investors. But he says the physical terrain also made it his company’s most challenging market.
Offshore investment by Papua New Guinea companies remains comparatively small, but there are opportunities. One banking executive suggests it as an important way local financial institutions can diversify.
Neighbouring Solomon Islands has strong business ties with Papua New Guinea. Jay Bartlett, Chairman of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry, tells Business Advantage PNG that the country has some positive prospects, especially with its new undersea telecommunications cable.
Tess Newton Cain, Anna Powles and Jose Sousa-Santos explain that China is increasing its aid and influence in the Pacific. They say a disciplined approach to co-operation is needed.
Establishing a business on a Papua New Guinea island is a difficult challenge. But Robert Critchley, owner of cocoa and copra supplier, Sankamap Exports, describes how it can be done.
Papua Mining has been drilling in Papua New Guinea for six years and has some exciting prospects, according to Chief Executive David Price. He says the company is looking to grow aggressively—possibly in partnership with a larger player.
Oil and gas prices are rising but cocoa and silver are weaker. Business Advantage PNG’s monthly review of Papua New Guinea commodities and financial markets.
The proposed Wafi Golpu mine will contribute to the diversification of Papua New Guinea’s economy, according to Craig Jones, Executive General Manager Wafi Golpu at Newcrest Mining. He told the Australia Papua New Guinea Business Forum in Brisbane that, if the project gets the go-ahead, it will help local agriculture.
The Managing Director of Kumul Petroleum Holdings (KPH), Wapu Sonk, believes a ‘step change’ is needed in the electrification of Papua New Guinea. He argues that some gas production should be reserved for domestic production.
Papua New Guinea offers some unique tourism options, according to Bob Bates, owner of Trans Niugini Tours. But he says it has some distinct challenges as well.