Opinion: Seven key challenges facing Papua New Guinea … and how to tackle them (part 2)

Welcome,

In the first article in this two-part series, Jenny Hayward-Jones outlined seven key issues that confront Papua New Guinea’s emerging leaders. In this second part, she identifies the long-term trends that will challenge PNG and four areas of reform that would—if focused on—yield the greatest gains for the country.

Surging Japanese trade and Chinese investment to integrate Papua New Guinea into Asian region

Welcome,

Papua New Guinea’s first LNG project has transformed the country’s exporting landscape, with Japan overtaking Australia as its number one trading partner. China will also become a major source of funds, taking over from Australia and global lending agencies. But don’t expect the broader bilateral relationships to change quickly.

Review: Dorney’s call for Australia to revive engagement with Papua New Guinea

Welcome,

A new paper by experienced Pacific journalist Sean Dorney argues passionately for a re-think of Australia’s relationship with Papua New Guinea. As its title suggests, The Embarrassed Colonialist paints a portrait of a country that hasn’t quite worked out how to engage with his nearest neighbour.

Analysis: lingering questions for 2016 Papua New Guinea budget, APEC and public debt

Welcome,

The 2016 Budget was one of emergency for PNG. Adjusting to a 20% collapse in revenue caused by plummeting commodity prices and an economic slow-down, the government has implemented harsh expenditure cuts.The Lowy Institute’s Jonathan Pryke examines the budgetary impact of holding the APEC summit in Port Moresby in 2018.

Reaction to Papua New Guinea’s 2016 Budget: necessary cuts but still some challenges, say experts

Welcome,

The Papua New Guinea Government has made tough decisions in its 2016 Budget to avoid a cash and macroeconomic crisis. Business Advantage PNG talks to some experts on how the budget measured up to expectations, and what is still needed.

Second mine suspension in Papua New Guinea highlights drought impact

Welcome,

The suspension of a second mine in Papua New Guinea has highlighted the impact of the El Nino drought, which is also severely affecting the agriculture industry. Just how long the drought continues for will determine the long-term effects, according to Paul Barker, the Executive Director of the Institute of National Affairs.

Opinion: How Papua New Guinea can lessen the impact of falling energy prices

Welcome,

Progress in fostering economic and social development is threatened by the recent drop in global energy prices. Paul Barker provides practical ways to minimise the impact of the downturn.

In brief: Total to lead Elk-Antelope gas development, and other business stories

Welcome,

Joint venture elects Total as operator, PNG DataCo discusses Solomon Islands link, and WCB Resources lifts stake in gold project. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

China and India’s growing business links with Papua New Guinea and the Pacific

Welcome,

Pacific leaders have been the recipients of largesse from India’s Prime Minister and China’s President, who met in Fiji last week. Meanwhile, a new ANZ report details the increasingly close links between China’s aid and its investment in the Pacific.

Australia’s relations with Papua New Guinea and the Pacific under the Abbott Government

Welcome,

There’s a new Liberal-National Coalition government in Canberra, led by Tony Abbott. Jenny Hayward-Jones considers the implications for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.