What’s around the corner for the Pacific economy?

Welcome,

The Pacific’s increasing integration with Asia, elections in Fiji and more leadership from Papua New Guinea are just some of the factors likely to shape the region over the coming year, according to the region’s three top bankers. In exclusive interviews with all three, Business Advantage PNG canvasses their thoughts on the year ahead.

In brief: First LNG shipment on board ship this week and other business stories

Welcome,

First LNG cargo loaded this week, O’Neill announces inquiry into asset sales by PNGSDP, and more room for mobile phone operators, says NICTA. Your weekly digest of the week’s top business stories.

In brief: Emergency declared in Porgera over illegal mining and other business stories

Welcome,

A state of emergency declared in Porgera over illegal mining, O’Neill promises to cancel illegal forestry leases and second LNG train about to begin production. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Kina Finance launches first non-bank EFTPOS card

Welcome,

Kina Group has launched Papua New Guinea’s first non-bank EFTPOS cash card.

In brief: O’Neill defends loan, call to boost police/military, Abbott in PNG

Welcome,

O’Neill defends loan to buy into Oil Search, economy vulnerable unless security boosted, Manus Detention Centre focus of Abbott/O’Neill talks. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Solomons’ banks close foreign logging company accounts

Welcome,

Commercial banks in the Solomon Islands have closed down several logging company bank accounts, in a move that will make it almost impossible for those companies to receive export proceeds.

BSP’s rural banking opens up market access

Welcome,

Christine Iauve, a vegetable farmer from Magautou village, used to keep her hard-earned cash in a safe. Now she, and hundreds of others in rural and remote areas, are getting access to banking services, and setting ambitious goals.

Memoir: Exporting along the Kokoda Trail

Welcome,

Three years ago, ‘Airport Economist’ Tim Harcourt came to Papua New Guinea to see how it was coping after the global financial crisis. In this excerpt from his forthcoming book, Trading Places – The Airport Economist’s Guide to International Business, he reflects on what he found.

Don’t panic: agricultural markets will weather the global storm

Welcome,

Commodities prices have been sold off heavily over the past week on worries that the global economy will slow. What does this mean for Papua New Guinea’s agricultural producers?

People moves: Bemobile, Westpac, Cue Energy Resources, InterOil

Welcome,

Major changes at Bemobile as Vodafone steps in to take over, while Westpac MD and InterOil CEO announce departures.