Papua New Guinea’s acting high commissioner to Fiji, Bill Olmi, raised concerns regarding the trade relationship between Fiji and PNG, indicating an imbalance that is notably reflected in the limited presence of PNG products in Fijian supermarkets. His comments came during the recent revival of the Fiji & PNG Business Council event held in Suva, where he highlighted the need for improvements in trade relations between the two nations.
The acting high commissioner emphasized that the reinstatement of the Fiji-PNG Business Council is a critical step towards enhancing economic collaboration, not only between Fiji and PNG but also with other Pacific Island nations. Olmi stated that this platform will facilitate dialogue and cooperation, allowing business communities from both countries to collaborate, share ideas, and address economic challenges.
Investment Fiji also announced plans to lead a business delegation from Fiji to Papua New Guinea, aimed at exploring investment and trade opportunities, although the specific date for this delegation has not yet been set. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, noted during the council’s Annual General Meeting that this revival represents tremendous potential, especially in sectors like tourism where both countries can significantly benefit.
Kamikamica believes that there are abundant opportunities to harness through improved trade relations. The deputy prime minister expressed optimism about the future of economic cooperation, emphasizing the importance of working together to create mutual benefits.
The revitalization of the Fiji-PNG Business Council signals a promising development in regional economic collaboration and could pave the way for generating new investments and enhancing trade relationships. In a landscape where nations are increasingly looking to strengthen ties, Fiji and PNG’s renewed engagement can inspire greater cooperation not just on an economic front but in other essential sectors as well.
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