Fijian enterprises are being urged to take advantage of the vast opportunities presented by Papua New Guinea (PNG), which boasts a rich natural resource base and a substantial population reaching approximately 12.5 million. During the Fiji-PNG Business Mission 2025, held in Port Moresby, Pradeep Lal, the Regional CEO of Vodafone, conveyed the potential for investment in PNG.
Lal highlighted the necessity of comprehending the PNG market, including its political, social, and economic nuances. He emphasized the importance of thorough due diligence in assessing potential entry costs and risks involved in new business ventures. With abundant mining prospects and expanding possibilities across various sectors—including agriculture, dairy, kava, forestry, and fisheries—PNG presents an attractive frontier for Fijian entrepreneurs. The country’s major exports, which encompass mineral fuels, oil, coffee, and spices, further underscore the landscape of viable investment avenues.
In addition, Lal recommended that Fijian businesses seek strategic collaborations with local PNG investors, noting that such partnerships could pave the way for successful enterprises benefiting both nations. There is a notable demand for investment in sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and education, where Fiji’s skilled workforce can play a crucial role in meeting the needs of PNG’s growing economy.
The groundwork for this engagement has been laid by prior trade missions led by Fijian Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica. These efforts have strengthened economic relations and opened doors for new cooperative endeavors between the two countries, showcasing Fiji’s favorable investment climate.
The ongoing Fiji-PNG Business Mission 2025, which enjoys support from multiple agencies, reflects a proactive strategy to boost bilateral trade and foster growth and collaboration. This concerted effort signals a hopeful trajectory for economic partnerships in the Pacific, with both Fiji and PNG aspiring toward shared prosperity and sustainable development through their rich resources and cooperative insights.
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