Fijian businesses are being encouraged to seize the opportunities offered by Papua New Guinea’s rich resources and large population, estimated at approximately 12.5 million. Pradeep Lal, the Regional CEO of Vodafone, emphasized this message during the Fiji-PNG Business Mission 2025 in Port Moresby, aiming to highlight the potential for investment in PNG.
Lal stressed the importance of understanding the market—its political, social, and economic landscape—as well as conducting thorough due diligence to evaluate entry costs and risks associated with new ventures. He pointed out that PNG holds significant mining prospects and a growing array of opportunities in sectors like agriculture, dairy, kava, forestry, and fisheries. Notably, PNG’s key exports include mineral fuels and oil, along with various agricultural products such as coffee and spices, presenting viable avenues for Fijian entrepreneurs to tap into.
He also urged Fijian businesses to pursue strategic partnerships with local investors in PNG, suggesting that collaboration could lead to successful ventures benefiting both countries. Sectors needing investment include hospitality, healthcare facilities like medical centers, and education, where Fiji’s skilled workforce could meet the demands.
Past trade missions led by the Fijian Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica have laid a foundation for strengthening economic ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation between Fiji and PNG, showcasing Fiji’s favorable investment climate. The ongoing Business Mission 2025, supported by various agencies, marks a proactive approach to enhancing bilateral trade, improving mutual opportunities, and fostering an environment of growth and collaboration.
This collective effort indicates a promising future for economic partnerships in the Pacific region, with both nations working toward mutual prosperity and sustainable development through shared resources and insights.
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