A delegation of 20 members from Fiji, headed by Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, is set to undertake a trade and investment mission to Papua New Guinea (PNG) next week. This initiative, facilitated by Investment Fiji along with the Ministry of Trade, aims to enhance economic relationships and explore new business opportunities between the two nations.
Kamikamica highlighted the mission’s potential, noting it as a significant opportunity for Fiji to access the vibrant PNG market. The recent establishment of Fiji’s High Commission in PNG and the revival of the Fiji-PNG Business Council demonstrate a renewed commitment to bolstering the Fiji-PNG partnership. The delegation will include government officials, business leaders, and representatives from private sector organizations, with activities planned such as business forums and networking events in Port Moresby.
This four-day mission from March 24 to March 27 will target key sectors including agriculture, tourism, information communication technology (ICT), and manufacturing. The goal is to secure around 20 viable investment and trade opportunities that could collectively reach a value of FJ$100 million. Additionally, discussions will include the potential for dual listings of selected companies on both the Fiji South Pacific Stock Exchange and the PNG Stock Exchange.
Investment Fiji’s Chief Executive Kamal Chetty emphasized that the mission would not only enhance Fiji’s presence in PNG but also generate favorable media coverage of Fiji’s investment climate and tourism prospects. Chetty remarked, “We recognize the vast opportunities that exist in PNG, and we are committed to exploring avenues for further cooperation.”
This mission aims to develop a framework for ongoing bilateral initiatives, fostering regular business forums and information sharing. As Fiji and PNG continue to deepen their economic ties, this endeavor is anticipated to create prosperous outcomes for both countries in the future, facilitating greater collaboration and economic growth.
The backdrop of this mission is marked by recent comments from PNG’s acting high commissioner to Fiji, Bill Olmi, who has raised concerns over the trade relationship imbalance, indicating a strong need for improved cooperation. The revival of the Fiji-PNG Business Council has been recognized as a cornerstone in elevating economic collaboration, emphasizing the shared potential for both nations to improve their trade relations.
Overall, this upcoming mission is a promising step towards fortifying the ties between Fiji and PNG, potentially leading to mutual economic growth and enhanced trade relationships that can benefit both nations.
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