By JOSHUA ARLO
A handbook to help small business carry out their imports was yesterday launched by Department of Commerce and Industry acting Secretary John Andrias.
The booklet titled “Import procedures – A basic guide for small PNG importers” complements the department’s earlier publication on export procedures.
Both books are intended as alternative sources of information on practical know-how regarding businesses activity of small businessmen and women, community based groups, schools and education institutions for business.
Through these books the department aims to encourage and promote expansion and development of small businesses and local participation in export and import activities.
The booklet launched yesterday intends to provide basic information from the practical point of view to guide or assist small people interested in entering small businesses of importing goods and services from sellers abroad.
Mr Andrias yesterday said they are an integral part of various responsibilities and duties in promoting and facilitating business development in PNG.
“Through information and communications network, we can together instill in the minds of our people necessary information to empower them to actively participate in the economic recovery and development process,” Mr Andrias said.
He said that in little or big ways, small people can be encouraged to get involved in small to medium businesses as these business sectors are contributing towards the growth and development of the economy.
He said while the Government encourages large investments into major commercial and industrial development areas, there is also a need to involve more people in small businesses.
He said that small to medium scale business are major contributing factors for substantial employment creation which increases production and rescues ordinary people from the ‘brinks of poverty, unemployment, law and order problems and other social mishaps.
Mr Andrias said the department of Commerce and Industry stresses growth of small and medium enterprises (SME) and encourages more people to venture into business activities through the provision of basic training, information dissemination and financial arrangements.
He said the booklets are free of charge and any organisation, education institutions or groups interested can make an order from the department.