18 potential economic zones identified

INTERNATIONAL Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru says the department has so far identified 18 potential economic zones in the country.
It is now waiting for funding from the Treasury ministry.
He was replying to a question in Parliament by Chimbu Governor Noah Kool if there were investors who would invest in agriculture in the Karamui district as an economic zone.
Maru said Karamui distict had been identified as one of the 18 areas.
Maru said there was no team of investors yet but the department would undertake a national study to identify potential economic zones.
“We are engaging the Japanese Development Institute with local experts to undertake the study to identify and confirm which provinces and districts have a high potential for special economic zones and where there is potential for major economic activity,” he said.
“However, the issue of road access, state land and attracting investors will all be assessed in the study so as to unlock the potential of the area.”
He also said they would examine the prospect of the limestone mine in Chuave.
“The Government will spend an estimated K10 million on the project,” he said.