Centres will boost SMEs, official says

SETTING up more small-medium enterprise (SME) incubation centres will encourage their growth, says Unity Mall director Clark Piokole.
Piokole said there were talks of setting up similar malls in Gerehu, Downtown Port Moresby, 8-Mile and 9-Mile.
The Unity Mall in Waigani has more than 90 SMEs operating.
A supermarket under construction is expected to be opened this year.
“We have plans to roll out more supermarkets in the city and in other provinces too,” Piokole said.
“These supermarkets are owned by Papua New Guineans, so you buy at a supermarket that you own.
“This is to empower our people especially SMEs.
“We are going to expand – a lot of focus should be on fresh produce, fresh meat, vegetables, rice and encourage Papua New Guineans to eat local produce more.”
Piokole said farmers were to consistently supply produce.
“At the same time, we want to encourage other SMEs in terms of clothing or woodwork and other stuff,” he said.
“We believe that we can progress better.”
The Unity Mall houses small businesses owned by Papua New Guineans operating retail and food services.