Forex issue remains a battle for businesses, says CEO

By PETER ESILA
THE foreign exchange issue remains a battle in Papua New Guinea for businesses such as Brian Bell Group, chief executive officer Cameron Mackellar says.
He said the company had experienced this issue for the last eight years.
“Businesses like ours which import significant volumes of product must line up at the bank each and every week with our hand out just to receive an allocation of foreign currency in order to pay our suppliers,” Mackellar said.
“It has been a problem for years and will likely be a problem for years to come as so little is being done to improve it.”
He said all businesses including Brian Bell hoped for a bright future for PNG through less talk and more action.
“PNG’s economy is flat at best or contracting right now, although we and select others are bucking that trend which is great to see,” Mackellar said.
“Little by way of new or major projects are underway in Papua New Guinea.
“The country’s debt continues to grow, new taxes are being introduced and we are but months off from a national election.
“Usually in election years, very little happens other than politicking.
“Let’s hope for the sake of PNG that’s not the case and good decisions from Government are forthcoming and soon to stimulate the economy.”