Learn from Fiji: CPL founder

By PETER ESILA

A LONG-time Papua New Guinea long-time businessman says public utilities must support the growth of business in the country.
City Pharmacy Ltd Group founder Sir Mahesh Patel said issues like power and water supply as well as security were a constant cost for businesses. Sir Mahesh said this on the eve of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation which starts today.
He said PNG could learn so much from Fiji.
“I have been advocating over the years to a lot of people to explore many small-scale manufacturing ideas being done in Fiji,” he said.
“The issue we have in PNG is the cost of utilities and security makes it harder for businesses.
“Manufacturing ideas we can learn from Fiji include soaps and detergents, juices, peanut butter, snacks, spices, jams, coconut oil and skincare products, plastic and paper products, building materials and tomato sauce.”
Sir Mahesh said tourism was Fiji’s main economic earner.
“There is so much to learn from Fiji on matters of tourism, at which they are world leaders, again in PNG, our costs of travel, accommodation, infrastructure make it prohibitive,” he added.
“But in saying all that, it is important to keep strong ties and leverage off the learnings from each others’ strengths.”
With over 35 years of trading in PNG, Sir Mahesh has established one of PNG’s leading retail groups, with brands, Stop and Shop, City Pharmacy, Hardware Haus, Bon Café, Fresh Express, City Pharmacy Medical and Lab Supplies, Jack’s of PNG, and Prouds (PNG).