Maru: Big prospects in SI

 By GYNNIE KERO

PAPUA New Guinea’s private sector and the small-to- medium enterprises (SMEs) must target the investment opportunities in the Solomon Islands (SI), Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru says.

He said this when presenting a cheque for K250,000 to subsidise the cost of travelling and hosting the trade fair in SI.

More than 70 business delegates representing 53 local companies from various industries will leave this week for the trade mission. 

Maru said: “Private sector and SMEs must know that the government is behind the Solomon Islands trade fair and has thrown its support by giving K250,000. 

“The PNG SMEs and private sector must target investment opportunities in the Solomon Islands as they have the full support and backing of the government.

“Let us (PNG) go there as big brother to explore their market, expand our investment opportunities and help grow their market.”

He acknowledged the support and sponsorships from the Solomon’s and PNG governments, Farmset Ltd, BSP, SP Brewery and the British American Tobacco (BAT). 

Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) managing director Ivan Pomaleu told the delegates last Friday that the SI Chamber of Commerce and Industry has also received a show of interest from its network for the event.

He said: “Businesses from Solomon Islands have expressed interest in PNG companies in a number of sectors.

“SI businesses want to tie up with companies who are in field of domestic air and sea transport services, legal, education, auditing and accounting services, building and civil works and engineering, tourism, information and communication technology (ICT) services, food and beverages, manufacturing and retail sector, business consultancies, heavy duty industries, fisheries, handicrafts, tabu shell trade and petroleum.

The business forum and the trade exhibit will begin on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Maru sternly warned the delegates to behave as professional business entrepreneurs while representing the country in SI.

“I do not want drunkards … you have to be in your best behaviour … you will represent your companies and PNG.

“Anyone who misbehaves will never be on any other trade mission as long as I am the minister”, he added.