Support SME sector, Maru says

 By SHIRLEY MAULUDU

THE country cannot continue to depend on the resource sector for revenue generation, according to Trade, Commerce and Industry Minister Richard Maru.

He said the small to medium enterprise (SME) sector needed greater support from Government to fully develop and support the country’s growing population. 

Maru made the statement during the launching of the SME policy and master plan (2016-2030) last Thursday in Port Moresby. 

“The time has come. We cannot always depend on the resource sector,” he said. 

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said investment in the new small to medium enterprise policy and master plan would guide future Government investments into the sector.  “This policy and master plan will guide us,” O’Neill said. 

“It will guide future governments to make sure that they put enough resources into SMEs. 

“Mind you it is not going to be easy. 

“If we are going to double or triple or tenfold the numbers of our participants in the SMEs from 50,000 to 500,000 in 2030, it is not going to be easy. 

“I know many of us live and work in Port Moresby take it for granted. Running a business is not easy. Sacrifices have to be made.” 

The event was attended by heads of foreign missions, MPs, leaders in the public and private sectors, contributors of the SME policy and master plan and SME owners.