Talks on trade policy

 By PISAI GUMAR
THE recent Mamose governors’ conference in Lae plans to develop a trade policy package to conduct businesses with Jayapura in Indonesia.
It was one of the topics discussed last week in Lae.
The congress also suggested a Mamose governors’ soccer tournament to allow youths to participate in Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare’s Cup.
Congress chairman and Madang Governor Jim Kas tabled the trade idea to promote PNG-made goods after an invitation was received from Jayapura to participate in a trade fair there in October.
Morobe Governor Kelly Naru assured that the regional think-tanks formulated a trade policy framework for its sustenance.
“Under the Government’s look-north policy, regional think-tanks develop a policy package that captures trade, transport infrastructure development and border security to enhance long term regional business activities,” Naru said.
Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare said the swift flow of businesses in the region and Jayapura required air, sea and road infrastructure to enhance mobility.
Sandaun deputy governor John Nos agreed with Kas, Naru and Sir Michael to connect the road between Bogia-Angoram and Wewak to Vanimo.
Civil engineers from government agencies and institutions especially the University of Technology, PNGDF Engineering Battalion and Works will be engaged to conduct feasibility studies.
Sir Michael suggested that the four provincial governments (Morobe, Madang, East and West Sepik) support the five Morobe districts which initiated the Morobe Coast Shipping Services by becoming shareholders.
“We needed to support MCSS to ensure they sell shares to the four provincial governments and enhance shipping activity, and ensure MCSS increases its fleets and extend services to Madang, Wewak, Sandaun and hopefully Jayapura,” Sir Michael said. The five districts which own MCSS include Tewae-Siassi, Kabwum, Finschhafen, Nawaeb and Huon Gulf.