PNG and China to Host Inaugural Business Forum and Trade Expo in October

“This will be the first time our two countries will host the business forum and trade expo after 50 years of bilateral relationship. While we have had PNG – Australia Business Forum for the last 41 years, it is time we have one with China who is our biggest and most important trading partner. We expect this event to rotate between our two countries annually. This initiative is part of our Government’s aggressive push to pursue a stronger and deeper trade and investment relationship with China,” said Minister Maru.

The Ministry and Department of International Trade and Investment will take charge of this forum.

“We will be working very closely with the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy, the private sector, SMEs, and Government agencies to put together this very important business forum that we are sure will attract more foreign direct investments from China. The PNG private sector can also market investment opportunities across all sectors for Chinese capital and expertise to help develop our economy,” said Minister Maru.

He said the details of the forum will be finalized and announced shortly.

“In the meantime, we are looking at 500 delegates from each country – a total of 1,000 delegates. The event will coincide with the Canton Fair, the world’s largest biannual trade show held in Guangzhou. This way our delegates will also attend this important fair that will feature tens of thousands of suppliers and a vast array of global supply chain products,” said Minister Maru.

Meanwhile, the Minister had issued specific instructions to Dr. Clement Waine to lead the arrangements in incorporating a PNG -China Business Council immediately with the help of PNG Ambassador to China, Dr. Thaddeus Kambanei, Beijing Chamber of Commerce, and the sister chambers across China.

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