Prime Minister, James Marape has landed in Hong Kong to officiate at the inaugural Papua New Guinea – Asia Investment Conference today.

Marape departed Port Moresby yesterday morning with the hope to gain enhanced access to the Asian markets for Papua New Guinean businesses and industries.

Before flying off, he said PNG wants to elevate from being an exporter of raw products to becoming an exporter of finished products.

“This is the aim of the PNG-Asia Investment Conference, which will include a number of side meetings,” said Marape.

Papua New Guinea is interested in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, petroleum, mining, and tourism sectors.

Marape said the government would be inviting local businesses, especially those in manufacturing, to participate in the conference and make partnerships with family and corporate businesses in Asia.

Anthony Smare, President of the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Mines and Petroleum said the conference is extremely important to unlock and create opportunities needed to grow the country.

“Creating jobs is a critical challenge for both government and those in other areas, increased investments mean more employment for everyone,” Smare said.

Prime Minister James Marape added that conversations would also be had on climate change and the conservation of Papua New Guinea’s forest for the Carbon trading market, where the government has introduced a policy to to conserve 30 percent of forests and to replant trees where timber has been harvested.

He assured carbon-conscious investors that PNG is a good place for them to do business because they can offset their carbon footprint by assisting PNG protect its forests.

Related: https://insidepng.com/marape-continues-international-travels/