Kevin McQuillan is a regain contributor to Business Advantage PNG, with over 30 years' experience covering PNG and the Pacific.

‘Prosperity diseases’ the next health challenge for Papua New Guinea

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The next health care challenge for Papua New Guinea authorities are the afflictions of modern society, says Myles Neri, Group Medical Director of International SOS. They include heart disease, stroke and cancer.

Oil Search share sale represents a win for Papua New Guinea, says analyst

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PNG Government-owned company Kumul Petroleum Holdings has sold its 10 per cent stake in Oil Search, with KPH Managing Director Wapu Sonk reportedly saying it lost A$322 million (K812 m) on the sale. However, stockmarket analyst David Lennox says overall the country has benefited from the process.

Increasing global battery demand will drive higher nickel & cobalt prices, predicts Highlands Pacific MD

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As demand for electric cars gather pace, Papua New Guinea’s Ramu mine is perfectly placed to be a big provider of the nickel and cobalt, both essential ingredients for these hi-tech batteries. Craig Lennon, Managing Director of Highlands Pacific told the Business Advantage Papua New Guinea Investment Conference in Sydney that both commodities are hot.

Frabelle continues expansion plans in Papua New Guinea fisheries sector

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An expanded wharf, increased tuna output, boat replacements and a new blast freezer are part of tuna processor Frabelle’s development plans. But reducing costs is also important, as Frabelle’s Melinda Ragudos tells Business Advantage PNG.

Papua New Guinea investment company plans to turn sea water into fresh water, and expand fruit and vegetable markets

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A Papua New Guinea investment company is hoping to build two solar energy projects which will turn sea water into fresh water as well as extend the life of local fresh fruit and vegetables. PBF Agro Business General Manager Jerry Kootz Simon explains to Business Advantage PNG.

Entrepreneur: Annette Sete, fashion designer

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The difficulty in finding authentic Papua New Guinea-made gifts for friends and colleagues overseas prompted Annette Sete to create her own fashion jewellery line. Two years on, she tells Business Advantage PNG her Lavagirl brand is looking to expand overseas.

PNG Forest Products plans fourth hydro power station as it diversifies

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Forestry and timber company PNG Forest Products is expanding its diversification program as it prepares to build a fourth hydro power station. CEO Tony Honey tells Business Advantage PNG that its plan to build timber bridges and decking for export and domestic clients is also starting to get traction.

Entrepreneur: Sydney-based Papua New Guinea coffee roaster seeks better deal for farmers

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A Sydney-based company is looking to provide a ‘better deal’ for Papua New Guinea coffee farmers, and hopes to develop markets in Australia, the US and China. But to do that, says Principal Pana Wiya, he needs a capital backer.

Unitech’s new ‘Uni-City’ development to get underway next year, says Vice-Chancellor

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A new development on the Papua New Guinea University of Technology’s campus in Lae will give PNG’s second city its first shopping mall. Vice-Chancellor Dr Albert Schram tells Business Advantage PNG the plan includes housing, shops, banks and business offices.

Global mining major needed to re-open Bougainville’s Panguna copper mine?

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Funding the re-opening of the Panguna copper mine is a key concern for a newly-formed Joint Committee of landowners, BCL and governments, says Bougainville Governor, John Momis. Independent analysts believe it is likely to come from one of the global mining majors.