The Cairns Chamber of Commerce has opened a branch office in Papua New Guinea’s capital city, Port Moresby.

The move comes as a number businesses from the far north Queensland city secure large contracts in PNG following recent business delegations lead by the chamber.

The office is located in the Department of Agriculture and Livestock building in Konedobu.

‘We will be carrying out services on behalf of our members such as business matching, procurement services, Government engagement, research, marketing support, meeting arrangements, delegation logistics and planning and investment liaison,’ said the chamber’s Chief Executive Officer, CEO Deb Hancock.

‘We are encouraging our members to “look north” (to PNG and the Asia Pacific) for business opportunity, and we are doing everything we can to assist our members while in-country by providing them with the practical support needed when attempting to diversify into new markets and compete on a global basis.

‘Having a permanent presence (and investment) in a foreign country demonstrates real “skin in the game”; that you are a serious contender in that market; and that you are there for the long haul.’