Industry diversification a must, say ADB and Manufacturers Council

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The economic and financial stresses being experienced in the PNG economy are in part due to the narrowness of the industry base, according to a report by the Asian Development Bank. There is a compelling argument for industry diversification; Chey Scovell of the Manufacturers Council says the focus should be on creating stable employment.

In brief: New 30-day visa a boost for Papua New Guinea tourism, and other business stories

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Australians can now obtain a 30-day visa on arrival, Botten says Elk-Antelope could need at least two new LNG trains, and Treasurer confident cash flow enough for health, education and infrastructure spending. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Papua New Guinea government facing ‘difficult’ cash flow challenge says ADB

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The Papua New Guinea government faces challenges in managing its cash flow, according to Yurendra Basnett, PNG Country Economist for the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The ADB’s Outlook 2016 paper on the Asian region says PNG’s debt servicing costs are likely to rise. ‘Cash-flow management is growing more difficult for the government as commercial banks reach their […]

In brief: PanAust applies for Frieda River licence, new US-Pacific fishing deal and claims Papua New Guinea economy sound

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PanAust applies for Frieda River mining licence, new deal governing American access to the region’s tuna fishing and Chief Secretary to Government says Papua New Guinea’s economic fundamentals sound. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Higher government spending could reduce Papua New Guinea’s debt burden, says economist Satish Chand

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Papua New Guinea’s debt levels relative to the size of its economy could actually go down if the government increased spending, according to Satish Chand, Professor of Finance in the School of Business at the University of New South Wales. Mounting an argument that goes against conventional wisdom, he contends that as long as the government investment is well managed and receives a strong return, the long term benefits will outweigh the short term risks.

In brief: Inflation expected to be 6 per cent, UNDP claims ‘timely’ expenditure reporting and POMSoX trading down 43 per cent

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In brief: Inflation expected to hit 6 per cent, UNDP claims ‘timely’ expenditure reporting and POMSoX trading down 43 per cent

Consumer trust the key to boosting mobile banking in the Pacific

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The key to boosting the use of mobile phone banking services in the Pacific is ‘trust’ in the system, particularly as mobile phone providers themselves begin providing financial services, according to a new report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

In brief: Asian Development Bank downgrades Papua New Guinea’s growth outlook, and other business stories

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Papua New Guinea’s growth forecast downgraded by Asian Development Bank, Bank of PNG says growth this year will partly be driven by non-mineral sector activity, plus claims PNG’s global corruption rating will depend on government commitment to accountability. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.

Papua New Guinea lenders welcome registry of personal assets

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The creation of a registry of personal assets to be used as loan security will boost the small business sector, according to Moses Liu, the Managing Director of the National Development Bank.

In brief: Ok Tedi mine may resume operations in March, and other business stories

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The Ok Tedi mine expected to start again in March, the US formally withdraws from fishing treaty, and unions call on government to honour superannuation commitments. Your weekly digest of the latest business news.