PNG Made Expo begins in Port Moresby

By MALUM NALU

A two-day PNG Made Expo, being run in conjunction with the Papua New Guinea Advantage 2012 investment conference, began at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby yesterday.

It is organised by the Manufacturers’ Council and conference organisers and features leading PNG manufacturers such as SP Brewery, KK Kingston, Paradise Spices, RD Tuna Canners and Hugo Canning.

Stephanie Bawo (left) of Air Niugini at the RD Tuna Canners stall with Roger Galow (centre) and Ken Namasu.-Nationalpic by MALUM NALU

Council chairman Murray Woo, when opening the expo yesterday, said manufacturing in PNG was an integral part of the economy and would always be so.

“Now is the time we should take advantage of the opportunity of this period of exceptional growth to support and assist the growing manufacturing sector, including downstream processing and other value-adding industries, as they have and will continue to contribute to the fabric of PNG,” he said.

“Local manufacturers supply and distribute nationwide and some successfully export to international markets.

“Despite adverse operating conditions and lack of political support, our members have continued to increase their growth and investment.

“PNG must now take strong steps towards improving the infrastructure and grow our manufacturing and value-adding industries.”

Woo said the manufacturing sector employed more than 25% of the formal workforce in PNG in agriculture, timber and fisheries, among others.

“For too long, we have exported timber, fisheries and agriculture products with little or no added value,” he said.

“The council will soon roll out another PNG Made media campaign with support from our members to continue to promote this brand and what it stands for.

“Standard of goods manufactured here in PNG surpasses many cheap, imported goods.

“The recognition of the PNG Made brand hopes to bring pride and loyalty to our loyal consumers to choose products made by firms who invested in PNG, that are creating jobs and livelihoods for our people.”