The Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) project will create 30,000 new jobs, says government minister Richard Maru.
The Minister for Trade, Industry and Commerce was speaking at the official launching of the PMIZ project this afternoon.
The launching at the project site at Vidar in Madang Province was witnessed by more than 2000 people.
Maru added that he was tempted to move the project to another province after four years of delay.
The delay was a result of court action instigated by landowners in the impacted areas.
"This project is the catalyst for development in Madang," Maru said.
He was referring to spin off benefits for locals, internal revenue collection and social and infrastructure development the project will bring.
Maru said that a new water supply and power station will be built to support the project and also benefit local landowners.