PNG could be a major exporter with modern cold chain developments within the country.
According to Oxford Business Group CEO, Andrew Jeffreys, PNG could be a leading exporter with modern cold chain infrastructure developed.
“With refrigeration, packaging, processing in place, PNG could become a major exporter of seafood, spices and fruits to the rest of the fast-growing Asian region,” said Jeffreys.
He stated that PNG cannot compete with Asian manufacturing power houses such as China, Vietnam and Thailand.
The country ought to focus on developing local capacity to cater for local demand in food, construction and timber related consumer and industrial products, he advised.
“Today, manufacturing sector remains small with PNG running a trade deficit with other countries if you strip out energy exports.”
“This poses a financial as well as a supply risk. In particular, we wish to highlight opportunities in modern cold chain development for agriculture,” Jeffreys added.