Ambassador Fradin expressed gratitude towards their organizing partners; the Tourism Promotion Authority, National Trade Office, and the PNGF-Europe Business Council, for their invaluable support and cooperation in preparing the conference and related events.
The UE aims to strengthen partnerships with PNG and other Pacific countries by enhancing trade and investment opportunities.
“The EU-Pacific (Interim) Economic Partnership Agreement, a vital instrument that has boosted trade and facilitated investments, lies at the core of this progress. Our objective is to deepen and broaden the current EPA,” says Ambassador Fradin.
The EU-funded conference seeks to promote collaboration between the EU and Pacific Island Countries, whether they are part of the EPA or not.
Over 500 participants from Europe, PNG, and various Pacific EPA member countries will attend the conference, which will also be livestreamed to include potential European investors.
This highlights the positive growth of both the business and technology sectors in PNG.
The EU is a major importer of PNG’s agricultural products, particularly premium items. Under the EP, all PNG products are granted duty-free, quota-free access to the EU market, including all tuna, even if caught by non-PNG vessels and processed within PNG.
The EU’s support is primarily focused on significant commodities such as cocoa, fisheries, vanilla, and kava. Additionally, since 2016, the EU has committed EUR 100 million (over 300 m) to support trade-related stakeholders and agriculture in key commodities, and EUR 37 million (over K100 m) at the regional level under the Pacific Regional and Integration Support Programme.
Ambassador Fradin emphasized that business and trade rely on networking, marketing, interaction, and expertise. Thus, this conference aims to strengthen business connections, explore new opportunities, and promote sustainable development through trade and investment.
Conference participants will evaluate innovative strategies that drive progress while preserving the region’s natural resources and cultural heritage.
Experts and industry leaders will share insights on best practices, challenges, and opportunities in the EU-Pacific economic landscape, fostering meaningful discussions and facilitating valuable cross-border connections.
A business fair will take place at the conference venue, allowing national and regional Small & Medium Enterprises to showcase their businesses and participate in networking activities.
“I am confident that this conference will play a pivotal role in establishing lasting connections and attracting European businesses to invest in PNG and the broader Pacific region. It will also encourage local businesses to access the EU market,” concluded Ambassador Fradin.
