Analyse of the sector 30/11/2010
Papua New Guinea (PNG) attracts more businesses

Due to its vast resource base, PNG remains attractive to mining and resource companies from Australia and South Africa. PNG has the world’s largest supply of low-grade copper; other deposits include gold, chromites, oil and natural gas. In the review period, Harmony Gold from South Africa acquired two new projects in PNG, and the Australian company Marengo began drilling for diamonds supporting business arrivals.

 

Australia subsidises flights to Kokoda

 

The Kokoda Trail is an increasingly popular site in PNG. It is a famous World War II site where Australia fought Japan and 600 Australians lost their lives in the battle. In 2008, Australians wanted to save the Kokoda Trail from mining ventures. It has become a Mecca for almost 6,000 Australian pilgrims per year that come to pay homage to those soldiers that died there. Under a joint understanding regarding the Kokoda Trail and Owen Stanley Ranges, the Australian government has paid Kina374,000 from July 2009 to Airlines PNG for weekly flights along the airstrips of the Kokoda Trail.

 

Pacific Blue enters PNG routes

 

Pacific Blue, Virgin Blue’s international airline, started operating flights to Port Moresby from Brisbane under a code share agreement in 2008. It strengthened competition between the airlines in 2009 because of increased seat capacity and a greater choice of products, schedules and airfares. The Pacific Blue service commenced in November 2008 using 737-800 jet aircraft.

 

Eco-lodges looking for investment

 

PNG has great potential for eco-tourism as the country has unspoiled land and a diverse culture. In an attempt to develop eco-tourism, the Pacific Asia Travel Association has listed three eco-lodge development projects which have been planned for Madang, Oro Province and Wewak.

 

The master plan sets out clear objectives

 

The PNG Tourism Promotion Authority has reviewed the travel and tourism industry in the country and developed a 10-year master plan named the National Tourism Master Plan 2007-2017 (NTMP). The plan aims to “Grow PNG tourism as a sustainable industry”. The plan has outlined five development objectives in Marketing and Promotion; Investment Incentives and Product Development; Transport and Infrastructure; HR Development; and Institution and Industry Partnership.