THE Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation have welcomed Papua New Guinea’s decision to remove the import duty under the Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement.  The duty reduction will support Fiji businesses in the further development of trade in the region.
FCEF president Mark Mathews said this is an important development for Fiji businesses and would benefit the PNG and Fiji economy.  Fiji businesses that have established trade arrangements with PNG will now benefit from the opportunity for further development.
Mathews said for other businesses, this also presented an opportunity to develop trade in the largest market in the Pacific region.  Fiji’s trade with PNG could soon take a new turn following the removal of products listed on PNG’s negative list.
Attorney-General and Minister for Trade Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the Bainimarama government had been calling on all member nations to fully implement the Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement.

“We are pleased that PNG has heeded our call as this will bring tangible benefits to Fijian exporters and will create jobs in Fiji,” he said.

“It will also benefit Papua New Guineans who will be able to enjoy quality Fijian products at competitive prices.”

He said it was a positive move by PNG which showed the true spirit of MSG and signalled to other Pacific Islands the commitment MSG countries had towards regional trade and economic integration.