Australian High Commission
Papua New Guinea

MR 071030 Trade mission

MEDIA RELEASE

30 October 2007

For immediate release

Australian resource companies seek PNG trade partners

 

A delegation of 13 senior business people from Australia is in PNG this week to meet potential business partners in the booming mining and petroleum industries, as part of the 2007 Papua New Guinea Resources Mission.

The delegation includes representatives from a variety of Australian companies providing services ranging from equipment hire to development research.

The mission has been organised by the Australian Government’s Trade Commission, Austrade. It has been timed to coincide with the 2007 Chamber Seminar Series organised by the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum.

During their stay the visitors will meet with industry representatives and get first hand information on key developments in the resource sector in PNG.

Austrade’s Senior Trade Commissioner, John Brand, said: “The business relationship between Australia and PNG is already strong but the Australian Government, through Austrade, is always looking for ways to build on it.

"The mission is an opportunity for Australian investors to get updates on exploration activities, projects under development, and existing operations.”

Mr Brand said business partnerships between Australian and PNG companies delivered benefits to both countries.

He added: “There is certainly plenty of scope for Australian companies to engage in supply partnerships with PNG companies in the mining and petroleum industries.

"There have been significant increases in mining licences over recent years, as well as new developments and operational expansions. Similarly there are new gas developments under consideration in the petroleum sector, including LNG plants. All of which are providing a positive outlook for the sector.”

The resources mission runs from 29 October to 3 November. The 2007 Chamber Seminar Series includes a number of seminars led by senior figures in the mining and petroleum industries as well as a trade fair.

 

Media Inquiries: Raymond Palangat, Public Diplomacy Officer, T: 325 9333 ext 454