By GEORGINA MICHAEL
For the first time, Papua New Guinea will host a PNG Business Forum and Trade Expo in China from 21 to 23 October 2026 in Guangzhou.
Minister for International Trade and Investment Hon. Richard Maru announced this in Parliament today, saying it is a major shift after 41 years of holding the forum only in Australia.
“For 41 years PNG has always gone to Australia for the Business Forum and Expo organised by the PNG Australia Business Council,” Mr. Maru said.
“We have never organised such a forum in China, and yet China has been our biggest trading partner for 41 years. So this year, for the first time, PNG will organise the PNG-China Business Forum and Trade Expo in Guangzhou from the 21st to the 23rd of October.”
Mr. Maru said the event will be a government-to-government agreement aimed at showcasing PNG’s culture, services, and business and investment opportunities in China.
He urged all provinces, not just companies, to take part and market themselves.
“Put up your stalls and go and market your products, your services and market your culture and investment opportunities in every province. Not only companies. This time I am going to call on to every Governor,” Mr. Maru said.
The Minister said at a high level, both Governments have agreed to bring 1,000 PNG delegates and 1,000 Chinese delegates.
“It will be the biggest business forum and trade expo of all time. We are going to enter China in a very big way starting this year,”Mr. Maru said.
He added that details on venue costs and participation fees will be announced next week.