AS PNG delegates pitching up for the World Expo in Osaka, Japan, their participation at the event is expected to draw a positive feedback and boost the economy space for Papua New Guinea.
The Expo, scheduled to be held from April 13 to October 13, 2025, is expected to be a biggest opportunity in showcasing what PNG is capable of in terms of business, trade and investment activities.
Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru has confirmed yesterday that, the first team of delegates comprised of the Commissioner General of Section PNG, Ambassador Gabriel Dusava and his core team members will be flying out to Japan in the weekend as they prepare toward the Expo.
Maru said they are looking forward to having an agreement signed on comprehensive economic partnership with Japan, which he believes there lies future market and can open doors of opportunities to market coffee, gold and gas.
“We have been friends for 50 years in many of these areas, and we need to anchor the relationship,” he said.
“We need to step up with our game and really make a good go of our opportunity now provided by the expo,” said Minister Maru.
The Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) and the Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) will be the key agencies that will play a dynamic role to ensure they get what they after for at the Osaka World Expo while they participate in the six months period.
“The Expo Team in Osaka will operate under clear policy goals and objectives set out by respective government agencies and stakeholders,” Minister Maru said.
“Their work will focus on ensuring PNG’s maximum visibility and impact on a global scale,” he added.
“For the past eight months, the Expo Secretariat has done everything possible to prepare the country for this participation.
“The next phase is now in the hands of our key stakeholders—the private sector, government departments, and provincial administrations—who must continue to prepare themselves and work closely with the Section PNG Desk Officer at the National Trade Office to facilitate their involvement in Expo-related conferences and business events.”
Minister Maru also announced that they have identified and recognized three provinces- Central, Western Highlands, and East New Britain provinces that will also be joining them at the World Expo in Osaka’s PNG-Japan Trade and Investment Conference in July.
These three provinces are known for their cultural events, SME Corporation and Tourism including other opportunities that can be promoted and forged partnership at the World expo to engage in economic relationship.
“As Minster responsible for the 2025 Osaka World Expo, I am committed and determined to help these three provinces that have made conscious decisions to attend the Expo activities and seek Japanese partnerships in the areas that they have identified.
“PNG’s presence at this Expo is not just about participation; it is about making our mark on the global stage and to market our country as an attractive tourism and investment destination, and pronounce the endless opportunities in business, pleasure and human engagement and collaboration for research, studies and other aspects,” said Minister Maru.