Asia Economy

In a fast-changing political landscape, 2018 will be a key year for President Joko Widodo to take advantage of his high popularity ratings, majority in Parliament and consolidated Cabinet to accelerate the implementation of his administration’s strategic goals, which include infrastructure development, reducing bureaucracy and increasing transparency. In terms of greater regional involvement,...

This chapter contains a list of recommended hotels located around the country, contact information for government bodies and foreign embassies and the listings of various businesses and organisations. It also offers travel tips and cultural facts for visitors.

Despite some weak headline numbers, Papua New Guinea’s economy is set to see a recovery in 2017. Depreciation of the kina and the shortage of US dollars have slowed imports and led to pockets of strength. Robust activity at the small and medium-sized enterprise level and in the informal sector is ongoing, while key statistics, such as the current account, are indicating a return to balance....

The international position of Papua New Guinea has improved in recent years as the country continues to benefit from a number of positive trends. A stabilisation in commodity prices, strong output from the country’s major projects and an end to the El Niño drought have brought major trade indicators back into line. A lack of US dollars and the weak kina have helped as well by boosting exports...

With an election in 2017, the year has proven be a challenging one in Papua New Guinea. The economic downturn following the completion of the PNG liquefied natural gas project has resulted in criticism of the current government, amid accusations of mismanagement. Despite this, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill secured a fourth term, winning 78% of the votes cast in his district. Boosting social and...