Photo: Simon Sia and PNG SME Corp Delegates
As the Government has placed more emphasis on Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises in the country, Eastern Highlands Province launched its SME policy over the festive period.
Governor for Eastern Highlands Simon Sia and delegates from the PNG SME corporation launched the SME policy in the provincial capital of Goroka.
Small to Medium Enterprise Corporation Managing Director Petrus Ralda clarified and confirmed that Eastern Highlands Province is the first in the country to have its own SME policy.
He stated that this is in line with the National SME policy framework and congratulated the Eastern Highland Province SME coordination team for implementing the Provincial SME policy.
Mr Ralda further said that the SME Corporation is ready to work with the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government and SME coordination team to provide the necessary support.
The official launch of the policy was well attended by more than 400 SME business owners in the province and also SME owners from the neighbouring Chimbu province who were present to witness and also showcase their various products and services.
The EHP SME Policy is focused and developed upon a product of a hectic provincial consultation and discussions covering a wide range of areas including issues that needed urgent attention.
The provincial SME coordination team stated that the SME movement in the province is growing rapidly, and an increasing number of SMEs are initiating business concepts, especially in agriculture and getting themselves registered through IPA Online Registration.
The launch of the provincial SME policy provided an avenue and opportunity for SME owners to meet, greet and most importantly showcase their products and services as well as network with each other.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Simon Sia, who was a prominent and well-known business figure in the Highlands region before entering politics, challenged all SME owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to set goals for their businesses and work harder towards achieving them.
Governor Sia further urged all Eastern Highlanders to venture more into agricultural business activities to sustain themselves.
The provincial SME policy has set out the foundation for SME growth, entrepreneurship and economic development in the province. Business services will be offered to assist and provide nourishment to small business owners, in rural areas so that it helps small people in bigger business environments.
