The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has imposed a moratorium on new foreign investments in business sectors reserved exclusively for indigenous Bougainvilleans.
This directive, issued under the authority of the Minister for Commerce, Trade, Industry and Economic Development, Hon. Patrick Nisira, is in line with Bougainville Executive Council (BEC) Decision No. 18 of 2024 on the Bougainville Indigenous Business Protection List.
The moratorium includes the following key directives:
- Implementation of BEC Decision No. 18 of 2024 on the Bougainville Indigenous Business Protection List;
- A moratorium on new foreign investment business activities reserved for local Bougainvilleans;
- A total ban on new foreign investment in sectors reserved for Bougainvilleans, including retailing and wholesaling, whether through joint ventures or standalone businesses; and
- A restriction on joint ventures and proposed investments through marriage, specifically involving Bougainvillean men and women with foreign spouses.
Minister Nisira in announcing the moratorium, emphasized the need to protect the growth of indigenous Bougainville businesses, particularly in the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.
“This is an interim regulatory measure to safeguard the interests of indigenous Bougainvilleans and ensure they take ownership of their economic destiny,” Nisira said. “We have seen in other parts of the country how foreign businesses have taken over reserved sectors, pushing locals into informal markets such as betelnut and alcohol sales. This approach will allow Bougainvilleans to fully participate in and benefit from these business opportunities.”
He reiterated that his Ministry and Department remains committed to enforcing policies that support economic sector growth while protecting the rights of indigenous Bougainvilleans in business.
The Minister however reassured that the moratorium does not hinder Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in unrestricted sectors and welcomed investors to explore opportunities in other industries within Bougainville.
“We welcome foreign businesses to invest in areas not included in the reserved list. This means the moratorium does not impede Foreign Direct Investment in unrestricted sectors. Therefore, on behalf of the Toroama-Nisira government, I welcome investors to invest in Bougainville.”
For further information or clarification on the Bougainville Indigenous Business Protection List, investors and stakeholders are advised to contact the Department of Commerce & Trade in Buka.
