Indonesian envoy explores trade prospects in West New Britain

Indonesia’s ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Andriana Supandy, has begun a two-day visit to West New Britain Province aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties.

Supandy met provincial governor Sasindran Muthuvel today, outlining opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, trade, tourism, forestry and education.

The envoy said his trip comes ahead of annual bilateral talks between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape, scheduled later this year.

“West New Britain, being the leading oil palm producing province, has much to offer in terms of trade and investment,” Supandy said.

He also promoted the upcoming 40th Trade Expo Indonesia, set for October 15–19, which he described as the largest trade fair in Southeast Asia. The event typically attracts more than 30,000 visitors and features over 5,000 exhibitions.

According to Supandy, the expo could provide a platform for Papua New Guinea and West New Britain to expand business partnerships with Indonesia.