The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation have welcomed Papua New Guinea’s decision to remove the import duty under the Melanesian Spearhead Group Trade Agreement.

The duty reduction will support Fiji businesses in the further development of trade in the region.

FCEF president Mark Mathews says, this is an important development for Fiji businesses, and will benefit the PNG and Fiji economy.

Mathew says, everyone should work together for mutual benefit in trade of goods and services.

Fiji businesses that have established trade arrangements with PNG will now benefit from the opportunity for further development.

He says for other businesses, this also presents an opportunity to develop trade in the largest market in the Pacific region.