TLTB’s Participation in the Fiji–PNG Business Mission

The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) is honored to have been part of the recent Fiji–Papua New Guinea Business Mission, held from the 24th to the 26th of March in Port Moresby. This important mission was led by the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, and facilitated by Investment Fiji. It served as a milestone moment not only for the Fiji delegation but also the TLTB team who gained valuable insights into the dynamic world of regional trade, business leadership, and strategic investment.

The TLTB team, consisting of CEO Mr. Solomone Nata, EO Samu Newa, and LRO Senimili Botitu, were selected by their respective Divisional Managers to represent the Estate Services and Landowners Affairs Division. The delegation departed from Nausori and traveled through Nadi and Brisbane before reaching Port Moresby.

Day One: Strategic Briefings

Held at the Hilton Hotel, the first day was dedicated to a private briefing session with prominent business leaders, including:

· Mr. Pradeep Lal, Regional CEO of Vodafone PNG, who shared the company’s successful business journey and investment outlook in healthcare, education, and agriculture.

· Mr. Pradeep Panda of CPL Group, representing one of PNG’s most successful retail conglomerates, founded by Fiji-born Sir Mahesh Patel. He emphasized health, food, and lifestyle services.

· Mr. Clarence Hoot, Managing Director of Investment Promotion Authority PNG, who highlighted business risks and growth potentials.

· Business Advantage International representatives spoke about PNG’s economic journey and opportunities moving forward.

· Mr. Michael Nacola, Managing Director of BSP Life, presented future strategies for regional financial growth.

Day Two: Business Forum at APEC Haus

The official Business Forum saw opening remarks from First Secretary Ms. Rosa Dalitucama, who emphasized the significance of the mission in strengthening Fiji–PNG relations.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Kamikamica thanked the Motu and Kaitapu landowners and stressed the importance of this mission in opening up new business opportunities across both nations.

Sir Mahesh Patel, as keynote speaker, delivered a powerful message to entrepreneurs:

· Take risks and stay adaptable.

· Build with impact, not just for profit.

· Commit to lifelong learning.

His call to drive innovation and sustainability resonated strongly with the entire delegation.

Day Three: Site Visits

1. CPL Warehouse, Waigani – The team toured CPL’s central warehouse and observed operational logistics, workforce coordination, and the supply chain of local produce—a powerful insight into community-based business models.2. CPL Supermarket – The team witnessed firsthand the importance of local produce from PNG’s highlands, reinforcing the idea that agricultural empowerment can drive economic development.

This mission reinforced the importance of regional trade, agricultural investment, and strategic partnerships. The knowledge gained is critical not only for our personal growth but will greatly benefit landowning units in Fiji. It highlighted how vacant land can be transformed into productive agricultural assets, thereby supporting national food security and rural livelihoods.

In the coming days, a full report will be submitted to Executive Management with practical recommendations based on the mission’s outcomes, including opportunities raised during the Talanoa session with the Fijian diaspora in Port Moresby.