Key stakeholders from government agencies, non-government organisations (NGOs), the private sector, exporters, and development partners gathered at the Mendana Hotel for a validation workshop to finalize the country’s draft National Export Policy on Friday September 12.
The workshop, organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour & Immigration, aimed to present findings and gather feedback from stakeholders.
Permanent Secretary (PS) Riley Mesepitu emphasized the importance of a robust policy, saying, “This validation workshop is a crucial step in ensuring our policy is inclusive, forward-looking, and responsive to the needs of exporters.”
Consultant Dr. Dan Gay presented the draft policy, outlining strategic focus areas, including: Export diversification, Responses to LDC graduation in December 2027, shifting from low to high-value-added industries, and Building economic resilience and sustainability
The workshop featured presentations and discussions, with numerous suggestions recorded to inform the final draft of the policy, expected by the end of October 2025.
The final version will be submitted for cabinet approval by October 30th, 2025, with implementation expected to begin in 2026.
The National Export Policy is a key recommendation of the National Trade Policy, aiming to diversify and develop export trade through consistent and well-designed sector policies.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour & Immigration will lead the implementation of the policy, with collaboration from partners.