OCTOBER 27TH 2021
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape says has warned companies involved in illicit trafficking of goods into the country that they will lose their trading license.
He sounded the warning in Port Moresby today when receiving a report on ‘Illicit Tobacco in Papua New Guinea’ from the Manufacturers’ Council of PNG.
The report by global consulting firm, FTI Consulting, says the Government will lose K952 million in 2021 from direct and indirect lost tax revenue and up to K5.49 billion in 2030 if the issue of illicit tobacco is not addressed.
PM Marape said his Government would take on board all recommendations of the report presented to him by Manufacturers’ Council CEO Chey Scovell in the presence of National Planning Secretary Koney Samuel and Customs’ Chief Commissioner David Towe.
He said his Government, since taking office in May 2019, was very serious about the issue of illicit trade in the country.
PM Marape said companies involved in such activities would be deregistered and banned from operating in the country.
“This is a stern warning to all those companies involved in the illicit trade of counterfeit products and illegal products that they will be deregistered,” he said.
“I would like to encourage our State agencies, including Customs and Police, to ensure that we stop this business of illegal trade.”
PM Marape said he supported the concept of a task force, involving both private sector and Government, to curb down on illicit trade.
“We need to be vigilant against the illegal traders,” he said.
PM Marape also assured the Manufacturers’ Council of a review of current excise regimes, especially those relating to tobacco and alcohol, in the lead-up to the Budget session next month.
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