RNZ has published an article examining the struggles of small business owners in Papua New Guinea, headlined "'They just want to be seen': The struggle facing PNG's small businesses." Written by journalist Johnny Blades, the report profiles Sylvia Pascoe, an entrepreneur behind Pascoe Events and Marketing and POM City Markets. The article, released on 8 October 2026, highlights the broader challenges of running a small enterprise in PNG, including limited access to markets, infrastructure constraints, and a lack of institutional support. Pascoe's story serves as a lens into the daily realities for many small business operators in the country, who often operate with minimal visibility and resources. The report underscores a persistent issue in PNG's economy, where the informal sector plays a significant role yet receives little formal recognition or assistance.
'They just want to be seen': The struggle facing Papua New Guinea's small businesses
RNZ report highlights challenges for entrepreneurs in PNG, featuring business owner Sylvia Pascoe
Analysis
Why This Matters
- Small businesses are a critical part of PNG's economy, providing jobs and services in communities where formal employment is scarce.
- The report underscores a gap between policy rhetoric and on-the-ground reality for entrepreneurs who struggle with visibility, infrastructure, and access to finance.
- As Papua New Guinea seeks economic diversification, supporting its small business sector could have broad implications for poverty reduction and local development.
Background
Papua New Guinea has one of the smallest formal economies in the Pacific relative to its population. A large share of economic activity occurs in the informal sector, and small businesses often face high costs, unreliable utilities, and limited access to credit. Government programs to support SMEs have existed but are frequently criticised for slow implementation and corruption. The RNZ report adds to a growing body of journalism highlighting the gap between international aid and development goals and the lived experience of PNG entrepreneurs.
Key Perspectives
Small business owners: They seek recognition, better infrastructure, and simpler regulatory processes. Entrepreneurs like Sylvia Pascoe want their businesses to be taken seriously by banks, government agencies, and larger companies. Government and policymakers: Successive PNG governments have acknowledged the importance of SMEs, but enforcement of support programs and anti-corruption measures remains weak. International observers and aid partners: Donors often emphasise the potential of the private sector in PNG but find it difficult to address systemic issues like land tenure, crime, and transport.
What to Watch
- Whether the PNG government announces any new SME support measures or reforms in upcoming budgets.
- The response from development partners such as Australia, New Zealand, and the World Bank to the issues raised.
- Any sign of increased advocacy or collective action among PNG small business owners.
Sources
- 'They just want to be seen': The struggle facing PNG's small businesses — RNZ New Zealand Headlines