PNG TO LOOSE OVER A BILLION KINA IF FOREST INDUSTRY SHUTS DOWN By Susan Kania – NBC News PNG /////////////////////////////////////////////////// The Forest Industry Association said PNG expects to lose over a Billion Kina if the industry shuts operation. Four companies have already ceased operations. The industry had threatened to close this month after the government approved a tax rise on log exports levy from 35 to 59 percent. In an exclusive interview with NBC News, the Association’s executive officer, Bob Tate warned of massive job losses especially in rural PNG, termination of forest investments and spin-off benefits. Forest Minister, Solan Mirism said a review will be conducted after six months to see whether the tax is affecting the industry. “If there is no industry than there is nothing to raxed but we would expect the government revenues on exports to fall anyway, given markets trend currently. “In addition to the four companies that have already closed, there might be none left in 6-months time. “So we will keep advocating for the deferment of the tax increase and a broad base stakeholder consultation on the future of foresty in PNG, said Tate. The Association expects to hold talks with the government to review and revoke the imposition of the new tax rates. Mr. Tate said this is the second time the government has breached the agreement with the industry to limit export taxes to 28-point-5 percent of the sales value. Meantime, Mr. Tate said, the inevitable consequence of an unsustainable tax rate may see industries close or go bankrupt. He said these following reactions from the Forest Minister Solan Mirism and Forestry Managing Director Tunou Sabuin to the threat issued by the Industry to shut down this month. The Association intends to hold a roundtable discussion with the government to immediately review and revoke the imposition of the new tax rates. “We are now aware of four companies that have ceased operations, said Mr. Tate. Mr. Tate said the association will continue to advocate on the issue adding that the implementation of the new Tax Regime has been delayed following discussions with the Prime Minister. Ends// ///////////////////////////////////////////////////