The poorest country in South East Asia is the independent state of Papua New Guinea. This island country is located to the north of Australia and, despite to being so close to such a developed country, suffers heavy economic difficulties. Their main items of export are agricultural products such as cocoa, coffee, palm oil, whereas industrial export is present mainly by natural resources.
PNG has its own fleet of commercial vessels that allows for trafficking of goods between the islands, but there is a very weak yacht market here. The reason for it is the absence of any tourist activity and the poverty of the country itself. Its proximity to its neighbor, Australia has accounted for some sailboats appearing in this region, which you can buy quite readily. There are some motor yachts, mostly imported, delivered from Indonesia and China. The yacht sales market in PNG is slow growing, and there is not much presence from local manufacturing here or demand for from the local population.
Nevertheless, a travelling collector will be able to buy a boat here. Truthfully, it is not going to be easy. There are very few yachts for sale in this region, and most owners hold onto their vessels. You would have to travel here in person and find one on your own, but it may not be much of a find. The prices tend to be fair depending on size and condition. Importation is limited, as well, simply because there aren’t enough manufacturing facilities to meet the very meager demand. In the case that you still want to buy a boat from Papua New Guinea, there is no need to come here in person. It just isn’t worth the trouble: the hotels are few, and very few actually understand English. The behavior of the locals is not that civilized, as well. You’d be better of entrusting a yacht broker who will help you with your choice, evaluating your find, as well as registration and delivery. After expenses for shipping, you’d be surprised how little these boats can cost if, in fact, you can find one that meets all of your requirements.
