Question

Donald of America buys a PNG bilum from Highlands tour. The bilum(bag) cost K400 which is US$120. Explain how the buying of the bilum or bag by Donald would affect PNG's foreign exchange reserves assuming nothing else changes?

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Answer
Briefly explain the effect of the Asia pacific Economic Cooperation(APEC) meeting in PNG on the PNG's balance of payment position?
Answered by GPT-4o mini
When Donald of America buys a bilum from a PNG seller, the transaction has implications for Papua New Guinea's (PNG) foreign exchange reserves. Here’s a breakdown of the process and its effects:

1. **Currency Exchange**: Donald pays for the bilum in US dollars, which means that PNG will receive US dollars in exchange for the goods sold. In this case, the cost of the bilum is US$120.

2. **Increase in Foreign Exchange Reserves**: Since PNG is receiving US dollars, its foreign exchange reserves will increase by the equivalent amount. This is because the central bank of PNG maintains reserves in various foreign currencies, and the inflow of US dollars adds to their holdings.

3. **Impact on Trade Balance**: The transaction would contribute positively to PNG's trade balance since it represents an export of goods to a foreign customer (Donald). An increase in exports generally improves a country's balance of payments, leading to more robust foreign exchange reserves.

4. **Assuming No Other Changes**: If we assume that there are no other transactions occurring (i.e., no other imports or exports, and no financial inflows or outflows), the simple act of selling the bilum to Donald contributes positively to PNG's foreign exchange position.

5. **Overall Effect**: As a result of this transaction, PNG’s foreign exchange reserves rise by US$120. This enhancement in reserves can help stabilize the country's currency and provide a buffer against economic shocks.

In summary, Donald’s purchase of the bilum from PNG increases the country's foreign exchange reserves by the value of the transaction (US$120), assuming that nothing else in the economy changes.
Answered by GPT-4o mini
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Papua New Guinea (PNG) can have several effects on the country’s balance of payments position. Here’s a brief overview:

1. **Increased Exports and Tourism**: Hosting an APEC meeting typically attracts a significant number of foreign delegates, business leaders, and tourists. This influx can lead to increased spending in the local economy, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, transport, and services, positively impacting the current account of the balance of payments.

2. **Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)**: The exposure from hosting APEC can enhance PNG's visibility as a destination for investment. This may lead to an increase in foreign direct investment inflows, improving the capital account of the balance of payments.

3. **Infrastructure Development**: Preparations for APEC may involve investments in infrastructure (e.g., transportation, hotels, venues). While these investments could initially lead to capital outflows, the long-term benefits could attract future economic activity and potentially increase exports.

4. **Multilateral Trade Opportunities**: The meeting provides a platform for discussions on trade agreements, collaborations, and partnerships, which may lead to enhanced trade relationships, thus improving PNG's export potential over time.

5. **Short-term vs Long-term Effects**: While the immediate effect of the APEC meeting may show a positive flux in foreign currency inflows from tourism and business events, the long-term benefits will depend on how effectively PNG leverages this opportunity to build lasting economic ties and amplify its trade relationships in the Asia-Pacific region.

In summary, the APEC meeting in PNG is likely to positively affect the country's balance of payments position through increased tourism, enhanced investment prospects, and potential growth in trade relationships, while initial capital outflows may be balanced by future gains.

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