The construction work on Kavieng’s first modern city mall will commence next year in February, opposite Bisi Trading. The ground breaking ceremony for this project, that is a joint-venture partnership between the New Ireland’s business arm; the New Ireland Development Corporation (NIDC) and developer, Modern Niugini Estate Development Limited, took place over the past weekend. On hand to officiate the ground breaking were New Ireland Provincial Executive Council Chairman for Works and Infrastructure Andrew Minkiong, Chairlady Assisting the Governor on Finance, Misbil Nelson, New Ireland Development Corporation (NIDC) Chairman Mr. Chris Tarkap and Developer Roger Lin. Speaking on behalf of the New Ireland Provincial Government was Andrew Minkiong, who said that this is an exciting project that will open up a new chapter for economic development in Kavieng. "This tangible development is a testament and clear demonstration of the visionary leadership of Governor Sir Julius Chan. "This occasion will add another milestone achievement that will transform Kavieng to qualify our quest to attain city status and will assist the Kavieng LLG's transition from an urban LLG to Kavieng City Authority in the not so distant future". The modern two storey shopping mall is being hailed as a great achievement for the people of New Ireland and will create competition amongst the retail businesses, as well as give people more shopping, rental and parking space as well as a pedestrian walkways and bus terminals. The developer, Modern Niugini Real Estate Development Limited signed the Project Agreement with New Ireland Development Corporation NIDC in 2019 however due to COVID-19 restrictions, mobilization of materials into the country has been slow. Developer, Roger Lin said they were awaiting the arrival of building materials before they commence. The project will take two years to complete.