Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru says the Pacific Maritime Industrial Zone (PMIZ) in Madang is expected to see work on its first cannery very soon. Minister Maru said the initial work is expected to start next month pending a clearance. "I'm happy to report that we are waiting for the clearance from the State Solicitor for the State and RD Tuna to enter into the Joint Venture for the project," said Maru. Minister Maru, who was responding to the MP for Bogia during question time in parliament this morning, apologized also for the 15 years of delay in developing the PMIZ, stating that there were serious constraints that led to the delay. These include the establishment of water and electricity and a wharf and cooling facility, which have to be in place first. That is way he said the Joint Venture is the way to go because RD Tuna already has these facilities, and all is needed is to build fish processing facilities at the PMIZ. He added that this project is important as it will enable PNG to process fish and export to overseas markets. Meanwhile regarding the expected equity from the project, Minister Maru said he proposed for the Madang Provincial government to receive 10% equity and Sumkar and other districts in Madang to receive 5% equity each.