Business News

Food sales have been “super slow” this year compared to the past, according to some food vendors. The “first timers” among them say if sales stay as slow as they are, this may be their last time to participate in the annual event. Gerard Olaes of Jologs Barbeque & Catering said a few people hav…

This was based on the regional fish data statistics from the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration updated on Dec. 31, 2009. The CNMI Division of Fish and Wildlife estimated annual commercial landings reported a total of 555,698 pounds in 19…

Dr. Claret Ruane, resident development economist of the University of Guam-Pacific Center for Economic Initiatives and associate professor of economics and finance, School of Business and Public Administration told the Variety in an e-mail that participation has not been that good yet, with less th…

Imports included petroleum, oil, lubricants, cement, garment, food items, construction materials, beverages, and others. This was based on the 2009 report from the Port of Saipan, Commonwealth Ports Authority submitted to the CNMI Department of Commerce. The CNMI’s imports have been steadily declin…

Now, Li Yuen said he can barely send $100 a month “because everything went up” — house rent, gasoline, food, clothing, utility —  except his income. “Few people use the taxis nowadays, even on weekends, unlike before when garment factories were still operational,” he said. Jung Ji, another taxi dri…

SBDC’s newly hired director, Gary A. Liddle said the re-establishment will “re-acquaint” businesses with the services and assistance the center offers. Liddle said the open house, slated from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, is a result of a partnership between  Commerce, the Commonwealth Development Authority, …

USDA Area II director for Rural Development Joseph M. Diego said during last week’s workshop for small businesses that farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses that have energy projects can apply for financing capital under the Rural Energy for America or REAP program. “REAP provides guaranteed…

Pawnshops have no safety net against accepting stolen items because they cannot ask customers outright if the items they brought for sale or pawn are stolen. Saipan and Northern Islands Municipal Council chairman Ramon B. Camacho stirred the pot when he raised concerns that 24-hour pawnshops may on…

This number, based on the records of the CNMI Department of Labor, includes new work permits, amended permits, duplicates, extensions, renewals, transfers, and others. The department issued the highest number of work permits to foreign workers under “other services”  category,  4,412 work permits o…

Avail of promo value meals for the four Saturdays of June — 5, 12, 19 and 26 from McDonalds outlets and attach the free tickets to your receipts with a minimum $15 purchase for a chance to win attractive prizes in the raffle draw which will be held at 3 p.m. on June 26. The Saturday promos at the M…