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PNG Ports ‘Raise the Bar’ in
We have now well and truly entered the year 2025 of the Gregorian calendar, which is the de facto international standard and is used almost everywhere in the world for civil purposes. By the end of 2025, one quarter of this 21st century will have passed. When we consider what has happened to mankind, the advancement of our knowledge and the changes to life over the last 2024 years Ano Domine, our current pace of change does not seem so palpable, but science and technology continue to lead changes in our world that are still hard to fathom. We live in a world where 81% of our energy comes from fossil fuels in vast volumes to all corners of the Earth. The outlook of such energy supply is thus central to the future of our existence.
However, Papua New Guinea has endured considerably more change over the last fifty years than perhaps many other nations as it approaches the fiftieth anniversary of its Independence. It has not only transitioned from a somewhat unwelcome colonisation by foreigners to free
EDITOR’S NOTE: Michael McWalter, former Director, Petroleum Division and Adviser to the Government of Papua New Guinea and erstwhile petroleum adviser to the Governments of Ghana, Liberia, Cambodia, Sao Tome, and discusses the global energy outlook and what it means for Papua New Guinea with direct reference and extracts of various reports of ExxonMobil Corp., the IEA and the IPCC to whom grateful thanks are provided for their insights.
Michael McWalter is a certified petroleum geologist and technical specialist in upstream petroleum industry regulation, administration, and institutional development.
independence but has attempted to modernise a society characterised by a diverse clan-based indigenous culture and a strong spiritual and subsistence attachment to customary land across an equally diverse geographical landscape. The juxtaposition of modern life against traditional community living, whilst rich and exciting, brings many challenges to the people of Papua New Guinea. Not the least of these challenges is the commercial development of the Nation’s natural resources which whilst noble in original intent to provide for the welfare of the people, does not always turn out to be so munificent. PNG joined the ranks of oil producers in mid-1992 and only commenced liquefied natural gas production (LNG) in 2014. It has thus been late to participate in fuelling the world.
PNG’s current production of oil and gas is significant to its small, but growing population, and its emerging economy, but not significant on a global scale. The PNG LNG Project is currently producing
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around 8 million tonnes per year of LNG for export. That is equivalent to 432 Petajoules (PJ) per year or 0.432 Exajoules (EJ) per year, or just 0.07% of global energy supply, 0.3% of global gas supply, or even more specifically, 1.85 % of global LNG trade. It is projected to keep on processing natural gas into LNG for the foreseeable future, so long as gas field production can be maintained. The PNG LNG Project also produces gas condensate which is mixed with crude oil production from the much-depleted nearby Kutubu and Moran oil fields. Aggregate liquid petroleum production amounts to around 26,000 barrels per day, a mere 0.025% of global oil production. All in all, PNG gross petroleum production is circa 200,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. This may be sustainable for some decades to come and with a small population, it may benefit the people and national development, if the sector is wisely planned and managed. However, PNG’s future oil and gas industry comes at a time when there is pressure to reduce the combustion of hydrocarbons, or fossil fuels, due to Page 12 >
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climate change concerns, and there are other dire factors such as the changing global political dynamics as the world becomes increasingly multipolar. As the US retreats from being a global democratic guardian, and Russia and China strengthen their influence, one cannot be sure of obtaining the necessary exogenous inputs into further petroleum development, particularly those for LNG development: massive investment, high technology, large-scale financing, and reliable markets.
Typically, at year end, forecasts are typically made of the future outlooks of economies and businesses, and even more so, when the year is quinquennial (divisible by five) or marks a quarter century. Major oil and gas companies as well as energy institutions are issuing their outlooks for the future of the oil and gas industry in the context of the pressing need to balance energy demand and security with the necessity to reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide into the global atmosphere resulting from the combustion of hydrocarbons fuels.
from coal. Together, these hydrocarbons contributed to 81.5% of global energy supply. In 2023, we globally consumed the equivalent of 101.39 billion barrels of oil. But as we know, this comes with a specific problem that the combustion of hydrocarbons produces not only water vapour, but carbon dioxide.
ture to rise. There are initiatives to restrain the use of hydrocarbon fuels in the global energy mix, but whether the rise of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can be halted, let alone reversed, remains to be seen.
The equation of hydrocarbon combustion shows that for each and every carbon atom burnt there are a corresponding number of carbon dioxide molecules formed as a product of combustion. Alas, carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas as far as it permits the transmission of the shorter wavelength light of the sun to penetrate the atmosphere but does not permit the longer wavelength re-radiated light to exit back through the atmosphere. It thus traps the energy of that light as heat in the atmosphere. Indeed, without carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, Earth’s natural greenhouse effect would be too weak to keep the average global surface temperature above freezing. We need greenhouse warming to
One hundred years ago, Time Magazine, an American new magazine, reported on 6th April 2025 that, “The world production of petroleum in 1924 is estimated at 1,013,139,000 barrels. This is a new maximum record since it squeezes ahead of the great 1923 annual output by 2,144,000 barrels. It is almost double the 1919 output of 544,885,000 barrels.” Production of a little over one billion barrels per year equates to 2.775 million barrel per day, and as we read above, it was surging ahead. Could one have foreseen then that global oil production some 100 years later in 2024 would be about 102.9 million barrels per day? And of course, this does not include the production of equally important natural gas to help fuel our modern world.
THE CURRENT SITUATION
As of the end of 2023, the world used 619 ExaJoules (EJ) of energy per year of which 196.43 EJ came from oil, 144 EJ from gas and 164 EJ
The global appetite for hydrocarbons, especially oil and gas fluids, which have a high energy density and are an integrated part of our modern economic seems to be insatiable. There is nevertheless significant expansion of renewable energy in the global energy mix, albeit from a very low base of just over 8% of energy consumption. Renewables grew at 12% per annum in 2023. However, when we look at the contribution of different energy sources, we must note that consumption of oil also grew in absolute terms by 4.8 EJ as compared to the growth in the consumption of renewables at 5.4 EJ. It is within this context of the current global energy situation that forecasts are being made. The lowering of carbon emissions is important whilst still providing energy security to the developed economies and fundamental energy access for developing nations.
An Exajoule is 1018 Joules, or 1 million trillion Joules of energy, or 1,000 PetaJoules (PJ) or 277.8 billion KiloWatt hours (KWh), or 947,817,120.3 million British Thermal Units (BTU), equivalent to about 163.5 million barrels of oil.
make the Earth habitable. However, by adding excess carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, we are supercharging the natural greenhouse effect, causing global atmospheric tempera -
A pragmatic outlook at the future is required that considers the practicalities and difficulties of energy transition for most of the people of the developing world that do not have the luxury of choice of the more affluent Western Nations and wish
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simply to have better lives removed from poverty. After all, does not the necessity to reduce carbon dioxide emissions emanate from the prior and profligate consumption of hydrocarbons by the people of those Western nations? Hydrocarbon combustion (amongst other types of emissions) resulted in the rapid expansion of the economies of these nations and has provided to their citizens a life of leisure and luxury, whilst many other people around the world are stuck in poverty. Unfortunately, it has also propelled, and in many instances continues to propel, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration levels to where they are now much higher than they were before. Currently, global atmospheric carbon dioxide is measured at 425.40 ppm (based on the Moana Loa Observatory readings of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) whereas prior to global industrialisation it was around 280 ppm (pre-1900).
Some people consider that the world is constantly teetering on the edge of an energy crisis, with geopolitical conflicts, economic volatility, and shifting policies all shaping the future of global energy supply access. However, this seeming crisis might be nothing other than a grand opportunity to embrace modern technologies and better manage our energy usage. Part of that opportunity may be the integration of diverse energy sources: fossil fuels, renewables, nuclear, and emerging technologies which may foster prosperity, innovation, and environmental stewardship. As the global population rises, so does energy demand, and the push for a net-zero carbon emission global environment by 2050 raises key questions of energy balance, access, affordability, sustainability, and security? There are some key factors that cannot be denied.
• The energy transition should be viewed as energy integration
• There are four key drivers of energy access: consumer demand, capital, technology, and policy
• We must recognise that energy expansion fuels economic growth and human development
• We must countenance the growing
energy demand of artificial intelligence, data centres, and the future of power generation
• Realistic pathways need to be defined to achieve energy security and emissions goals.
I turn now to look at some specific outlooks commencing with the prowess and intellect of that of ExxonMobil (a major supplier of energy), the conservative views of the International Energy Agency (IEA) (a group of significant consumers) and the scientific and somewhat ponderous views of the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (an altruistic and optimistic observer). There are, of course, so many views with many perceptions of bias, but energy demand is growing, emissions are increasing, and the Earth is fragile.
The Global Outlook to 2050 of ExxonMobil, a larger US multinational oil and gas corporation, envisages a slow transition from hydrocarbon-sourced energy to alternate supplies. It is the largest US-based oil and gas company, and the largest investor-owned oil company in the world; they understand their business very well and have unparalleled expertise at hand, anchored in realism. However, it is not the largest oil company, by any means; that accolade goes to the likes of Saudi Arabian Oil Co (Saudi Aramco); the China Petroleum & Chemical Corp. (Sinopec) and PetroChina Co. Ltd. (part of the Chinese National Petroleum Corp., or CNPC), and the cohort of other National Oil Companies around the world.
We must also not forget that in almost all petroleum development
regimes (apart from the non-Federal lands of the US), host governments have a significant fiscal and commercial interest in their national petroleum resources gaining substantial monetary benefits from the extraction and production of oil and gas. People like to think of Big Bad Oil, but in most parts of the world, behind the more public face of the recognised public oil companies there are Big Bad Governments milking the petroleum business for all they can get, and far too often wasting the resultant revenues one way or another.
ExxonMobil makes its analysis based on a long-term assessment of economic trends; advances in technology; consumer behaviour and climate-related public policy. Its main conclusions are that by 2050, there will be:
• ten billion people on Earth with the global population increasing at a rate of 1 million people every six days;
• a 15% increase in energy use with most of that growth going to toward raising living standards in the developing world;
• a 25% decline in carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 and that by 2030, carbon emissions are projected to fall for the first time;
• a greater than four-times increase of solar and wind derived energy in the total energy mix with rapid growth in wind and solar spurring the biggest changes to the energy landscape; and
• a greater than 50% of energy demand will still be met by oil and natural gas which will remain an essential part of the global energy mix.
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“In 2050, the world will be different— vastly different,” says ExxonMobil, “and to meet critical needs, the world will need to increase access to reliable, affordable energy from a broad set of solutions.”
ExxonMobil’s assessment is that all energy types will remain in the mix. Renewables will grow the fastest and coal will decline the most, but oil and natural gas will remain essential to global energy supply. To support the advancement of renewables, considerable policy support is required, but ultimately market forces will be the key determinant.
ExxonMobil rationalises that with billions more people of Earth, many with more prosperity, much more energy will be required by 2050. Carbon dioxide emissions will indeed likely decline as a low-carbon solutions advance, but they will not reach so-called net-zero emissions.
Constructive Government policies, recent technologies, and the market-driven mechanisms will be required. Oil and natural gas will still be critically required to enable much needed economic growth in the developing world.
The GDP per capita of developing nations will more than double between now and 2050, pushing up the demand for energy. Whilst lower-emission energy options will be vital to making progress toward the global environmental goals, failing to meet this demand would prevent developing nations from achieving their economic goals and their citizens from obtaining living better lives. The key question is how that growing energy demand will be met.
Renewable energy development is progressing, and ExxonMobil sees wind and solar powered energy providing as much as 11% of the global energy by 2050, five times that of today. But even then, oil and natural gas are still projected to meet about 54% of the world’s energy needs in 2050.
ExxonMobil projects that the global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions will decline by 25% by 2050. Larger reductions in such emissions are still needed to keep global warming from exceeding 2 degrees Celsius, according to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The world will need to radically increase lower-emission
energy supply whilst preserving the advantages of today’s energy systems while significantly and efficiently reducing emissions.
The global population is inexorably projected to rise and with is the global GDP per capita is expected to rise by roughly 85% by 2050. Those who live in developed countries are projected to see their purchasing power rise by about 50%. Though this is significant, people in the developing world would still most likely have far less purchasing power in 2050 than people in developed nations have today.
Energy use and improved GDP and living standards go hand in hand. One does not go without the other. When China’s per capita GDP was just US$2,000, its energy use was low – about 36 million British thermal units (MMBtu) (or about 6 barrels of oil) per person per year, deep in the realm of energy poverty. By 2021, when per capita GDP passed US $11,000, China’s energy use had risen to 101 MMBtu (about 17 barrels of oil) per person per year, well above the global average.
Meantime, Africa’s average energy use per person per year has remained at a low of 27 MMBtu (just 4 barrels of oil) for the past two decades, and its per capita GDP has only risen
by about US$500 during that time. Energy poverty denies people any rise in living standards.
ExxonMobil envisages that the world will need about 15% more energy by 2050 to meet the needs of 2 billion additional people and a global economy, with much of that attributable to meeting the improved living standards of a developing world, albeit with a larger population. This predicted large expansion in population and GDP in nonOECD countries will require much more energy use. By contrast the developed world, characterised by scant population growth, and hopefully greater efficiency is projected to have a decline in energy usage.
The International Energy Agency (IEA), which has a more detailed and conservative outlook, thinks differently. The IEA is not, as some think, a UN agency; it is an autonomous intergovernmental organisation, established in 1974, that provides policy recommendations, analysis and data on the global energy sector for its 34 member countries and 13 associated member countries, which together account for a colossal 75% of global energy demand. It was es -
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tablished under the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in the aftermath of the 1973 oil crisis. It is essentially a rich country club of oil and gas user economies, though they have politely opened associated membership to some other countries in recent years.
The IEA says that there are three overarching and inter-related themes for its outlook. The first is energy security, corresponding to the core of the IEA’s mandate as well as the imperatives of the present given escalating risks in the Middle East and elsewhere. The second relates to the prospects for clean energy transitions, which have accelerated rapidly in recent years, but which need to move much faster to meet climate goals. A third theme is uncertainty, an ever-present factor in any forward-looking analysis, but particularly visible at this time; their outlook includes several sensitivity cases on key factors affecting oil, gas, and electricity demand in their stated scenarios.
The potential for near-term disruption to oil and gas supply is also considered high due to global conflicts, especially in the Middle East. Around 20% of today’s global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies flow through the Strait of Hormuz, a maritime chokepoint in the region. However, while geopolitical risks remain elevated, an easing in underlying market balances and prices is thought to be likely, as slowing oil demand growth in the scenarios gives rise to spare crude oil production capacity perhaps reaching as much as 8 million barrels per day by 2030. A wave of new LNG projects is set to add almost 50% to available export capacity by 2030.
In all IEA’s scenarios, growth in global energy demand slows due to improvement in energy efficiency, electrification, and a substantial increase in the contribution of renewables. By 2030, nearly every other car sold in the world is likely to be electric, although delays in the roll-out of charging infrastructure or in policy implementation could lead to slower growth. Clean energy may meet virtually all growth in energy demand in aggregate in their scenarios between 2023 and 2035,
leading to an overall peak in demand for all three fossil fuels before 2030, although trends vary widely across countries at various stages of economic and energy development. Electricity demand is projected to grow much faster than overall energy demand, thanks to existing uses, notably cooling, and new ones such as electric mobility and data centres, but it still must come from some energy source. Renewables lead the expansion in electricity generation, with sufficient speed to meet in aggregate all the increases in demand. IEA consider that there is scope to go even faster: today’s solar manufacturing capacity hovers around 1,100 GW per year, potentially allowing for deployment of solar projects almost three-times higher than in 2023.
The share of clean energy investment in emerging market and developing economies outside of China remains stuck at 15% of the total, even though these economies account for two-thirds of the global population and one-third of global GDP. A range of new business models and a policy push in some countries ensure that an additional 550 million people gain access to clean cooking and nearly 200 million to electricity in the scenarios between 2023 and 2030. This still falls well short of universal access goals.
The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a behemoth UN organisation of scientists. It was created in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with the objective to provide governments at all levels with scientific information that they can use to develop climate policies. IPCC reports
are also a key input into international climate change negotiations. The IPCC is an organisation of governments that are members of the United Nations or WMO. The IPCC currently has 195 members. Through its assessments, the IPCC identifies the strength of scientific agreement in different areas and indicates where further research is needed. The IPCC does not conduct its own research. Regarding energy matters the IPCC report: Climate Change 2023, Synthesis Report, Summary for Policymakers unequivocally states the facts of climate change.
The report states that human activities, principally through emissions of greenhouse gases, have unequivocally caused global warming, with global surface temperature reaching 1.1 degrees Celsius (oC) above that of 1850 to 1900 in the period 2011 to 2020. Global greenhouse gas emissions have continued to increase, with unequal historical and ongoing contributions arising from unsustainable energy use, land use and land-use change, lifestyles and patterns of consumption and production across regions, between and within countries, and among individuals.
Global net anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have been
Fig 8: The IEA scenarios (STEPS) see clean energy poised for huge growth, while coal, oil, and natural gas each reach a peak by 2030 and then start to decline. APS = the Announced Pledges Scenario; NZE = Net Zero Emissions, after IEA: World Energy Outlook 2024).
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estimated to be 59 Gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2-eq), in 2019, some 12% higher than in 2010 and 54% higher than in 1990, with the largest share and growth in gross GHG emissions occurring in carbon dioxide from fossil fuels combustion and industrial processes. In 2019, approximately 79% of global GHG emissions came from the sectors of energy, industry, transport, and buildings together.
Globally, widespread, and rapid changes in the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere, and biosphere have occurred. Human-caused climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe. This has led to widespread adverse impacts and related losses and damages to nature and people. Vulnerable communities who have historically contributed the least to current climate change are being disproportionately affected.
Policies and laws addressing mitigation have consistently expanded since. Global GHG emissions in 2030 implied by nationally determined contributions, so-called NDCs, towards emission reduction, announced by October 2021 make it likely that warming will exceed 1.5°C during the 21st century and make it harder to limit warming below 2°C. There are gaps between projected emissions from implemented policies and those from NDCs and finance flows fall short of the levels needed to meet climate goals across all sectors and regions.
Continued greenhouse gas emissions will lead to increasing global warming, with the best estimate of reaching 1.5°C in the near term in considered scenarios and modelled pathways. Every increment of global warming will intensify multiple and concurrent hazards. Deep, rapid, and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions would lead to a discernible slowdown in global warming within around two decades, and to discernible changes in atmospheric composition within a few years.
The IPCC asserts that limiting human-caused global warming requires net zero CO2 emissions. Cumulative carbon emissions until the time of reaching net zero CO2 emissions and the level of greenhouse gas emission reductions this decade largely determine whether warming can be
limited to 1.5°C or 2°C. Projected CO2 emissions from existing fossil fuel infrastructure without additional abatement would exceed the remaining carbon budget for 1.5°C All global modelled pathways that limit warming to 1.5°C with no or limited overshoot, and those that limit warming to 2°C involve rapid and deep and, in most cases, immediate greenhouse gas emissions reductions in all sectors this decade. Global net zero CO2 emissions are reached for these pathway categories, in the early 2050s and around the early 2070s, respectively.
Net zero CO2 energy systems entail: a substantial reduction in overall fossil fuel use, minimal use of unabated fossil fuels, and use of carbon capture and storage in the remaining fossil fuel systems; electricity systems that emit no net CO2; widespread electrification; alternative energy carriers in applications less amenable to electrification; energy conservation and efficiency; and greater integration across the energy system. Large contributions to emissions reductions with costs less than USD 20 tCO2eq-1 come from solar and wind energy, energy efficiency improvements, and methane emissions reductions (coal mining, oil and gas, waste). There are feasible adaptation options that support infrastructure resilience, reliable power systems and efficient water use for existing and new energy generation systems. Energy generation diversification (e.g., via wind, solar, smallscale hydropower) and demand-side management (e.g., storage and energy efficiency improvements) can increase energy reliability and reduce vulnerabilities to climate change. Climate responsive energy markets, updated design standards on energy assets according to current and projected climate change, smart-grid technologies, robust transmission systems and improved capacity to respond to supply deficits have high feasibility in the medium to long term, with mitigation co-benefits.
Mitigation efforts embedded within the wider development context can increase the pace, depth, and breadth of emission reductions. Countries at all stages of economic development seek to improve the well-being of people, and their development priorities reflect different starting points and contexts. Different contexts include but are not limited to social, economic, environ-
mental, cultural, political circumstances, resource endowment, capabilities, international environment, and prior development. In regions with high dependency on fossil fuels for, among other things, revenue and employment generation, mitigating risk for sustainable development requires policies that promote economic and energy sector diversification and considerations of just transitions principles, processes, and practices. Eradicating extreme poverty, energy poverty, and providing decent living standards in low-emitting countries/regions in the context of achieving sustainable development objectives, in the near term, can be achieved without significant global emissions growth.
Effective climate action is enabled by political commitment, well-aligned multilevel governance, institutional frameworks, laws, policies and strategies and enhanced access to finance and technology. Clear goals, coordination across multiple policy domains, and inclusive governance processes facilitate effective climate action. Regulatory and economic instruments can support deep emissions reductions and climate resilience if scaled up and applied widely. Climate resilient development benefits from drawing on diverse knowledge.
Recently elected US President Donald Trump revoked offshore oil and gas leasing bans that effectively blocked drilling in most US coastal waters as he made sweeping moves during his first hours in office to unleash American energy development. Trump’s move came as part of a broad assault on executive orders issued by former President Joe Biden, including revoking his recent decision to bar drilling rigs in some 625 million acres of coastal waters.
The shift would not immediately trigger new offshore lease sales and environmentalists are vowing to fight it in federal court. Oil companies have also displayed little interest in tapping most of the areas Trump moved to put back in play for leasing. Even so, Congressional Republicans are eyeing new offshore oil auctions to raise federal revenue that can help offset the cost of extending the 2017 tax cuts.
It could take years, if ever, for Trump’s move to result in new oil and gas development, and it is not clear that Mr Trump’s move will survive
legal challenges. Nevertheless, the effort underscores the new president’s commitment to a frequent campaign pledge: to unlock more of America’s vast stories of energy.
Trump’s action also responds to the wishes of one of his top constituencies: the oil and gas industry that has long sought more drilling opportunities on federal lands and waters. Industry leaders argue oil and gas will be needed for decades, especially given the predicted surge in electricity demand from artificial intelligence. When American resources are developed, some energy executives say they come with a smaller carbon footprint than fossil fuels from elsewhere around the world.
Trump is clearly moving swiftly to chart a new path where U.S. oil and natural gas are embraced, not restricted.
Mr. Trump was advised during COP 29 not to pull out of the Paris Agreement again. A senior oil and gas executive said that Trump and his administration had discussed bringing common sense back to government and he could apply the same approach to oil and gas, but he there was a real need for a global system to manage greenhouse emissions. Trump might not want electric vehicle industries to become even more dominated by China, as creating more domestic manufacturing jobs fits his American first philosophy. However, Mr Trump has indeed initiated a withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
Regarding Russian sanctions, Trump has stated that he would end the war in Ukraine, but even if a peace agreement can be reached early in his second term, European countries are unlikely to lift economic sanctions on Russia in the near term, which could play to Trump’s favour. He may want Europe to become more dependent on US LNG imports. Also, unknown is whether Trump will continue the price cap on Russian crude exports with the international coalition, or whether he will curry favour with Russia and lift sanctions.
The third major uncertainty is around former President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. Trump has said that the act is feeding the “green new scam.” However, many traditional oil and gas companies are also enjoying tax breaks for carbon capture and underground sequestration (CCUS) and hydrogen resource development,
suggesting he might selectively remove tax incentives from the IRA.
Trump’s decisions during his second term will certainly impact American oil and gas industry in the coming years. How the world at large and the oil and gas industry react to the new President’s policies remains to be seen.
Papua New Guinea only entered largescale gas production in 2014 for the PNG LNG Project which is dedicated to the export of LNG to East Asian markets. Other gas fields remain to be developed: the Elk-Antelope gas field in the Papua LNG Project and the P’nyang gas field in the P’nyang LNG Project. Other smaller discovered gas fields both in the foreland and fold belt remain to further assessed and developed and many undrilled leads and prospect are worthy of further exploration out of which some development will likely ensue. As a Phanerozoic marginal basin to the Australian continent, the Papuan Basin might be expected to host many more gas fields that are yet to be found. The incentive to explore is thus critical, and Papua New Guinea has attractive and reasonable terms for investment in such. Although we might perceive problems of one kind or another, there are few places in the world where access to petroleum prospective lands and seas are without any problem.
The likely greatest impact on Papua New Guinea’s oil and gas future will be what has been outlined above, and all the concomitant exogenous issues such as: will there be funds freely available for investment in petroleum exploration; will technology be offered for efficient production; will there be markets for natural gas; and will gas developments gain financing? All these factors are beyond the control of Papua New Guinea, and they all come in the context of the dire warning of
the IPCC, and the more pragmatic understanding of ExxonMobil about the future global supply of energy. Positioned with significant gas resources adjacent to the markets of Asia places Papua New Guinea conveniently in the competition for LNG supply, free navigational restrictions and having open ocean access. Natural gas is a transition fuel, cleaner burning and efficient in delivering heat to industry, whilst coal and crude oil are not quite so. Most projection show that gas production will expand whilst crude oil and coal production will decline. However, natural gas is still a hydrocarbon, and its combustion inevitably leads to carbon dioxide emissions, so its use will get caught up in the goal of limiting anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere and the grand issue of global warming.
Papua New Guinea will have to claim that its natural gas developments are vital to its economic and human development of its people as a developing nation to enable it to corner a niche in future LNG supply. It will need to cautiously steer between avid green policies that believe energy transition has a big switch that can turn off oil and gas production in an instant, and rampant disregard for the warming of the Earth’s atmosphere by those that just deny the science of global warming. To capture its place in petroleum resource development and production over the next few decades, Papua New Guinea will have to rise to not only these challenges, but also to those arising from a new multipolar global order where the influences of the USA and Europe will wane as Russia, China and indeed the collective power of other alliances emerge such as the so-called BRICs. Astute navigation of these new global politics will require not only knowledge and experience, but tenacity and wisdom.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
2025 marks a major phase of development, with Paga Hill Estate to take major steps in becoming PNG’s first true worldclass tourism and business hub.
The project continues to make progressive transformation backed by the Marape-Rosso Government, the multi-billion-kina project has positioned itself as Papua New Guinea’s flagship SEZ, driving investment, job creation, and economic diversification. PNG has traditionally been heavily reliant on strong commodity export prices for economic prosperity, and the SEZ policy is about establishing industries that diversify PNG’s economy, with Paga Hill Estate primarily focused on tourism.
Paga Hill Development Company (PHDC) is leading the charge with Paga Hill Estate, ensuring the project meets stringent SEZ key performance indicators (KPIs) while attracting foreign and local investment. Since its designation as a SEZ, Paga Hill Estate has emerged as one of PNG’s most dynamic development projects which covers 25 hectares adjoining downtown Port Moresby.
SEZs in PNG are subject to rigorous performance standards, with license holders given 12 months to
meet key KPIs or risk having their licenses revoked or suspended.
SEZ Authority Board Chairman Dr Lawrence Sause emphasised the importance of a SEZ delivering on its forecast goals as core requirements for maintaining SEZ status.
“Each SEZ is selected for its potential to deliver sustained economic diversification. For Paga Hill Estate, this is primarily through tourism, but it also aims to establish Port Moresby as regional hub for finance and trade.” Dr Sause said.
SEZ incentives are time-bound, with the intent they establish new industries and competitive advantages for PNG that are self-sustaining and lasting. Paga Hill Estate’s primary focus is tourism, delivering major tourism infrastructure with the likes of Radisson, but the project’s impact is expected to be even broader.
International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru has emphasised that SEZs are set to become economic drivers for PNG. The government encourages foreign investors to collaborate with local businesses and landowners, ensuring sustainable development.
SEZ incentive tax and other concessions extend to purchasers and tenants of completed development.
Local and international organisations will therefore financially benefit from relocating to Paga Hill Estate. In its transformative vision for the city, a vibrant new downtown is envisaged that improves the visitor experience to Port Moresby, as well as the daily lives of residents and workers.
“Paga Hill Estate is about announcing to the region that we are open for business and we welcome your investment. Our SEZ incentives will reward those organisations who relocate to Paga Hill and is part of our goal to establish the city as the region’s new leader in finance and trade.” said Minister Maru.
Paga Hill Estate is Port Moresby’s first officially designated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and holds License Number One, according to Paga Hill Estate Chairman Peter Barge. Speaking at the PNG-Asia Investment Conference in Hong Kong on October 17, 2023, Barge outlined the ambitious vision for Paga Hill Estate, stating that it would give Port Moresby a new identity and announce PNG’s arrival to the world.
The 25 hectare development is set to reshape Port Moresby’s skyline, featuring:
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• 500,000 square meters of built infrastructure,
• 13,000 square meters of green and open spaces,
• Cultural and tourism attractions designed to enhance visitor experiences.
Barge emphasised that Paga Hill Estate would have an even greater impact on Port Moresby, doubling the size of the Central Business District (CBD) and offering much needed office, retail, and residential space.
With only 3% of PNG’s land available for development, Paga Hill Estate is a critical solution to the nation’s real estate constraints, accommodating the growing demand for commercial and residential space from multinational companies, embassies, and expatriates.
On December 19, 2023, Paga Hill Estate and Radisson Hotel Group officially announced their partnership to develop a Radisson Blu-branded hotel at Paga Hill.
The luxury hotel will feature:
• 229 hotel rooms and 20 luxury villas with access to exclusive amenities.
• Infinity pools, restaurants, bars, executive lounges, a gym, and a health spa.
• Port Moresby’s largest conference and event facility, with panoramic views of the harbor.
• Long-stay apartments and boutique retail outlets.
According to Radisson Hotel Group’s Managing Director for Australasia, Lachlan Hoswell, the project aligns with PNG’s growing economy and increasing corporate and leisure tourism demand.
PHDC is pursuing the Radisson Blu as part of a broader precinct atop Paga Hill that features a range of residential elements. These include villas and a range of apartment types, with all benefiting from access to the Radisson’s amenities and services.
Radisson and PHDC are working with international and local financial institutions to working with international and local financial institutions to package the Radisson
precinct as an investable product. Speaking on the matter to PNG Business News, PHDC Managing Director Gudmundur Fridriksson said “bringing Radisson to Paga Hill is a major coup for PNG tourism, and the design is something we’re extremely proud of. We see it becoming a new icon of Port Moresby, something everyone will be proud of, and the ability for mums & dads to invest gives everyone a chance be part of the city’s transformation and share in its benefits”.
Following the Radisson Blu announcement, PHDC broke ground on October 11, 2024, for the construction of a satellite casino at Paga Hill’s waterfront. The casino is expected to:
• Boost international tourism and prolong visitor stays.
• Stimulate the local economy by creating demand for year-round entertainment.
• Provide insight into market demand, informing plans for a permanent casino.
PHDC will not be involved in the casino itself. The land and licence are being transferred to specialist investors who are currently negotiating with a suitably credentialled and experienced casino operator, with an opening expected in the third quarter (Q3) of 2025. The scale of the eventual permanent casino will be informed by the Satellite Casino’s market response.
The Marape Government has approved a monumental contribution to the city’s public infrastructure. Spanning the entire 1.2-kilometre foreshore perimeter from APEC Haus and around Paga Hill Estate, a community-oriented foreshore promenade will be constructed, with Stage 1 expected to be delivered ahead of PNG’s 50th anniversary of Independence this September.
In an extension of Paga Hill Estate’s vision of a transformed capital city, the community-oriented design features a range of green and open space, public amenities, entertainment and recreation opportunities, commercial venues
and social gathering spaces. Stage 1 primarily focuses on the area between APEC Haus and Paga Hill Estate, establishing a public beach, mangrove revegetation and boarded walkway, restaurant & bar, lookout and playground as it pans around to Paga Hill Estate.
The Government is eyeing a once-in-generation opportunity in delivering Stage 1 ahead of the nation’s 50th anniversary of Independence – with international dignitaries set to be present in the nation’s capital, with special guests, international media and world’s eyes upon us, the foreshore development provides an opportunity to showcase PNG’s progress, demonstrating PNG is a progressive nation and is well on its way to becoming a regional force in finance, trade and tourism.
PHDC is contributing land, development expertise and capability, with construction on Stage 1 about to commence. Subsequent stages will continue the promenade as it wraps around Paga Hill, developing a variety of public infrastructure that activates the foreshore and establishes a vibrant new focal point for the city.
Modelled after Singapore’s casino regulations, the Paga Hill casino will primarily target foreign nationals, with entry restrictions and high fees for PNG locals.
Additionally, 30% of all gaming revenue will go to the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), supporting community programs, churches, and social initiatives.
PHDC is transferring the satellite casino site and licence to specialist investors, who are in the process of selecting a global casino operator to manage the facility, ensuring it meets international standards and operates responsibly within PNG’s regulatory framework.
As a flagship SEZ, Paga Hill Estate benefits from significant government incentives, including:
• Customs duty and GST exemptions during construction.
• Expedited approvals for develop -
ment projects.
• Corporate tax exemptions for commercial tenants.
• Accelerated depreciation benefits for investors.
These incentives enhance profitability for investors and reduce construction costs, making Paga Hill Estate a highly attractive investment destination. Importantly, these incentives also extend to purchasers and tenants of completed development. In this way, operators of the likes of hospitality businesses, as well as commercial office tenants are all incentivised to relocate, supporting the SEZ’s goals of establishing a new regional hub of finance & trade.
The government is committed to improving infrastructure to support the SEZ, with:
• Road expansions enhancing accessibility to Paga Hill.
• Upgraded utilities, including reliable power, water, and telecommunications.
• New public amenities, such as
parks, waterfront promenades, and cultural spaces.
Under PNG’s strict SEZ regulations, license holders must meet their KPIs within 12 months or face license suspension or revocation.
Paga Hill Estate remains the leading SEZ, with continuous progress on:
• Job creation in construction, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
• Infrastructure completion for tourism, commercial, and residential developments.
• Investment attraction, with global brands like Radisson Blu committing to long-term projects.
According to International Trade & Investment Minister Richard Maru, the project represents the future of Port Moresby, offering a diverse and sustainable economic foundation beyond PNG’s traditional resource sectors.
Paga Hill Estate is expected to reshape Port Moresby’s economic landscape and PNG’s profile on the global stage.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea’s economy is set to continue its strong recovery in 2025, fueled by robust resource exports, a record trade surplus, and solid government spending, according to the latest PNG Westpac Wailis, a quarterly economic update providing in-depth insights into the country’s economy.
However, economic challenges remain, including persistent inflation, currency depreciation, and global trade uncertainties.
The National Statistical Office (NSO) revised PNG’s 2023 GDP growth from 3.0% to 3.8%, reflecting stronger-than-expected performance in crude oil and natural gas production. This revision has led to an upward adjustment in 2024 GDP growth to 4.3% from the previous estimate of 3.7%. For 2025, GDP is forecast to grow by 4.7%, slightly lower than the earlier 5.1% projection due to base effects.
Data from Westpac’s forecast highlights the growth trends across primary, industrial, and service sectors:
• Mining & Quarrying: After recovering from a -11.6% contraction in 2021, the sector grew 5.1% in 2022
and is projected to expand by 3.6% in 2025.
• Construction: Buoyed by resource projects, the sector recorded 13.4% growth in 2022 and is expected to maintain momentum with a 5.0% expansion in 2025.
• Telecommunications & ICT: One of the fastest-growing sectors, increasing by 15.5% in 2023, is set to continue double-digit growth as Vodafone and Starlink expand services.
• Wholesale & Retail Trade: Forecast to grow 3.8% in 2025, reflecting higher consumer spending due to government expenditure and trade sector expansion.
PERSIST ACROSS REGIONS
PNG continues to battle persistent underlying inflation, which reached 5.4%-year pace in the December 2024 quarter, up from 4.4% in September 2024. Headline inflation was just 0.7% in the year due to falling betal nut prices. The underlying inflationary pressure largely stem from increases in:
• Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco (+6.4% year and +21.5% year respectively)
• Transportation (+3.5%), with fuel prices being year volatile lifting 20.3% in the year to the June quar -
ter before dropping 7.1% in the year to December.
• Food & Beverages (+4.8% year), with cereal prices up 6.8% and dairy products rising by 5.0% in the year to December.
Inflation has varied significantly across PNG’s regions:
• Goroka, Hagen and Madang recorded the highest inflation at 7.2% in the year to December, more than double the national average.
• Lae experienced deflation (-4.3% year), continuing a downward trend from -6.3% in the year to September 2024.
• Port Moresby saw almost stable prices at 0.5% in the year to December, demonstrating less price volatility than other provinces.
PNG’s trade balance reached an alltime high, with merchandise exports rising by 10% while imports fell by 20% in the first three quarters of 2024.
The September quarter alone recorded a trade surplus of K9.1 billion, driven by gold, copper, and agricultural exports.
Gold exports surged by 47%, reaching K9.2 billion in the first three quarters of 2024, supported by high global gold prices and the reopening of the Porgera mine.
Cocoa and coffee prices hit record levels, but despite strong prices, coffee exports fell by 47% in volume due to declining production by PNG producers.
Furthermore, agricultural exports rose by 13%, boosted by strong cocoa and marine product shipments. LNG exports declined 6% in the first three quarters of 2024 but rebounded in the last quarter, especially with Japan increasing its LNG purchases.
On the import side the 20% drop can be attributed to, at least in part, to foreign exchange shortages making it difficult for businesses to source international products. The largest declines were seen in:
• Food & Live Animal imports (-30%)
• Mineral fuels & lubricants (-37%)
• Manufactured goods (-25%)
Westpac warns that unless foreign exchange liquidity improves, import constraints are likely to persist into 2025 affecting consumer and business supply chains.
The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has decided to keep the Kina Facility Rate (KFR) unchanged at 4.0% following its February Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting. The central bank had previously raised the KFR by one percentage point in September 2024 to curb inflationary pressures amid a sound economic outlook.
With inflation remaining persistently high, analysts anticipate the possibility of further interest rate hikes in the coming months.
The next Monetary Policy Statement, scheduled for release on March 31, will provide an updated assessment of economic conditions, potential interest rate changes, and the overall outlook for the PNG economy.
The Bank of PNG has maintained its strategy of a managed depreciation of the Kina through its “crawling peg” exchange rate system. In December 2024, the Kina weakened from 0.2516 to 0.2500 against the US dollar, followed by further declines to 0.2494 in mid-January and 0.2492 in early February.
The Kina has appreciated against the Australian dollar and Japanese yen due to the strengthening of the US dollar, particularly after Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency. However, this appreciation has increased pressure on the Kina to depreciate further against the greenback.
January saw a notable increase in foreign exchange auction volumes conducted by the central bank, rising to K400 million, up from K259 million in December. This suggests an effort by BPNG to provide liquidity to the market while managing exchange rate fluctuations.
Westpac projects that the Kina will continue its gradual depreciation through the first half of 2025, reaching 0.2402 by mid-year. However, a potential appreciation is expected
Papua New Guinea has long faced significant disruptions due to frequent blackouts and unreliable power supply. These interruptions impact businesses, education, healthcare, and even daily life for many residents. To address these challenges, TE (PNG), in partnership with strategic technology partners, has developed innovative and sustainable solutions. Leveraging Australian-certified manufacturers, TE (PNG) has focused on solutions that are remotely monitored and managed via mobile app. This allows for real-time tracking and historical analysis of power usage and performance. A key feature is the ability to prioritize power sources based on availability and efficiency, ensuring optimal energy utilization. TE (PNG) understands the importance of total cost of ownership and a turnkey approach. By providing comprehensive solutions that are both efficient and cost-effective, the company aims to help Papua New Guinea overcome its power challenges and achieve a more reliable and sustainable energy future
toward the end of 2025 as large-scale resource projects bring in significant foreign exchange inflows.
The bank’s latest forecasts predict the Kina at 0.2450 by March 2025, falling to 0.2405 by mid-year, before stabilizing and strengthening in 2026, reaching 0.2600 by December 2026.
• USD: Expected to depreciate to 0.2405 by June 2025, before stabilizing in late 2025.
• AUD: Kina projected to fluctuate between 0.3879 - 0.4056 in 2025.
• JPY: Kina remains stable, around 37.04-37.98 per 100 JPY.
• Global Risks: US Tariff Threats and Commodity Price Volatility
Westpac highlights that the Trump administration’s new protectionist policies pose risks to global trade.
While PNG’s direct exports to the US are minimal (less than 1% of total exports), the indirect impact on major trading partners (China, Japan, and Australia) could disrupt commodity markets and supply chains.
potentially impacting PNG’s key resource exports.
With economic conditions evolving, stakeholders will closely watch the upcoming March 31 Monetary Policy Statement for further guidance on interest rates, currency stability, and the broader economic outlook for the country.
• Gold prices to remain high at $2,870/oz in Q1 2025 before slightly easing to $2,850/oz by year-end.
• Copper prices to remain above $9,100/t, benefiting PNG’s exports.
• Brent crude oil to average $70-$75 per barrel, with potential fluctuations based on global trade policies and geopolitical events.
Moreover, the 2025 National Budget includes a 5.4% increase in government spending, aimed at boosting economic growth. Key focus areas include:
• Education, Health, and Law & Justice: Increased funding for social sectors.
Government revenue is expected to rise by 10.8% in 2025, supported by strong economic activity and tax collections. However, foreign exchange constraints remain a challenge, impacting the government’s ability to finance essential imports and projects.
Although the country faces challenges in inflation, currency depreciation, and global trade uncertainties, PNG’s economic outlook for 2025 remains positive with strong growth expected in mining, agriculture, telecommunications, and construction.
The trade surplus and strong commodity exports provide a buffer against external shocks, but economic policies must address inflationary pressures and foreign exchange liquidity to ensure sustainable long-term growth, as the report states.
PNG is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory while being aware of global economic uncertainties, with careful economic management and policy interventions.
• Infrastructure & Transport: Reduction in budget allocations, despite the need for improved
The full PNG Westpac Wailis report for February can be excessed via this link - https://www.westpaciq.com.au/ economics/2025/02/png-westpac-wailisfeb2025 on Westpac IQ
By: ROSELYN EREHE
The signing of the K260-million Kimbe Rehabilitation and Upgrade Marine Package contract, awarded to Pacific Marine Group (PMG), was made official on January 16 at the Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) Boardroom in Port Moresby.
Work on the Kimbe Port is expected to commence at the end of the first quarter of 2025 and would be completed within 16 months. The Land Package component of the project is currently under evaluation and will follow soon, proponents said.
Kimbe Port is the first of several ports slated for upgrades under the K1.5-billion blended financial package provided to PNG Ports by the Australian Government through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) in 2022.
The package contract is part of a larger initiative under PNG Ports’ 30-year Master Plan, launched in June 2021, and supported by Australia through a AU$435-million (1.5 billion kina) infrastructure funding package.
PNG Ports Chief Executive Officer, Mr Neil Papenfus, hailed the project as a significant milestone, highlighting its importance for enhancing trade, connectivity, and commercial opportunities for West New Britain Province and Papua New Guinea as a whole.
“We sincerely thank the Australian Government for its financial support, which has made this development possible. We also acknowledge the West New Britain Provincial Government for their partnership in advancing this initiative,” said Mr. Papenfus.
“Kimbe Port is our third-largest port and a priority in our 30-Year Port Infrastructure Master Plan. Located in PNG’s largest producer and exporter of crude palm oil, the port is critical to our economy. This project will bring key benefits, including local job creation and economic engagement.”
“Our ports must remain fit-for-purpose, capable of meeting future business demands, and resilient to climate challenges. This project is an important step in achieving those goals”, he added.
Mr. Papenfus also expressed excitement about collaborating with Pacific Marine Group, a leader in marine contracting and commercial diving with over three decades of experience
across Northern Australia, PNG, and the Pacific region.
“Pacific Marine Group’s expertise will be vital in building reliable and sustainable infrastructure for the province and the nation,” he said.
Mr Papenfus added that the rehabilitation of the port would lead to increased economic activity for Kimbe based businesses over the construction period.
Speaking at the project’s signing, the Managing Director of the Pacific Marine Group, Mr. Terry Dodd, reflected on PMG’s extensive history in PNG, with over 30 years of successful collaboration on infrastructure and maritime projects with major organizations such as Chevron, Oil Search, and Kumul Holdings.
“We’ve worked on a range of projects in PNG, including the sewage outflow in Port Moresby, the Palatau Wharf rebuild, and the Manus Island Wharf and barge ramp rebuild. We’re bringing the same experienced team who completed those projects to lead the Kimberley Wharf rehabilitation,” Mr. Dodd said.
Mr. Dodd emphasized PMG’s commitment to utilizing local talent and resources for their projects in PNG.
“Our focus when working in PNG is to engage as many local contractors and
national staff as possible,” he said. “We also prioritize upskilling and training. The people of PNG are great workers, and we’ve built a strong cohort of employees over the years.”
The company’s approach extends to partnerships with local educational institutions. Mr. Dodd highlighted an ongoing collaboration with the University of Technology (UniTech) in Kimbe, where the company will provide equipment and training.
“In return, UniTech will send trainees to work with us on a rotating basis, allowing us to upskill them directly on the project,” Mr. Dodd noted.
“We’re also proud to have PNG graduate female engineers who have worked with us on past projects. They’ll lead the Kimberley Wharf project as some of the first personnel on-site.”
As the project gears up, Pacific Marine Group has already received overwhelming interest from local workers eager to join the effort.
Mr. Dodd said, “Our interactions with everyone at PNG Ports have been outstanding. We are open to addressing any challenges that may arise to ensure we deliver a high-quality outcome for the Kimberley Port Rehabilitation.”
He acknowledged the weight of expectations but remained confident in the company’s ability to deliver exceptional results.
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“We’re excited and ready to meet the challenge. This is a major project for us, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to achieve a successful outcome.”
Minister for State Enterprises, Hon. William Duma, acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project, highlighting the enduring relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
He witnessed the signing of the project along with the Management of KCHL and the Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency John Feakes, Kimbe Provincial Government, and Project Location Administrative Leaders.
Minister Duma stated: “This for me also demonstrates the never-ending special, very special relationship, mainly based on personal relationships, political considerations of course, and economic relations between our closest neighbour, Australia.”
He lauded the establishment of the Project Management Unit under the AIFLEAD programme, and its role in ensuring transparency and effective utilization of Australian aid.
“We felt that to be able to demonstrate to everyone involved... that we were quite determined and serious about making sure that all those processes that we’re involved in, tendering and selection of successful tenders...
were used and utilised properly.”
The rehabilitation of Kimbe Port is poised to unlock economic potential in Western New Britain, a province the Minister described as a “sleeping giant” with opportunities in agriculture, fisheries, timber, oil palm, and tourism.
He expressed confidence in Pacific Marine Group, stating: “Your company is not new to power, and you’ve got to establish a track record. I do not for one minute doubt that the people who are behind this made a mistake in selecting this group.”
Minister Duma also emphasized the importance of this project as a foundation for future developments in the region, noting that Kimbe Port’s upgrade is part of a broader strategy to enhance PNG’s economic infrastructure.
“Once again, I want to thank the people and Government of Australia for their never-ending help.”
The Australia and PNG Partnership is now bonded with more projects as Australian High Commissioner Feakes announced the AIFFP support for the Kimbe Port upgrade. He said it aligns with PNG’s upcoming 50th anniversary of independence and its vision for longterm resilience.
“I’m delighted to be here to support this contract signing, the starting point for significant upgrades to Kimbe Port.
As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th anniversary, it’s fitting that critical works will be well underway, with
designs tailored to withstand climate challenges for the next 50 years,” he said.
The Kimbe Port initiative marks the first of five major port upgrades in the country backed by Australia. Acknowledging PNG Ports Corporation Limited and its leadership, including Minister Neil, Mr. Feakes expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that brought the project to commence.
The project is expected to generate significant local economic benefits, with up to 300 local jobs created during the construction phase.
“Marine works at Kimbe will involve a workforce made up of 70% locals, and over 30% of project spending will go through Papua New Guinea companies,” Mr. Feakes emphasized.
Landside works will also prioritize local firms, with contracts to be awarded in the coming weeks. Mr. Feakes contrasted this approach with other international development models that often rely on foreign state-owned firms, bypassing local labor and suppliers.
“These outcomes for Papua New Guinea are only possible when high-quality contractors with proven track records, like Pacific Marine Group, deliver works that put Papua New Guinea first,” he said.
The upgrades to Kimbe Port are set to improve maritime connectivity, enhance regional economic integration, and provide skills development opportunities for local workers. This partnership underscores Australia’s dedication to building infrastructure that directly benefits the people of PNG, he said.
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Whilst there is potential for growth and opportunities within Papua New Guinea’s mineral petroleum and energy sectors, security challenges remain a cause for concern, particularly in certain regions of the country.
This is according to the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE), when presenting at the recent Business Council of PNG 2025 Praivet Gavamani Konekt session on protecting PNG businesses.
PNG CORE Manager Policy and Analysis Gretel Orake provided an overview of industry, and its outlook on security, and the efforts industry is taking to deal with them.
“As the peak organization representing the mineral petroleum and energy sectors, we recognize the important role of security in the success of projects. In terms of law & order, for all projects, safe and secure communities translate to safe projects – this relationship is critical for shared success.”
“We note that there have been instances of a breakdown in law & order, which have in turn affected project security in recent times. Much of these have been due to tribal conflicts, landowner disputes, as well as increasing instances of illegal mining. These have all had an effect on projects.”
“As an industry, we remain committed to working with all stakeholders to deal with these challenges, through constant engagement at the community, district, provincial and national levels.”
“Whilst individual projects engage with the respective levels of government where they operate, PNG CORE acknowledges the need for industry to continue engaging in strategic areas.”
“Some of these strategic measures include Community Engagement and Negotiations, Infrastructure and Social Services Restoration, Legal and Policy Advocacy, as well as contributing to the local economy through job creation, local hires, and community development programs.”
“These are just some of the measures taken to support the restoration of law & order, in areas where there have been challenges.”
“We continuously work with stakeholders to ensure that security concerns from our members, are dealt with in a timely manner, so that operations can continue without disruption, and in turn contribute meaningfully to communities where they operate.”
“This is critical, especially as we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary.”
Whilst we’re proud of what we’ve achieved in PNG since 2008, our eyes are still fixed firmly on the future. Our history might talk of our commitment to service and delivery, but it’s our vision that speaks of the potential ahead. Design, Engineering, Fabrication, Installation & Operation
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape recently addressed the annual Back to Business Breakfast, reaffirming his government’s commitment to economic growth, business sector stability, and national security as Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th anniversary of independence.
In his fifth consecutive appearance at the prestigious event, organised by the PNG Business Council, Marape highlighted the nation’s economic trajectory, which has grown from under K80 billion in 2019 to over K122 billion in 2025, despite challenges. He credited the resilience of PNG’s business community, stating, “For the last 49 years, you have stood by us and contributed to the progress of our nation. Your unwavering commitment is invaluable.”
The Prime Minister outlined his vision for PNG’s economy to reach K200 billion soon, emphasising the importance of private sector participation. He underscored ongoing government efforts to streamline regulations, enhance investor confidence, and remove structural impediments to business growth.
“We are listening,” he assured the business community.
“The government does not claim to know everything. Your input is essential in shaping policies that foster business expansion, drive innovation, and create employment.”
To support local enterprises, the Prime Minister commended the contributions of Kina Bank, Bank South Pa-
cific, National Development Bank, and other financial institutions in facilitating SME growth. He noted that over K552 million in loans had been provided to SMEs, with 3,851 new businesses supported in the past year alone.
Addressing the theme of the breakfast, “Securing Papua New Guinea,” Marape reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to law and order, with a record K703 million allocated to police modernisation in 2024.
“Our police force has faced challenges, but we are implementing critical reforms to ensure stability and security,” he said. Key initiatives include:
• Increasing police personnel to 10,000 by 2030.
• Establishing a 200-man anti-terrorism task force.
• Strengthening partnerships with Australia under the PNG-Australia Bilateral Security Agreement.
• Launching the Safe City initiative in Port Moresby and Lae to enhance public safety and business confidence. He also emphasised PNG’s robust judiciary, stating, “A strong, independent judicial system is essential for business confidence. Our reforms will enhance efficiency and ensure legal security for investors.”
The Prime Minister provided updates on major resource projects, including the P’nyang LNG, Papua LNG, and Pasca LNG projects, all of which will drive economic expansion over the next decade. He also highlighted the government’s focus on non-resource
sectors, particularly agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing, to diversify the economy.
“We are modernising our economy, with a strong push toward import replacement and value- added industries,” he stated. Initiatives include:
• The introduction of a “Fish Domestication Policy” to encourage local processing.
• A transition to processed timber exports, phasing out raw log exports.
• Expansion of the NRL investment to stimulate business activity.
• Ongoing discussions to facilitate Kina-Renminbi convertibility, easing trade with China.
The Prime Minister concluded his address by urging businesses to partner with the government in achieving PNG’s economic ambitions. “Together, we can build a stronger PNG. A thriving private sector means a thriving nation,” he said.
He called for continued engagement between the government and business community, inviting industry leaders to participate in regulatory reviews and policy discussions. “We want PNG to be a land of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity,” he affirmed.
As PNG approaches its 50th independence anniversary, Marape said the government remains steadfast in its commitment to economic modernisation, investment promotion, and security enhancement— laying the foundation for a stronger, safer, and more prosperous nation.
By: ROBINA HAPO
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, the European Union (EU) has signed two new Human Rights thematic grant contracts to support women’s economic empowerment in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The initiative aligns with the United Nations’ global theme, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” which aims to accelerate action toward gender equality.
The EU’s Roadmap for Women’s Rights serves as a strategic framework to combat gender-based violence, protect women’s and girls’ rights, and create equal opportunities in all sectors of society.
As part of this commitment, the EU exclusively funds PNG Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to drive human rights and democracy, enhance economic participation, and support policy changes that promote equality.
Following a Call for Proposals in 2024, which focused on removing economic barriers for women and marginalized groups, the EU Delegation has awarded two key projects:
• World Vision PNG – Receiving a 3.5-million-kina (€818,750) grant, this project, titled “Sapotim Strongpla Meri: Empowering AROB Women in Business” will assist 150 women entrepreneurs in Bougainville by enhancing their skills, knowledge, and access to market systems.
• Specialty Coffee Association of PNG – Also receiving 3.5 million kina, this project will provide women and girls in the specialty coffee sector, particularly in the Highlands, with entrepreneurial training, financial services, and leadership development.
Speaking at the signing event, EU Ambassador Jacques Fradin
praised the strong collaboration between the PNG Government, World Vision, the Specialty Coffee Association, and civil society in championing gender equality and human rights.
The event was attended by the Minister for Security and Bougainville Regional MP, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr, along with representatives from civil society and the media.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, Hon. Kinoka Feo, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to research-driven national development with the launch of the National Research Institute’s (NRI) Corporate Plan 2024-2028 and Revised Strategic Plan 2021-2030 last March 6.
The Corporate Plan is linked to the PNGNRI Strategic Plan 20212030; the MTDP IV 2023-2027 and other relevant Government plans and policies.
Speaking at the launch at Port Moresby, Minister Feo highlighted the vital role of the NRI in shaping evidence-based policies and fostering innovation.
He emphasized that the newly launched Corporate Plan serves as an operational roadmap for the revised Strategic Plan 2021-2030, ensuring the institute’s work aligns with the government’s key policies, including the Medium-Term Development Plan 2023-2027 and Vision 2050.
Describing the Plan as more than just a document, Minister Feo called it a “blueprint and a call to action” for the country’s intellectual and policy development.
He stressed that strategic research and innovation are critical to driving sustainable progress, adding that the Marape-Rosso Government strongly supports the integration of science and technology into national planning.
“This plan is a product of collaboration between government, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders. It is through this unity of purpose that we will achieve our national goals,” he said.
Minister Feo commended the NRI for being the intellectual backbone of policymaking in Papua New Guinea. He acknowledged the importance of research in addressing emerging global challenges, noting that in an era of rapid technological advancements, think tanks like the NRI play a crucial role in bridging academic research with practical governance.
“You, the researchers and staff,
are not just scholars, you are architects of national strategy. This plan embodies our commitment to turning knowledge into action, ensuring that evidence-based solutions drive our nation’s progress,” he said.
Attendees included the Council Members of the National Research Institute, Director of the National Research Institute, distinguished guests, management and staff of NRI, researchers, and members of the Council.
NRI Director Dr Osborne Sanida explained that the Institute has a motto of, “Inquire, Inform, Influence”, which is applicable across all research programs and non-research functions to ensure that it is the vision and underlying motto across its work.
The Corporate Plan is implemented through the development of Annual Work Plans, subject to financial and human resource constraints for each year. It covers the following key areas:
• Mandate and governance of the Institute;
• Vision, mission and core principles;
• Management and operational areas of the Institute;
• Organizational structure;
• Research protocols and plan alignment;
• Research Division Plan, comprising six research programs
• Plans for cross-cutting initiatives;
• Plans for hosted programs and projects;
• Corporate Services Division Plan, comprising five sections;
• Knowledge Management Division Plan, comprising two sections;
• Plan for capital investments
• Resourcing, assumptions and risk; and
• Strategic Implementation Framework and Monitoring and Evaluation protocols.
“I thank everyone involved in the compilation of this document.
The Corporate Plan would not have been possible without the direction and oversight of the PNGNRI Council and the collective contribution from the Institute’s senior executive management; research program leaders; and CSD and KMD section heads. It is a plan that we can all be proud of as we collectively developed it and now own the document and implement it as a team,” Dr Sanida said.
The Corporate Plan outlines key research priorities that will enhance national competitiveness. Minister Feo stated that expanding research capabilities, fostering interdisciplinary studies, and strengthening collaborative networks will be essential in positioning Papua New Guinea at the forefront of policy innovation.
“Our nation’s most valuable resource is its intellectual capital,” he noted. “From economic policy to social innovation, from technolog -
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea started its countdown for its participation in the Osaka World Expo, which is expected to attract up to 28 million visitors with more than 160 countries already confirming their participation.
Prime Minister James Marape commissioned the launch event for PNG and hosted it along with the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru.
Key government leaders, diplomatic corps, stakeholders and business leaders gathered at the Parliament House State Function Room on March 6 to witness the nation’s preparations to strengthen its international trade, tourism, arts, and culture sectors through this global event.
The Expo, set to commence on April 13 and continue for six months, will offer PNG a platform to display its rich cultural diversity to a global audience. Additionally, it will provide a platform for PNG to engage Japanese businesses and attract investment in key sectors such as technology, energy, and agriculture.
Minister Maru said PNG is ready to participate in the Expo, and after 50 years of bilateral and diplomatic relationship between PNG and Japan, he said it is time “to expand connections.” He expressed his gratitude to the Marape government for accepting Japan’s invitation to participate despite challenges.
“Despite all our critics, there are also a lot of people wondering why we are going to Japan. After 50 years of political and diplomatic relations with Japan, it is time to showcase what we have achieved together as friends and partners,” he said.
The minister emphasized the importance of economic cooperation between the two nations, noting that Japan’s exports to Papua New Guinea amount to approximately $3 billion, while PNG exports just under $500 million worth of goods to Japan.
Maru stressed the need for a more balanced trade relationship and called for stronger market access.
“We do not have a trade and investment agreement with Japan. What do we do with the European Union? We don’t have a policy agreement with Japan. It’s time to ask the question: Why?”
He highlighted Japan’s infrastructure contributions to PNG such as bridges, roads, and volunteer programs, but pointed out the lack of Japanese tourist arrivals in Papua New Guinea.
Maru said that while 300,000 Japanese tourists visit Australia annually, only 293 visited PNG last year. He stressed the need to tap into Japan’s tourism market, comparing figures with destinations such as Fiji, which attracts 20,000 Japanese tourists annually.
Maru acknowledged Japan as a major international investor but lamented that PNG had not fully leveraged this opportunity, citing Japan’s increasing investments in the Philippines and Thailand.
PNG is set to take an unprecedented approach by establishing a presence at both the Osaka Expo site and a dedicated commercial space in Tokyo. Maru explained that the Tokyo venue would be crucial for business engagements, particularly for promoting PNG’s coffee and seafood exports.
“The event should not just be about showcasing products but should lead to tangible economic benefits. We must reset and strengthen our relationship with Japan. This Expo is our opportunity to make a statement and secure a fairer and more equitable trade relationship,” Maru added.
PM Marape, in his keynote address, reiterated the nation’s commitment to strengthening its economic and diplomatic relations with Japan as part of PNG’s participation in the Expo. He outlined the government’s strategic focus on expanding trade, investment, and tourism ties with Japan.
“Through this Expo, we aim to take our partnership to a new level and solidify the economic opportunities between our nations,” he added.
The PNG tourism sector will be showcased with a commitment from the Minister for Art, Culture, and Tourism, Hon. Beldan Namah, that Osaka is a “special ring” for tourism, arts, culture, and international trade.
Namah pointed out that Japan is renowned for promoting indigenous art and culture, making it an ideal
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venue for Papua New Guinea to highlight its diverse traditions and artistic heritage.
Namah noted that Japan’s tourism sector is the 22nd largest in the world but stressed the importance of PNG having direct flight access to Japan to fully tap into this market. He urged the government to consider subsidizing flights between Japan and PNG to facilitate tourism and business exchange.
Namah also acknowledged Ja -
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ical advancement to sustainable development, the NRI will be at the center of strategic thinking.”
The plan also details specific objectives, including:
• Defining critical research priorities,
pan’s contributions to PNG’s infrastructure development, such as the Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport in Morobe Province.
The Minister noted that PNG’s tourism sector aligns with the theme of the Expo, as the event could elevate the country’s profile as a destination for tourists seeking cultural authenticity.
“We are a nation of incredible diversity, with rich traditions, languages, and tourist attractions that deserve to be showcased to the world. This is a pivotal moment for
us to unite and show the world our journey as a nation, particularly in the tourism sector, which has become one of our most promising economic drivers,” Namah said.
“Tourism is at the heart of economic growth. It can be a powerful tool for alleviating the challenges faced by our country, including the current economic situation.
Tourism, arts, and culture, together with international trade, will allow us to showcase the best of Papua New Guinea on the world stage,” he added.
• Developing operational strategies for effective execution.
Minister Feo urged the NRI’s researchers, staff, and council members to embrace the Corporate Plan as a mission statement for national development, noting the institute’s role as a guiding force in policy decisions, using rigorous research to navigate
ful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ Today, we reaffirm our belief in the power of research, the strength of strategic thinking, and our collective ability to shape a brighter future,” he stated.
“Today, we make a commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, the
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By: ROSELYN EREHE
The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of the Konebada Industrial Park project is underway with the establishment of a fabrication and training facility known as the Central Industrial Center, Portion 152.
This project is spearheaded by Kumul Petroleum Limited (KPL) and is expected to create thousands of jobs and significantly boost the country’s manufacturing capabilities in the oil, gas, and mining industries.
The Konebada park, seen as an exciting step into economic, business and human resource development for Papua New Guinea, will be officially announced once completed, KPL said in a statement.
During a recent project-site visit with PNG Business News, KPL Managing Director Wapu Sonk spoke of the project’s vision, emphasizing that PNG must take ownership of its industrial development.
“We saw in the PNG LNG project how foreign workers and prefabricated materials dominated the sector. This time, we are investing in a local fabrication facility to ensure that PNG workers and businesses play a meaningful role in major resource projects,” Sonk said.
The facility will include a steel fabrication plant, where components such as pipes, vessels, and other industrial materials will be manufactured locally.
“We want to fabricate what goes into an LNG plant right here in PNG. But to do that, we need highly skilled people, which is why we are also building a world-class training center,” he added.
Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru commended Kumul Petroleum’s initiative, describing it as a “game-changer” for PNG’s economic future. He stressed the importance of transitioning from reliance on foreign-made components to local manufacturing and workforce development.
“For too long, we have been exporting jobs and importing finished products. This project aligns with the government’s vision to create skilled employment, increase revenue, and position PNG as a competitive industrial hub in the region,” Maru said.
The government has endorsed the
SEZ over the project site, providing tax and duty-free incentives to attract investors in manufacturing, energy, and resource-related industries. A National Executive Council (NEC) submission for the SEZ’s formal approval is currently underway, which Minister Maru has viewed and expressed confidence the project will change the country.
“This SEZ will be structured to make PNG competitive against regional players like Indonesia, the Philippines, and China. When investors come into PNG and we start fabricating steel, we will be producing for the big companies in the oil and gas industry, and we have to be competitive with our pricing,” he said.
“We are dealing with global companies who have been in the industry for a long time, which is why KPHL needs government support to be able to compete on a level playing field with other competitors and attract the business. Our biggest need is to generate revenue and create jobs for the local people which this project will provide,” Maru explained.
“We have a well-educated workforce with strong English proficiency and a lower labor cost, making us an attractive destination for industrial investment,” he added.
Minister Maru said the two declared SEZ include the Paga Hill SEZ in town and the Konebada Petroluem Park at Porebada in Central Province outside of Port Moresby. The project is set up similarly to SEZs in China, Dubai, Japan, and the Philippines.
Maru emphasized the long-term potential of the project, comparing it to industrial hubs in Dubai, China, and Malaysia.
“The vision here is to develop a full-fledged industrial park where companies can manufacture, assemble, and export goods. This is the beginning of a new era for PNG’s industrial sector,” he said, noting that it will consist of the
two projects: a training facility and the fabrication factory.
The training facility aims to upskill workers in specialized construction, mining, and marine industry skills. According to Sonk, the center will initially support 1,000 direct jobs, with numbers expected to rise to 3,000 to 4,000 as the facility expands and operates in multiple shifts.
The broader industrial ecosystem could generate over 10,000 jobs, including indirect employment in supporting services like transport, catering, and logistics, he added.
The project site spans approximately 300 hectares, with 140 hectares reserved for further industrial development. Plans also include a cement batching plant, road upgrades, and a dedicated wharf to facilitate exports and reduce logistics costs.
“We are planning for large-scale manufacturing,” Sonk stated. “The road will be expanded to 14 meters to accommodate heavy loads, and we are considering a rail system to transport fabricated components directly to the wharf.”
Sonk and Maru invited investors to take advantage of the SEZ incentives and be part of PNG’s industrial transformation.
“This project is not just about Kumul Petroleum, it’s about creating an ecosystem where multiple industries can thrive,” Sonk said.
Maru urged PNG’s youth to seize the opportunities offered by the training facility. “We want to train Papua New Guineans to be globally competitive, just like Filipino workers who are sought after worldwide. This is our chance to equip our people with the skills to work on major projects both locally and internationally.”
Additionally, about 20 locations have been identified as potential SEZ in the country with only four expected to be free trade zones.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Tolu Minerals Limited has announced a series of mineral targets at its Tolukuma gold-copper project in Goilala, Central Province of Papua New Guinea, following a detailed Airborne Magneto Telluric (MT) survey covering 714km².
The survey identified a pipeline of high-priority exploration targets, including 38 priority mineral zones, with eight showing high priority, porphyry-style gold-copper geophysical signatures as well as numerous epithermal gold targets.
These discoveries position Tolu Minerals as a key player in what appears will become one of the world’s great gold-copper provinces, the company said in a statement.
The Airborne MT survey, using high-resolution geophysical technology, including ground breaking lineament analysis algorithms, has provided new insights into previously unexplored regions of the Tolukuma area.
The survey results indicate near-surface epithermal gold targets, deep-seated high-sulphide gold-copper lodes, and key feeder zones that may significantly expand the current mine footprint.
Among the notable findings:
• Idave epithermal gold target: This is a new epithermal gold target that emanates from the same deep seated porphyry source, potentially replicating the existing Tolukuma mineralised structures.
• Karame epithermal target: an additional epithermal gold target that appears to also emanate from the same Tolukuma deep seated porphyry source.
• Belavista Porphyry Target: A high priority 4.5km diameter porphyry target with peripheral historical rock chip samples yielding up to 11.61g/t gold and 2800ppm copper, 1.02% lead and 2.63% Zinc.
• The Airborne MT geophysical signatures have similar characteristics to the K92 Kora MT signatures and associated
Inferred Resources of 2.5 moz at 9.5 g/t AuEq. Tolu will fast track its exploration efforts towards a potential new gold-copper discovery.
• Tolukuma Porphyry: A conductivity anomaly extending beyond 1.5km depth, believed to be the heat and gold source for the existing Tolukuma mine as well as the Idave and Karame target areas.
• Mt. Tafa Porphyry: A 2.7km diameter volcanic system with anomalous gold stream sediment samples.
• Hula Porphyry: A significant conductor anomaly suggesting potential copper and base metal sulphides at depth.
Commenting on the discovery, Iain Macpherson, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Tolu Minerals, said: “It is pleasing to see the modelled results from the Tolukuma Airborne MT survey producing a series of epithermal and porphyry mineral targets in previously underexplored areas, both in the mining lease and within our extensive portfolio of exploration licences.”
Macpherson told PNG Business News that the Idave and Karame epithermal gold targets are proximal to the existing mine infrastructure and could readily be exploited by the existing mine, which could have the
impact of extending the scale and/or life of the mine dramatically.
The Airborne MT is proving to be an invaluable tool in defining high-priority targets to a level of detail that was previously not possible and will have a profound effect on Tolu’s exploration and growth strategies.
Numerous additional epithermal vein lineament targets have now been identified. In addition, high-sulphide style gold and base metal vein signatures have been identified beneath the existing mine.
“Tolu has applied for three additional exploration licences covering 258.44 km² over Airborne MT areas of interest, further demonstrating the effectiveness of this geophysical technique in rapidly and cost-effectively identifying areas for priority exploration and discovery of gold and base metal deposits,” Macpherson said.
“Tolu is now positioned as an important explorer and operator in what could be one of the great gold/ copper provinces of the world. Tolu continues to assess these results and is in the process of finalising its exploration strategy and plans to accelerate targeted exploration, both on mine and regionally, to help define substantial gold/silver and gold/copper resources,” he added.
There will be no riverine disposal by the Frieda River Copper-Gold Project (FRCGP).”
This clarification comes from Phil McCormack, Project Director of Frieda River Limited (FRL), a part of PanAust Limited. He made the clarification to help the public understand the design of the proposed copper-gold development.
“Frieda River Copper-Gold Project will not dispose of its waste into the river system. It will protect the Sepik ecosystem at all costs, PanAust does not take lightly its commitment to ensuring the safe design, safe construction, and safe operation of the dam,” McCormick said.
“PanAust is mindful of the ecosystem it is in including its host communities. As a values-driven organisation, it assures its host communities and governments that is committed to sustainably operating
its business in an environmentally, socially, and culturally responsible way for the benefit of all stakeholders.” he stressed.
FRL is proposing to develop one of the world’s largest untapped copper-gold resource in a socially responsible way, through the multi-billion-kina Sepik Development Project (SDP) which includes the building of Frieda River Hydroelectric Project (FRHEP).
The project includes a 191-metre-high asphalt core rockfill dam as an integrated storage facility for the mine waste, and hydro power. The hydro power will be then fed through the Sepik Power Grid Project to ‘light up’ the region and stimulate commerce and industry and generate clean electricity for communities.
The design of the FRHEP dam is in accordance with international standards and uses the internationally recognised and proven dam construction method of asphalt core
rockfill dams.
There are numerous examples of asphalt core rockfill dams currently operating well in other parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, and the Americas, in similar high seismic and rainfall environments as the Sepik region.
“The Sepik Development Project
Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) is pleased to announce its exceptional performance results for 2024, showcasing yet another successful year of disciplined operational and financial excellence.
In 2024, OTML achieved outstanding strong, safe and reliable production results, surpassing set targets for copper, gold, and silver. The company produced 103,246 tonnes of Copper metal, 265,830 ounces of Gold and 993,274 ounces of Silver, showing and reinforcing its turnaround of the business in the last 18 months.
Despite some operational challenges, this success is attributed to the dedication of our workforce, optimized operational efficiency from the pit to the port, and a seamless execution of the major processing plant shutdown earlier in the year.
OTML delivered robust unaudited financial results, reflecting increased metal prices, efficient cost management, and consistent production levels. The company reported a revenue of K5.7 Billion (US$1.5 Billion) contributing significantly to Papua New Guinea’s economy through royalties of K106M, taxes K346M, compensation K119M, training K30M, Tax Credit Scheme K285M, and a total of K450M in dividends for the year 2024.
The company also celebrated 40 years of production since 1984, highlighting its significant contribution to PNG’s economy over the years.
The year 2024 also brought its share of challenges; among the hurdles faced were shipping constraints, such as fuel, concentrate and cargo
shipment issues and evolving operational demands. In addressing the fuel crisis, OTML not only ensured operational continuity but also supported the nation by supplying JET A1 fuel to commercial airlines. Furthermore, as a responsible corporate entity, the company made significant contributions through key donations at both local and national levels, reinforcing its commitment to the community.
Looking ahead, OTML remains steadfast in pursuing its Growth 2050 Strategy, which focuses on long-term sustainability, operational excellence, and community partnerships. Key initiatives include:
• Environmental Stewardship & Sustainable Growth Projects
• Engineered Waste Rock Dump 1 & 2
• Electrical Haul Truck Drive
• Process Asset Renewal (PAR)
• Pyrite Concentrate (PCon) Pit 4 Construction
• Tailings Storage Facility
• Copper Mark Certification
• Electrification & Energy Transition Strategy
• Accessibility to Diesel & Jet A1 Storage & Supply Facilities in the country
OTML’s Managing Director and CEO, Kedi Ilimbit, stated that “2024 has been an extraordinary year of resilience, collaboration, and achievement for Ok Tedi. These results reaffirm our commitment to creating value for all stakeholders, while upholding our responsibilities to the people of Papua New Guinea and future generations. Our focus on sustainable growth under the Growth 2050 framework ensures that we are well-positioned for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”
“Our unwavering commitment to responsible mining practices and sustainable development has delivered outstanding outcomes for stakeholders, employees, and the communities in which we operate,” said Mr Ilimbit.
< Page 56
is owned by PanAust, a high performing Australian based mining company that operates successful mines with waste rock and tailings storage facilities in Laos. We understand the importance of the Sepik ecosystem, where the project
is based, and our work is committed to ensuring the safe design, construction, and operation of the dam for the long-term benefit of all its stakeholders,” emphasised McCormick.
He said the significant lack of public infrastructure and services in the far-to-reach villages of the Sepik region was the reason for
PanAust’s non-traditional mining approach to the Frieda River copper-gold resource.
“It is a transformative approach to the project for the Sepik region and Papua New Guinea, aimed at protecting the environment while enhancing living standards, and general well-being in the remote Sepik communities,” he said.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Tolu Minerals Limited is set to resume high-grade gold and silver production at the Tolukuma Gold Mine, located in Goilala District in Central Province, as it commenced final hot commissioning of its newly installed modular gravity recovery plant, with full production and revenue generation expected upon completion.
In a statement dated February 27, Tolu Minerals revealed that the plant installation and cold commissioning were successfully completed in December 2024.
The plant, designed in collaboration with South Africa’s Appropriate Process Technologies (APT), leverages advanced gravity concentration technology to optimize efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Managing Director and CEO Iain Macpherson described the hot commissioning phase as a “major milestone” for the company, the mining sector, and the region.
The modular plant will play a pivotal role in restarting operations at Tolukuma, targeting an initial production rate of approximately 2,000 ounces of gold per month by the end of 2025.
“The plant throughput and modular expansion capability are designed to match the mine’s production ramp-up schedule while enabling lower operating costs. Not only will it generate revenue, but it will also enable testing of more effective processing, including enhanced silver recovery,” Macpherson stated.
The commissioning process, which is expected to take at least 15 days, involves running ore through the plant to evaluate material flow, plant functionality, and processing efficiency.
The process is being closely monitored by Mines Inspectorate representatives and APT commissioning engineers.
A key feature of the plant is its innovative approach to tailings management. The company is utilizing geotube tailings decant systems, which facilitate safe and efficient water decanting and provide insights into potential long-term tailings storage solutions. This method enhances environmental sustainability while ensuring regulatory compliance, Tolu said.
The tailings from the gravity recovery plant, which still contain residual gold, will be stockpiled for future reprocessing once the existing leaching plant is re-commissioned.
The new plant consists of five processing stages: scrubber, crushing, hammer milling,
gravity centrifugal concentration, tabling and smelting. It currently operates at a capacity of six tonnes per hour (tph), approximately 25% of the mine’s previous capacity, with a phased ramp-up planned as production resumes.
To ensure smooth operations, Tolu Minerals is conducting staff training alongside commissioning activities. Management, operators, and maintenance personnel are
receiving hands-on instruction from the experienced commissioning team.
The re-commissioning of the Tolukuma mine marks a revival of one of Papua New Guinea’s historically significant gold producers. The mine, known for its high-grade gold and silver deposits, had previously been a key contributor to the country’s mineral sector.
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By: ROSELYN EREHE
K92 Mining Inc. has announced the latest results from its ongoing maiden surface diamond drill program at the Arakompa prospect in Papua New Guinea.
In a statement, the company said the drilling confirmed two significant high-grade gold veins, AR1 and AR2, along with extensions of a bulk tonnage zone, reinforcing the area’s potential for both underground and open-pit mining.
Arakompa, located 4.5 kilometers from the Kainantu Gold Mine process plant, has not been drilled in over three decades. K92 Mining has completed 43 holes to date, significantly expanding knowledge of the mineralized system. The latest drill results continue to highlight Arakompa’s strong gold potential the company said.
CEO and Director John Lewins said: “The Arakompa maiden drill program continues to make significant progress, with the latest results delivering multiple positives, including a 20% increase in bulk zone strike length to approximately 900 meters, and the delineation of two major subparallel veins over significant strike, AR1 and AR2.”
The AR1 and AR2 veins have been defined to depths exceeding 500 meters, with strike lengths of approximately 675 meters and 775 meters, respectively. Both veins remain open in multiple directions, demonstrating continuity and strong gold grades, K92 said.
Recent drilling, it said, yielded notable high-grade gold intercepts:
KARDD0033: 11.10 meters at 5.93 g/t AuEq (5.37 g/t Au, 8 g/t Ag, 0.29% Cu), including 3.30 meters at 11.15 g/t AuEq (10.92 g/t Au, 3 g/t Ag, 0.12% Cu). KARDD0035: 11.10 meters at 4.93 g/t AuEq (4.50 g/t Au, 10 g/t Ag, 0.19% Cu), including 1.70 meters at 13.04 g/t AuEq (12.55 g/t Au, 15 g/t Ag, 0.19% Cu). KARDD0042: 2.60 meters at 11.91 g/t AuEq (9.06 g/t Au, 41 g/t Ag, 1.48% Cu).
KARDD0038: 14.50 meters at 17.33 g/t AuEq (17.17 g/t Au, 4 g/t Ag, 0.07% Cu), including 6.90 meters at 34.99 g/t AuEq (34.73 g/t Au, 7 g/t Ag, 0.11% Cu). KARDD0044: 12.00 meters at 5.26 g/t AuEq (5.18 g/t Au, 2 g/t Ag, 0.03% Cu), including 3.40 meters at 10.01 g/t AuEq (9.91 g/t Au, 2 g/t Ag, 0.05% Cu).
Lewins emphasized the significance of these results. “Both AR1 and AR2 are high-grade and have recorded considerable thickness and strong observed continuity, demonstrating high potential for underground mining.”
BULK ZONE EXPANSION ENHANCES OPEN-PIT POTENTIAL
K92 has also extended the interpreted bulk tonnage zone by 150 meters to
the south, bringing the total defined strike length to 900 meters and a vertical depth of 650 meters. This zone has an average true thickness of 48 meters, reinforcing its potential for large-scale mining.
KARDD0038: 65.00 meters at 4.15 g/t
AuEq (4.04 g/t Au, 3 g/t Ag, 0.05% Cu).
KARDD0035: 85.30 meters at 1.19 g/t AuEq (1.00 g/t Au, 4 g/t Ag, 0.08% Cu), including 29.90 meters at 2.49 g/t
AuEq (2.09 g/t Au, 7 g/t Ag, 0.20% Cu).
KARDD0042: 50.40 meters at 1.90 g/t
AuEq (1.58 g/t Au, 6 g/t Ag, 0.15% Cu).
Path Forward: Expanded Drilling and Resource Estimate
With only about half of the 1.7-kilometer-long mineralized corridor drill tested so far, K92 sees significant ex-
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By: ROSELYN EREHE
K92 Mining Ltd. has announced a series of leadership changes and highlighted the significant contributions of Dr. Chris Muller and Dr. Mark Schubert, both of whom have played instrumental roles in the company’s achievements.
Dr. Chris Muller, who joined K92 in 2016, most recently served as the Executive Vice President – Exploration. Dr. Muller was a member of the team in the discovery of Kora North, a significant achievement recognized with the 2021 Thayer Lindsley Award for Best Global Discovery from the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada.
His efforts also led to the discovery of the Blue Lake porphyry, which in 2022 delivered a maiden 10.8 million ounces of gold equivalent (AuEq) in inferred resources.
Reflecting on Muller’s contributions, K92 CEO and Director John Lewins said, “I want to express my gratitude to Chris Muller for his very significant contribution to our exploration success.”
The company extended its best wishes to Dr. Muller in his future endeavors.
Dr. Schubert, who joined K92 in 2019 as General Manager, External Affairs and Sustainable Development, has announced his retirement. He spearheaded engagement efforts and sustainable development programs with local communities, earning K92 Mining multiple ESG Industry Awards from the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy. These awards include:
The 2024 Award in Recognition of Outstanding Community Humanitarian Initiative for the Sustainable Livelihoods Agricultural Program.
The 2023 Award in Recognition of Outstanding Community Humanitarian Initiative for the Women-in-Mining Program, which focused on empowerment initiatives such as upskilling and preventative healthcare.
The 2022 Award for Outstanding Women’s Contribution in the Resources Industry for the Women-in-Mining Program, particularly its adult literacy efforts.
Recognizing Dr. Schubert’s achievements, John Lewins said: “While Mark Schubert will still be with us for some months, I would also like to recognize his exceptional contribution and initiatives within our local communities. We wish him well in his well-deserved retirement.”
As part of its ongoing operations, K92 Mining has made new leadership appointments. Heidi Grobler, who has been with the company for over three years, has been promoted to a leadership role as Vice President Human Resources.
Lewins commended her performance, stating: “Over the past three years, Heidi Grobler has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, resourcefulness, and the ability to excel in many roles, making her a natural fit for this promotion.”
Additionally, the company welcomed Stanley Komunt, who brings extensive expertise in community and
government relations in PNG, having worked with Newcrest and Newmont. Lewins expressed enthusiasm about his appointment, highlighting Komunt’s contributions to the team.
To ensure continuity in exploration leadership, Andrew Kohler will serve as Interim Vice President, Exploration. Kohler has been with K92 for over eight years, making significant contributions to the company.
Lewins said: “We are well-positioned to ensure continuity and leadership during this transitional period while we evaluate the long-term needs of the role.”
Lewins emphasized K92’s commitment to growth and innovation, saying: “As K92 Mining continues to grow and evolve, the leadership changes announced today reflect our firm commitment to building a strong, dynamic team capable of driving our success well into the future.”
“Congratulations to Heidi, Stanley, and Andrew on their appointments, and I look forward to their continued contributions as we build on our achievements and pursue the exciting opportunities ahead.”
< Page 62
ploration upside. The company plans to deploy a new compact heli-portable drill rig by mid-2025 to explore northern extensions of Arakompa.
“We believe that we are only beginning to unlock Arakompa’s full potential,” said Lewins. “A new drill rig will allow us to efficiently target the northern extension, effectively opening up a new front for exploration.”
K92 aims to complete its maiden mineral resource estimate for Arakom-
pa by mid-2025, which will provide further clarity on the project’s scale and economic viability.
Arakompa is interpreted as an intrusive-related gold-copper-silver epithermal vein system, similar to the producing Kora and Judd vein systems. However, unlike Kora and Judd, which are hosted in metasediments, Arakompa is hosted in tonalite and diorite rocks, K92 said.
Gold mineralization at Arakompa occurs in both high-grade vein lodes and a broader alteration envelope, suggesting bulk mining potential. The presence of porphyry-related alteration minerals and high-grade quartz-sulfide veins indicates a strong magmatic influence on gold deposition, it added.
Lewins said: “With a combination of high-grade veins, bulk mining potential, and strong geological continuity, Arakompa is shaping up as an exciting extension to our Kainantu operations.”
K92 Mining Inc. has released an update regarding its operations and strategic plans for the future with its 2025 Operational Outlook, which outlines another record year of production plus major capital investment and investment in exploration.
John Lewins, Chief Executive Officer and Director of K92 Mining, expressed his optimism and enthusiasm for the company’s trajectory in 2025 and beyond.
“There is tremendous enthusiasm internally, among our various stakeholders including in Papua New Guinea for the year ahead, as K92 transforms into a Tier 1 Mid-Tier Producer with the delivery of the Stage 3 Expansion,” he said.
A key milestone in this “transformative” journey is the scheduled commissioning of the Stage 3 Expansion process plant in the latter half of the second quarter of 2025, the company said.
This development represents a sig-
nificant leap in K92’s throughput and production capacity, showing a stepchange in operational capabilities.
A significant investment in the expansions has already been made.
At the end of 2024, 70% of the capital required for the Stage 3 and Stage 4 expansions will have been spent or committed, it added.
Additionally, K92 Mining’s cash reserves have reached record highs, assuring funding for the remaining capital investment to complete the expansions, driven by two consecutive quarters of record gold production in a record gold price environment.
Strengthening the company’s financial position are $60 million in undrawn credit facilities, which include an accordion feature to increase capacity by an additional $30 million with Trafigura.
To mitigate commodity price risks, K92 has secured gold put contracts providing insurance against potential price downturns until mid-2025 while it completes this major investment.
The company also reiterated its commitment to exploration with yet another year of major exploration investment, with plans to significantly increase it upon delivery of the Stage 3 Expansion.
Lewins stated: “During this major production growth period, we plan to continue to invest heavily in exploration and significantly ramp up our exploration activities.”
K92 Mining’s exploration portfolio includes promising deposits such as Arakompa, Maniape, Kora-Kora South, and Judd-Judd South, and emerging targets like Mati, Mesoan, and Bona Creek.
Additionally, the company continues to advance its porphyry prospects, particularly Blue Lake and A1.
“We believe we control a significant and well-endowed mineral district that we are just scratching the surface of. We look forward to providing updates in due course,” Lewins said.
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By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea’s mining sector is set for significant advancement as Mayur Resources Limited recently secured a substantial capital injection to propel the Central Lime Project (CLP) forward.
The latest AU$100 million (PGK 250 million) equity raise by Mayur signals strong investor confidence and underscores the Marape-Rosso Government’s vision for value-added resource development within PNG, the company said.
Mining Minister Hon. Wake Goi commented on this project’s success, emphasizing the government’s proactive role in facilitating its progress. With the commitment of the government, the developer and stakeholders, efforts are underway to finalize all requisite approvals and agreements, including the Community Development Agreement, he noted.
This initiative “aligns seamlessly with the government and administration’s strategy” to establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs) that foster industrialization, generate employment, and ensure long-term economic sustainability, MP Goi added.
Backed by Tier 1 Australian investment bank Barrenjoey, funds from all over the globe came in to participate
in the equity raise, Mayur said in a statement.
This financing will fast-track the CLP, PNG’s first greenfield project that will commence construction 18 years since the last greenfield operations in Ramu Nico and Simberi.
The project diversifies the mining space by downstream processes, adding value to new products to be manufactured -- quicklime, clinker, and cement. This reduces reliance on higher-cost imports and supports industries such as mining, construction, and public works, and adds long-term jobs, the government said.
First production is anticipated to commence 18 months post financial close, Mayur said.
The CLP, strategically located within Mayur’s Single Factory Special Economic Zone in Port Moresby’s North-Western Growth Corridor, is set to become PNG’s inaugural industrial downstream manufacturing processing hub.
Minister Goi said the government is actively supporting landowner participation, ensuring that local communities are integrally involved during the construction and operational phases of the project. He noted ongoing discussions with local miners to position them as primary customers for quicklime.
Additionally, government entities such as PNG Water and Public Works are exploring opportunities to source supplies from the CLP, aiming to replace imports entirely. This approach retains manufacturing employment benefits within PNG and also paves the way for more affordable cement production in subsequent phases, MP Goi added.
Plans are being examined to establish a PNG Cement Corporation, which would further process raw materials within the SEZ to produce building materials like bricks, pavers, pipes, and culverts. Surplus production is envisioned for export to markets such as Australia, increasing revenue streams.
“As PNG approaches its 50th anniversary of independence, initiatives like the CLP signify a transformative shift towards domestic processing of raw resources. This strategy aims to strengthen local industries, reduce reliance on imports, and secure sustainable economic benefits,” Goi noted.
The government’s endorsement of this substantial capital raise reflects a broader policy of resource-driven industrialization, ensuring that PNG’s abundant natural resources are harnessed for longer terms and benefits, he added.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Mining, Hon. Wake Goi, has commended the progress of Phase 2 construction at the Central Cement and Lime Project’s wharf in Kido, Central Province of Papua New Guinea calling it “a significant step toward economic diversification and industrial self-sufficiency.”
Minister Goi visited the project site alongside the Member for Kairuku-Hiri, Hon. Keith Iduhu, on January 27 to assess developments at the country’s first new greenfield mining venture in 16 years.
The project, owned by Mayur Resources Limited, is expected to play a key role in reducing Papua New Guinea’s reliance on imported building materials by locally producing quick lime, clinker, and cement.
Minister Goi said, “The Central Cement and Lime Project is not just a testament to our nation’s diverse rich mineral resources but also a beacon of our strategic vision to harness these assets for sustainable development.”
“The production of quick lime and clinker/cement will be pivotal in supporting nation building infrastructure projects across Papua New Guinea with its own manufactured building materials, thereby reducing our reliance on imports and fostering self-sufficiency.”
The Marape-Rosso government has consistently advocated value-added processing in the mining sector, aiming to transform the country’s rich natural resources into economic opportunities, MP Goi said.
Prime Minister James Marape has reinforced this vision, stating: “We must capitalize on the vast natural resources and convert those into real development outcomes which will grow our economy and make us self-sustaining.”
A key factor in the project’s success has been the implementation of Special Economic Zone (SEZ) fiscal policies, designed to attract foreign direct investment by creating a competitive business environment, the government said.
Minister Goi noted, “Our government’s SEZ fiscal policies are crafted
to create an investor-friendly environment. The progress we witness today— turning the rock in our ground into the products that build our roads—is a direct result of these policies, reflecting the confidence foreign direct investors have in Papua New Guinea’s economic potential.”
such projects underscore the indus
trious approach I expect myself to perform against in this role, advancing Papua New Guinea’s mining sector.”
As construction continues, MP Goi said the government remains committed to ensuring that the project delivers widespread benefits, including job creation, economic growth, and
The PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE), in collaboration with the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), participated in the 2025 Prospectors & Developers’ Association of Canada (PDAC) convention, held in Toronto, Canada, from March 2-5.
PDAC is the world’s largest mining conference, attracting over 27,000 delegates and featuring more than 1,100 exhibition booths.
The combined booth of MRA and PNG CORE was supported by expert geologists and industry executives who spent three and a half intense days engaging with the international investment community. They addressed concerns and attracted significant investment interest to Papua New Guinea.
PNG CORE is grateful for the participation of the Minister for Mining, Hon. Wake Goi (MP), and the
Assistant Minister for Mining, who attended and participated in several government-to-government meetings, fostering mutually beneficial interests between respective countries.
“While it is impressive to attend the world’s largest mining conference, I realise that the PNG Investment Week offers more engagement, networking, and relationship-building opportunities. This sentiment was shared by other participants who attended both events,” said PNG CORE Events Chair and Councillor Mark McMonagle.
“We believe that many of these investors may attend the PNG Investment Week in Sydney in December this year to further explore their interest in investing in the PNG mining sector or servicing the mining sectors.”
The industry acknowledges the challenges faced in recent years,
including a decline in exploration activities and concerns over the depletion of mineral resources. These issues highlight the importance of attracting new investments and revitalising interest in PNG’s mining sector. PNG CORE recognises the value of industry working closely with the government to address these challenges. Collaborative efforts are essential to overcoming obstacles and ensuring the sustainable development of the mining sector.
PNG CORE’s participation in PDAC aligns with its strategic direction to promote investment through events, knowledge sharing, and convening. This initiative demonstrates the collaborative efforts of MRA and PNG CORE to show investors worldwide that industry and government are working together to promote the industry for the benefit of PNG’s people and its investors.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape reinforced his government’s commitment to securing a fair and beneficial agreement for Papua New Guinea in the development of the Wafi-Golpu mine.
Marape also confirmed that he aims to finalise the Wafi-Golpu agreement by 16 September 2025, in time for PNG’s 50th Independence celebrations, alongside other major projects.
Addressing Parliament in late March, the Prime Minister updated lawmakers on the status of negotiations, confirming that only three key issues are left to resolve for the project.
The Mine Development Contract (MDC), a crucial agreement that determines the state’s benefit share, must be concluded before the Special Mining Lease (SML) is granted, Marape noted.
The Prime Minister emphasised that since his administration took office, every major resource project negotiation “has been driven by the principle that PNG beneficiaries must receive at least 55% of total benefits, ensuring greater economic returns to the state, landowners, and local businesses.”
He explained that the negotiations with investors, particularly Harmony Gold and Newmont, have been detailed and, at times, challenging.
While the investors seek to protect their financial interests, the government remains determined to ensure that PNG secures a fair deal over the expected 40-year lifespan of the mine, Marape said.
“My government has made it clear that we will not sign an agreement that does not give Papua New Guinea the returns we deserve. This project is expected to operate for four decades, and we must secure the best possible deal for our country,” the Prime Minister stated.
Marape directed the state negotiating team to finalise discussions and ensure the final agreement delivers at least 55% of total benefits to PNG.
A formal letter will also be sent to the CEOs of Harmony Gold (Peter William Steenkamp) and Newmont (Tom Palmer), making it clear that the government will not compromise on the three remaining issues, he added.
Reflecting on previous agreements, the Prime Minister highlighted concerns regarding the Lihir Gold Mine, where the government received limited corporate tax revenue despite rising global gold prices exceeding USD 3,000 per ounce.
He assured Parliament and the people of PNG that such historical oversights will not be repeated in Wafi-Golpu.
“As a nation governed by the rule of law, we respect agreements, even those that may not be favourable. However, we will not repeat past mistakes. That is why I have insisted that we take the time necessary to secure a fair agreement for Wafi-Golpu,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that delays in concluding the agreement have affected landowners, district leaders, and the Morobe Provincial Government, but assured them that these delays were necessary to
ensure long-term benefits for all stakeholders.
“We will get there. I understand the concerns of landowners and the Morobe leadership, and I apologise for the delay. However, it is better to take time and secure the best deal than to rush into an agreement that does not maximise returns for our country,” he said.
Once negotiations are concluded, the government will work closely with landowners and the provincial government to finalise the Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) and ensure that all relevant parties receive their fair share of project benefits, Marape said.
If the remaining three issues are resolved promptly, the Prime Minister assured Parliament that the project will proceed to the final Community Benefit Sharing Agreement, which will outline the distribution of financial and development benefits for landowners, Morobe province, and PNG.
Marape encouraged all leaders in Morobe, particularly the Vice Minister for Mining and the Member for Bulolo, Hon. Sam Basil Jr, to work with the government in ensuring the project’s success.
Parliament recently (12.03.25) passed two laws for the establishment and operation of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), a new body that will take over as the regulator of the petroleum sector in the country.
The National Petroleum Bill 2025 was voted 84 to 0 into law, while the Oil and Gas Act Amendment Bill 2025 was passed on voices. Both bills were presented to Parliament by Minister for Petroleum, Hon. Jimmy Maladina.
These Acts of Parliament now pave the way for the set-up and operation of NPA, which will take over from the Department of Petroleum and Energy as the administering arm of the petroleum sector under the Oil and Gas Act 1998.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, in a press conference after Parliament ses-sion, highlighted the importance in the role NPA would
play in underpinning the country’s petroleum sector.
“The National Petroleum Authority will be the regulator of this big sector that contributes over 50 percent of the country’s GDP and economy.
“Petroleum is an important sector, but the Oil and Gas Act has carried us for the last 20 years, and so it is timely that we change to keep up with a bigger economy and a more robust hydrocarbon industry, petroleum, and gas pro-jects.
“Under this new framework and structure, regulations, licensing, administration of our petroleum and gas sector will be governed. This will give us a platform for us to move into hybrid production-sharing regime that has Papua New Guinean characteristics,” said Prime Minister Marape.
The Prime Minister gave the assurance that investors have nothing to fear but to have the confidence
that their investments would be better protected un-der the revised mechanism.
“This work will include protecting the return on investors so that they too are making money at the same time but that we are clear on PNG’s entitlements in taxes, royalty, equity, levies and so on.
“So I give assurance to our industry stakeholders out there. The restructure hap-pening is not to diminish their presence or their value, but to ensure that we operate in clarity of regulation and the environment, and that their interest – in as far as return on investment is concerned – is secured.
“This authority will make it easier for all of us,” said PM Marape.
The Prime Minister said this work to set up NPA will continue into the country’s 50th year which begins on 16 September until 15 September 2026.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to advancing the Papua LNG project, confirming that Final Investment Decision (FID) is expected by the end of 2025, paving the way for a new wave of economic growth in Papua New Guinea’s oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the launch of the NASFUND FM100 Talkback Show on Monday, the Prime Minister addressed recent delays, explaining that cost escalations had necessitated a review of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts to align with financial expectations.
“The initial construction cost estimate for Papua LNG was US$12 billion, but tenders came back at US$18 billion, which has prompted the project developers to re-evaluate and optimise costs before proceeding to FID,” Prime Minister Marape explained.
He noted that TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil remain committed to progressing the project, as reaffirmed during his recent discussions with company executives at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Once FID is announced, Papua LNG is expected to generate significant construction activity over the next six to seven years, creating employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, and boosting government revenues. The Prime Minister also confirmed that the P’nyang gas project will follow Papua LNG in sequence, extending the economic benefits of the petroleum sector for the next decade.
“Papua LNG will create a multi-year economic stimulus, driving investment in infrastructure and services. We are ensuring that P’nyang and other gas projects are carefully sequenced to sustain economic growth, employment, and business opportunities over an extended period.”
He encouraged Papua New Guinean businesses, SMEs, and workers to prepare for the opportunities arising from these large-scale
investments.
Prime Minister Marape also highlighted strong economic fundamentals, revealing that foreign exchange reserves have surpassed US$4 billion, marking the highest level in PNG’s history. Additionally, forex supply is sufficient for 18 months, indicating a stable financial outlook.
“The growth of non-extractive sectors—particularly in agriculture, fisheries, and manufacturing—is starting to bear fruit, with non-resource sector growth exceeding 4% for the first time in our nation’s history,” he added.
The government remains committed to structural economic reforms, ensuring that the benefits of resource projects flow into other industries to drive diversified and sustainable economic growth.
In addition to Papua LNG, several major resource projects are moving towards development, including:
• Wafi-Golpu gold and copper project – Final agreements expected in 2025.
• Pasca A offshore gas project –
Set to contribute to PNG’s LNG portfolio.
• P’nyang gas project – Following Papua LNG to ensure long-term energy sector expansion.
With an estimated US$20-25 billion in construction activity over the next decade, the government is ensuring that PNG is positioned for long-term prosperity.
Prime Minister Marape called on PNG businesses, SMEs, and local entrepreneurs to position themselves strategically to benefit from the upcoming investment boom.
“We are in a strong position for economic growth, and I encourage our financial institutions, superannuation funds, and private sector players to align with these developments. We must ensure that Papua New Guineans are at the forefront of these opportunities.”
The government will continue engaging with investors, development partners, and the business community to maintain momentum towards sustainable economic expansion as Papua New Guinea moves toward its 50th anniversary of independence.
The Hon. Jimmy Maladina, LLB, LLM, MP, Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Petroleum, has invited Italian energy giant Eni to explore investment opportunities in PNG’s petroleum sector, highlighting the country’s vast resource potential and upcoming licensing bid rounds for new exploration blocks.
As part of the ongoing Production Sharing Contract (PSC) feasibility consultations, Minister Maladina and his delegation engaged with a wide range of stakeholders, including existing contractors operating in the region. One such company was Eni Asia Pacific, a major player in deepwater exploration and development.
During discussions with Mr. Roberto Daniale, Head of Eni Asia Pacific, Minister Maladina emphasized PNG’s commitment to fostering a competitive and transparent investment environment. He noted that
the government is working to unlock petroleum prospects along the Gulf of Papua and the Papua coastline, with several blocks soon to be tendered internationally through a bid process managed by the Department of Petroleum and Energy.
“PNG presents significant opportunities for responsible and well-capitalized investors. Given Eni’s expertise in deepwater exploration and development, we encourage them to consider expanding into PNG,” Minister Maladina stated.
Mr. Daniale expressed interest on behalf of Eni, confirming that the company has been assessing potential opportunities in PNG. Eni has requested further details on the upcoming bid rounds once they are formally announced.
Minister Maladina reaffirmed that PNG is entering a new era of petroleum sector management,
where license conditions will be strictly enforced and speculative warehousing of exploration rights will no longer be permitted. “We are committed to ensuring that only genuine investors with the financial and technical capability to develop our resources are awarded licenses,” he added.
As PNG positions itself as a key player in the regional energy market, the government remains focused on attracting world-class investors to drive responsible resource development for long-term economic growth.
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Petroleum Minister Hon. Jimmy Maladina led a delegation of senior officials from the Department of Petroleum and the State Negotiating Team to undertake feasibility assessments on production sharing agreement (PSA) arrangements in Malaysia and Indonesia.
The delegation met with senior officials from Petronas Malaysia on the 22nd of February 2025 to discuss the regulatory frameworks and fiscal regimes in their energy and hydrocarbon sectors.
“Our purpose is to gain insight into regulatory frameworks, fiscal regimes, and institutional arrangements within the energy and hydrocarbon sectors.”
“These learnings will help us shape significant reforms in Papua New Guinea,” Minister Maladina said.
The visit follows the National Executive Council’s (NEC) approval of drafting instructions for the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Bill and amendments to the Oil and Gas Act 1998.
Minister Maladina emphasized
that these engagements are crucial to ensuring PNG adopts best practices in managing its oil and gas resources.
“We want to assess various production sharing arrangements and fiscal regimes in these countries to determine what could work best for PNG,” he stated.
“The insights gained from these discussions will be invaluable as we enhance our regulatory and fiscal frameworks.”
The Petroleum Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to thorough consultations with stakeholders to deliver effective reforms, including the establishment of the NPA in 2025.
“We will continue engaging with industry stakeholders to ensure the reforms including the establishment of the NPA in 2025, serve the best interest of PNG.” The Minister concluded.
KPHL has started gathering seismic data in its Barikewa petroleum retention licence in Gulf Province.
Kumul Petroleum Managing Director, Wapu Sonk explained, “Our contractor, OM Holdings Limited or OilMin, has for the last few months been engaged in landowner engagement, building camps, helipads and bridging, drilling holes for explosive charges, and laying out the recorders over approximately 80 kilometres in six seismic lines in our two licences, and this week we have started data collection.”
Mr Sonk explained that this was an historic moment – the first time a 100% national company had engaged in petroleum appraisal work in the country; and that the seismic
work would gather additional information on gas already discovered in the two KPHL licences, to increase known volumes of oil and gas they contain, and improve targets for possible further drilling.
“From seismic results from the Barikewa field, and later in the Kimu field, we will have a better idea of the oil and gas volumes in these licences and be able to assess the economic feasibility of monetising the gas, and select a development path.”
Mr Sonk explained that the seismic work was in a remote area and helicopter-supported; that line cutting was a labour intensive activity and the OilMin managed operation employed more than 100 local casual employees. He
noted that OilMin and Kumul Petroleum were also involved in small scale community development in communities close to the seismic work activities.
Mr Sonk explained further, “KPHL’s role is to maximise the financial returns that PNG receives from the natural resources it has been blessed with, supporting our economy and development as a country.”
“Now Kumul Petroleum Holdings is actively involved in upstream petroleum appraisal we can progress further commercialisation of PNG’s gas resources, in licences where these discoveries had previously been considered uneconomic and ‘stranded’ fields.”
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Sustainable agricultural growth in Papua New Guinea hinges on investing in people rather than just crops, Dr. Eric Omuru, Managing Director and Principal Consultant of E.E. Omuru Limited, said during his plenary keynote at the Central Province Investment Conference (CPIC) 2024.
The CPIC was co-hosted by the Central Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (CCCI) and the Central Provincial Government with the theme “Investing in Central Province” on 27th to 28th February at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby.
Omuru, who played a key role in developing PNG’s National Agriculture Sector Plan, opened his address by acknowledging the challenge of condensing such a critical discussion into a ten-minute speech.
His session presentation was titled “Transforming Agriculture and Commodities: Charting a Path Towards Enhanced Food Security, Mechanization, and Climate Resilience for Cash Crops and Value Chain Success.”
Despite last-minute program changes, Omuru highlighted fundamental issues affecting PNG’s agricultural sector.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of PNG’s economy, yet its export revenue stands at a modest K4.5 billion, far below its potential, Omuru said. He argued that the sector’s underperformance is largely due to a long-standing focus on crops rather than the people cultivating them.
He said, “We need to shift from a commodity-focused approach to one that prioritizes the people who grow these crops. If we invest in people, we will see progress in agriculture.”
The statistics he presented painted a stark picture of Central Province’s struggles:
• Coconut (copra) – No exports recorded since industry deregulation in 2002.
• Cocoa – No exports in the past decade, though recent government partnerships offer hope.
• Coffee – Contributes a mere 0.1% of national exports.
• Oil palm – Minimal presence in the province.
• Rubber – The only crop with a respectable share, benefiting from 74% of government subsidies in 2021. Despite its limited market appeal, rubber is emerging as a viable opportunity. Omuru shared his personal experience of entering the trade, acknowledging the financial losses but also gaining firsthand insight into the hardships faced by rural farmers.
Omuru also raised concerns about PNG’s increasing dependence on imported staple foods. While the country’s annual rice consumption is estimated at 500,000 to 600,000 tons, local production remains minimal, with only about 13,000 smallholder farmers cultivating rice.
“We eat around 60 kilograms of rice per person each year, but we hardly grow enough to sustain ourselves,” he said.
The livestock sector faces similar challenges. Omuru said PNG consumes 16,000 tons of meat annually but produces only 2,000 tons, with the shortfall met by imports. He pointed out that Central Province has vast land resources suitable for livestock farming, yet efforts remain minimal.
Climate change is exacerbating agricultural challenges, as Omuru noting rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and increased pest infestations— including the coconut rhinoceros beetle and coffee berry borer—are threatening production.
“Agriculture in PNG remains largely traditional, with minimal mechanization. We need to modernize and prepare for these challenges to ensure long-term sustainability,” he noted.
One of Omuru’s key recommendations was increasing downstream processing and value addition. Using rubber as an example, he highlighted the significant price difference between raw cup lump rubber (purchased at K1.50 per kg) and processed ribbed smoked sheets (RSS), which can fetch K6 per kg.
“If we focus on value addition, we lighten the crop’s weight and generate more income. This kind of smart think-
ing is necessary if we want agriculture to be a viable business,” he said.
He also urged the provincial government to improve infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to help farmers transport their produce to market more efficiently.
Omuru emphasized that empowering farmers with training, access to finance, and better market opportunities would drive meaningful progress.
“The livelihoods of our people must be at the center of agricultural policies and investments. Only then will we see real, sustainable change,” he said, reminding all attendees that agriculture is not just about producing food, it’s about supporting the people who cultivate it.
The conference goes in line with the nation’s 50th Anniversary, reflecting on the province’s achievements and future aspirations. Featured keynotes and panel discussions to review Central Province history, and current initiatives and outline feature goals were key highlights to the two day conference.
The CPIC 2025 program included two days of dynamic activities:
• Day 1 featured strategic speeches and interactive sessions on agriculture, tourism, fisheries, innovation, and creative industries to support economic diversification.
• Day 2 focused on utilities, revenue generation, infrastructure land reforms and social development, including youth and women’s empowerment. The event concluded with the official launch of the CCCI and a gala celebration
The CCCI also hosted a business matching event on February 27 for investors and registered participants to exchange insights and foster partnership, providing further networking opportunities on February 28.
Hon. Rufina Peter, the Governor of Central Province, thanked all sponsors and stakeholders for their support. “Together we can unite stakeholders for this pivotal moment,” she added.
Linda Paru, President and Interim CEO of CCCI, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to initiatives that stimulate economic growth and innovation, noting the event was a valuable platform for meaningful partnerships.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
The Goilala District Development Authority (DDA) has prioritized heavy investment in agriculture, particularly in coffee farming, in close collaboration with the Goilala Development Corporation Limited (GDCL) becoming the first 100% local business to purchase coffee directly from local farmers.
Goilala, in the Central Province of Papua New Guinea, is known for the Tolukuma Gold Mine, but today, the Member for Goilala and Chairman of the District Development Authority, Honorable Casmiro Aia, said it works towards setting Goilala on the exporters’ map as the producers and suppliers of the country’s quality coffee.
Aia said that direct purchasing empowers local farmers and strengthens the district’s coffee industry with a clear priority to one day export quality Goilala Coffee.
Goilala in 2022 first exported a container of coffee to Dubai, under a 3rd Party export arrangement officiated by MP Aia in Lae.
The National Cup Testing Competition in the same year resulted with Goilala organic coffee scoring 84% and 85% respectively, which is A & AA in grading. Internal quality assessment and tests done by CIC Provincial Extension Coordinator and CIC Team based in Port Mo -
resby ensure quality is maintained. Today, the DDA, including the company and the committed coffee farmers in Goilala, hope to maintain the grade and quality title their coffee holds in quality checks.
This January, a total of 17,917 kilograms of coffee parchment, packaged in 50kg bags, was purchased by GDCL at K6 per kilogram, amounting to K107,502. The purchase directly benefited more than 100 coffee farmers from Lower Vetapu in the Woitape Local Level Government (LLG).
The occasion was witnessed on January 8 at the Ononge Airstrip by Hon. Aia and Dr. Titus Girau, District CEO for Goilala. GDCL General Manager, Mr. Ronald Kolalio, officially handed over the funds to the Ononge Coffee Growers Cooperative Society executives, who facilitated the payments to the farmers the following day.
Aia said Goilala DDA decided to invest heavily in agriculture, especially coffee and other agricultural projects that will follow, to create direct revenue for the locals.
“In doing so, we encourage them to be self-reliant rather than relying on the handout mentality from the government. This handout mentality promotes laziness and develops a parasitic attitude feeding off the hard work of the government and
other people,” he emphasized.
Aia expressed gratitude to the Coffee Industry Corporation (CIC) for supporting Goilala’s coffee initiatives and called on the Ministries of Coffee and Agriculture to extend further assistance.
Hon. Aia has also made a called for a stronger focus on economic independence for PNG, emphasizing agriculture as the key driver for sustainable development and poverty reduction. He expressed concern over the nation’s reliance on imports and the lack of economic empowerment for its citizens.
“This country was given political independence but was not given economic independence.”
“Papua New Guinea is still an import driven country. We need to cultivate the land to cut down on imports, especially food items that can grow here by our people to sustain ourselves and generate little income for our people,” Aia said.
Highlighting agriculture as a solution to social issues, Aia said farming could address poverty and curb rising crime and social disorders driven by food insecurity.
The MP acknowledged the importance of infrastructure but warned that it must be comple
mented by strategies that empower people economically.
“There is no problem building roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure like clinics, classrooms, communication towers, police stations, and health centers. However, we need to craft mechanisms to encourage our people to be economically independent and be able to have money in their pockets to attend to their wide range of demands,” he explained.
Without disposable income, he said rural communities cannot fully utilize the infrastructure built for them.
Given Goilala’s remote geography, Aia acknowledged the critical role of aviation partners in enabling agricultural operations with Air Sanga, Farland Aviation, Helifix Aviation, and Loma Aviation in meeting our transportation needs in Goilala.
To complement the DDA’s efforts, Goilala has launched the Goilala business arm, an initiative aimed at addressing critical issues in the district. The first major step has been the purchase of coffee in Ononge, which will soon expand to Woitape, Tapini, and Guari local-level governments.
“Having come a long way with many struggles, we decided to come up with Goilala Business to complement DDA to attend to some of our pressing issues. The purchase of coffee in Ononge is the first and will roll out to the entire Goilala from Woitape LLG to Tapini LLG and finally to Guari LLG,” Aia said.
His vision for Goilala reflects a broader push for self-reliance and sustainable development, aligning with national goals to strengthen PNG’s economic independence through grassroots initiatives.
Goilala coffee has gained interest from both domestic and international markets, notably in South Korea and Dubai. However, Goilala Development Corporation Limited remains cautious about exporting due to limited capacity and logistical hurdles.
“We’d prefer to export, but we lack the consistent supply volume required. For now, we’re focusing on local sales, buying at K6 per kilo from farmers and aiming to sell at K8 or K12.”
“With the high costs of transport, breaking even with sales and profit especially overseas, would be a great success,” General Manager for GDCL Ronald Kolalio explained in an exclusive interview with PNG Business News.
The company is the business arm of the Goilala District Development Authority (DDA), taking steps to unlock the economic potential of the remote Goilala District in the Central Province.
Kolalio described the process as a game-changer with the opportunity to change the negative labeling of Goilala in the country for social issues. He emphasized the company’s renewed efforts to drive local development through agriculture and infrastructure projects.
The company’s first major venture focuses on capitalizing on Goilala’s renowned coffee production, which is highly rated on the global market. At the beginning of January 2025, the company purchased K107,000 worth of coffee from farmers in Ononge, Woitape LLG.
However, moving the coffee to market has proven difficult due to the region’s rugged terrain and lack of reliable transport.
“Out of the 365 bags we bought, we’ve only managed to move 41 bags due to limited access. The only
way in and out is by air, and small airplanes can’t carry much cargo,” the General Manager shared their challenge.
“Cloud cover and tough geography make flying difficult, limiting how much coffee we can bring out at a time.”
To address these challenges, GCDL plans to collaborate with DDA projects to utilize return cargo trips for transporting coffee bags and is exploring charter flights to speed up delivery.
Long-term plans include establishing a coffee processing facility in Goilala to secure an export license and reduce dependency on third-party exporters. Kolalio confirmed negotiations a currently in progress for land to build this facility on.
Beyond agriculture, GCDL is stepping into the construction sector to improve the district’s struggling infrastructure. The DDA, dissatisfied with the performance of external contractors, is now relying on GCDL to deliver critical road projects.
“We have two machines on route to Tapini, earmarked for two critical roads— from Tapini to Kerau and Tapini to Woitape,” he said.
Progress is hindered by flooding and wet road conditions, but once weather permits, construction will begin—offering a lifeline to remote communities and a more logistically convenient for coffee purchasing.
“If all goes according to plan, we hope to generate profits from construction, coffee, and other
ventures to declare dividends to the DDA. This will support the DDA’s social obligations in health and education.”
Established in 2016 under the leadership of the late Hon. William Samb, GDCL struggled to progress due to funding constraints. Operations stalled after Samb’s passing, but the company was recently revived by MP Aia.
“The Goilala Development Corporation is owned 100% by the Goilala DDA, for the people,” the General Manager explained.
“The wisdom behind setting up the company is a great undertaking. When William Sumb set out to do this, he had a very long-term view about the successes that could be achieved. And it gives me great pleasure to be part of this company and project, to work closely with DDA and the Member Casmiro, to change Goilala through agriculture – coffee.”
The company officially resumed operations in December 2024, marking its first active year in 2025.
He emphasized the company’s broader mission to reshape Goilala’s image, which has often been overshadowed by negative perceptions.
“Presently, when you mention Goilala, people think of crime. But we want Goilala to be known for something positive, like our coffee,” he shared. “If a Korean chooses Goilala coffee over other brands that would mean everything to us.”
Despite formidable logistical and environmental challenges, the people of Goilala have shown remarkable resilience and determination. The General Manager praised their efforts and expressed pride in contributing to the district’s progress.
“Goilala is a very challenging place, but the people are very hardworking, resilient, and hospitable. I’m privileged to be part of the change shaping a better image for Goilala,” he said.
MP Aia commended both GDCL and the hardworking farmers for their dedication. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the district’s coffee in -
dustry by advocating for an export license for Goilala.
Cyprian Ile, Chairman of the Ononge Coffee Growers Cooperative Society and Woitape LLG Coffee Rehabilitation Projects Coordinator, expressed gratitude for GDCL’s partnership with local farmers.
“This is the first direct partnership with our people, especially coffee farmers in the district, where their coffee parchment was previously sold to companies outside of the district.”
Mr. Ile reiterated MP Aia’s comments and stated that the timely payment would help farmers meet crucial family financial obligations, including school fees, healthcare bills, and household expenses.
He noted the relief this brought to parents preparing for the upcoming academic year, easing the burden of school-related costs such as uniforms and supplies.
The purchase marks the beginning of ongoing efforts, as GDCL plans to continue buying coffee parchment from farmers in Woitape Station, Jongai, Sopu, and Tapini Station.
Six model rice farmers have begun hands-on training to become commercial rice farmers through Trukai Industries’ Smart Farmer Internship Program.
These farmers commenced their three-month internship training at Trukai’s Erap Farm in Lae, Morobe Province, on January 27, and are the first batch of interns in this quarterly program, with other batches scheduled to follow in April, July, and October 2025.
In total, 24 model rice farmers will undergo this intensive training this year, equipping them with skill sets needed to venture into commercial rice farming.
The three-month program covers crop management and soil preparation, farm machinery operation and maintenance, efficient use of fertilizers, chemicals, and irrigation systems, and seed production and post-harvest techniques.
In 2024, Trukai Industries chose the model farmers based on the following criteria:
Attended and completed Trukai’s Smart Farmer Program having undergone two weeks on campus training and 18 weeks knowledge transfer at their own locality,
Received a Certificate in Irrigated Rice Farming from either the PNG University of Technology in Lae or the Pacific Adventist University in Port Moresby,
Have demonstrated that they are self-starters and have taken ownership of their farming by continuing to grow rice up to one hectare or
more and have organised and led their community in this venture with the seeds they have harvested.
John Gaif, President of the Markham Smart Farmers Association and a Trukai model rice farmer, is one of the six interns from this first batch.
He described the program as an eye-opener, adding that the Smart Farmer Internship program broadened his understanding of commercial rice farming.
Gaif added the internship program provided valuable knowledge and practical experience to the model farmers, helping them understand the specific steps they needed to undertake when they return to their own farms and communities.
“Many of us thought planting rice on a large-scale was just another form of farming, but we now realise that it is far more complex and costly. The internship program has exposed us to the realities of commercial farming, including the use of machinery, chemicals, and the importance of following strict crop calendars,” said Gaif.
He emphasized his goal of working with stakeholders to expand rice farming, while at the same time include other crops as well.
Trukai Industries’ Agriculture Manager, Aina Davis, noted that the internship program provided real commercial farming exposure, ensuring that participants were well equipped with knowledge and skills to operate at a larger scale.
“This internship program is
a step in preparing our farmers for commercial rice production. Through hands-on training, they gain experience in land preparation, planting, crop management, harvesting, farm upkeep, and machinery maintenance,” she said.
“Our goal is to inspire these farmers to invest in rice farming and to adopt this as part of their livelihood and contribute to the local economy,” said Davis.
Trukai Industries CEO, Alan Preston, said that the Smart Farmer Internship Program is the next stage in the company’s broader Smart Farmer initiative, which aims to develop subsistence farmer’s transition to semi-commercial and commercial rice farmers across Papua New Guinea.
“For decades, Trukai Industries has supported local rice farming in rural communities. This program demonstrates our ongoing commitment to building capacity, fostering innovation, and ensuring a sustainable future for PNG’s rice industry,” he said.
“By equipping local farmers with the right skills, we aim to empower them to grow rice and create economic opportunities for their families and communities,” said Preston.
By the end of the program, participants of the Trukai Smart Farmer Internship Program will have gained valuable experience in commercial rice farming, paving the way for a stronger, more resilient local rice industry.
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By: ROSELYN EREHE
Global coffee and cocoa prices have soared to record levels, driven by severe supply disruptions and adverse weather conditions in key producing regions, according to the latest Papua New Guinea Westpac Wallis February 2025 Report.
Coffee prices jumped 94% over the past year, with a 13.6% increase in the last month alone. Meanwhile, cocoa prices are 133% higher compared to the same period last year due to declining global stockpiles and persistent production challenges.
Coffee markets worldwide are feeling the impact of a supply shortage, particularly due to below-average rainfall in Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer. Ongoing drought conditions from last year have reduced production, leading traders to anticipate a continued supply crunch in 2025.
Arabica coffee futures climbed to $3.45 per pound and could rise further in the medium term. The situation is further aggravated by the appreciation of the Brazilian real, which strengthened by 4.5% over the past month. This has made Brazilian coffee more expensive, pushing global buyers to look for alternative sources.
For PNG, coffee is a key export commodity, and the price rally should theoretically benefit local farmers and exporters. However, this has not translated into increased export revenue. In September 2024, PNG’s coffee exports dropped by 47% to 9,300 tonnes, while the value of exports declined by 42% over the year and 31% in the September quarter as PNG coffee producers face local production challenges.
According to the report, cocoa prices have surged due to supply chain disruptions and worsening weather conditions in West Africa, the world’s top cocoa-producer. Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, which together account for 60% of global cocoa supply have faced droughts and poor weather conditions causing production declines.
As a result, global cocoa stockpiles fell to 1.04 million metric tons in the 2023 and 2024 season, a sharp 36% year-onyear drop. Strong demand for cocoa has further driven up prices, with buyers
scrambling to secure supply.
PNG’s cocoa export receipts increased in 2024, largely due to higher price per unit, benefiting local farmers and exporters. However, Westpac expects global supply constraints to ease later in the year, as favorable weather conditions in major cocoa-growing regions lead to a rebound in production and a potential price correction.
The sharp rise in coffee and cocoa prices presents both challenges and opportunities for PNG’s export sector. While higher prices boost farmers’ incomes, the
decline in export volumes, particularly for coffee, highlights underlying domestic production issues that need to be addressed.
Market and economic analysts will be closely monitoring global production trends, weather conditions, and currency movements to assess the long-term sustainability of these record-high prices. Based on the report and data presented, ensuring a consistent and competitive supply of coffee and cocoa will be critical for PNG in capitalizing on the current market conditions.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
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A trip with Trans Niugini Tours is like a journey through culture and nature. Trans Niugini Tours provides unique opportunities for adventure seekers, cultural enthusiasts, and nature lovers to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions of PNG, known as the land of the unexpected. From the Sepik River cruises to immersive experiences in the PNG Highlands, the company curates exceptional itineraries designed to showcase the country’s rich heritage.
Trans Niugini Tours proudly organizes and facilitates visits to some of Papua New Guinea’s most spectacular cultural events. Among the 2025 festival highlights are:
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Four out of five tourists who visited Papua New Guinea in 2024 were satisfied and are willing to return to the country and would recommend it to other tourists, according to the annual PNG International Visitor Survey (IVS) Report released this month.
About 86 percent of the survey respondents recommended PNG and 89 percent said they were willing to come back, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) said of the study.
It was made through SPTO’s Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA).
Visitors rated hospitality, tours, handicrafts, accommodation, and activities highly, the report said. Areas for improvement included safety, travel costs, domestic flights, infrastructure, cleanliness, and security.
The survey ran from January to December 2024, analyzing 3,701 responses from 3,775 collected, with a 24% response rate. Nearly half or 42% of respondents were first-time visitors, with an average household income of USD 86,074 (about 366,000 kina).
As expected, PNG’s next-door neighbor Australia recorded the highest visitor arrivals at 39%, followed by tourists from Asia at 35%, and Europe at 8%.
The dominant age group was 40-59 years old, as 48% traveled to PNG for business, 23% traveled for leisure, and 18% went to the country to visit friends and relatives, the report added.
Key attractions for tourists included nature, cultural heritage, business opportunities, and family visits. World War II heritage sites were a major draw for historical tourism, the report said. Visitors appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the local people.
The survey also noted that the average prepaid visitor spending was USD 2,613 (10,750 kina), with 65% (USD 1,699 or 6,990 kina) benefiting the local economy.
In-country spending averaged USD 1,385 (about 5,700 kina) per trip, with an average stay of 10.2 nights. Visitors contributed USD 309 million (1.27 billion kina) to PNG’s economy, a 9% increase from the previous year, the IVS added.
The IVS findings will support evidence-based planning and enhance PNG’s tourism offerings to align with evolving visitor expectations, the report proponents said.
SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker highlighted the significance of the PTDI in shaping sustainable tourism growth across the Pacific.
He said SPTO remains committed to working closely with TPA and other member countries to ensure the PTDI continues to deliver meaningful insights that drive sustainable tourism development across the Pacific.
“As the leading hub for Pacific tourism research, SPTO is committed to equipping our member countries, including PNG, with reliable data to inform strategic decisions. The PTDI is a vital resource that enables governments and industry stakeholders to make informed choices that strengthen regional tourism development,” he said.
TPA CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo acknowledged the value of the IVS findings, as the country seeks to improve visitor experiences and
position PNG as a competitive destination.
“These insights are instrumental in shaping the future of tourism in PNG. We appreciate SPTO’s collaboration in delivering these reports, which will guide our strategies for sustainable tourism growth,” said Uvovo.
Since transitioning to SPTO’s management in October 2023, the PTDI continues to serve as an essential resource for tourism data across the Pacific.
Funded by the New Zealand Government, the PTDI supports ten Pacific Island nations—Cook Islands, Niue, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Timor Leste, and FSM-Yap—in evidence-based planning and decision-making.
The initiative produces the bi-annual IVS, an annual Business Confidence Index (BCI), and an annual Community Attitude Survey (CAS) report to strengthen regional tourism strategies.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) reaffirmed its partnership with Carnival Australia (P&O Cruises) to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) growing cruise sector on Monday 9 December in Sydney, Australia.
TPA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Eric Mossman Uvovo, met with Carnival Australia’s Vice President, Peter Little, to reaffirm the partnership between PNG and the region’s leading cruise liner, Carnival Australia.
Carnival Australia, under its passenger cruise brand, P&O Cruises, have been sailing into PNG waters since 2014, a significant moment that marked the entry of large capacity passenger cruising into PNG. Since then, the cruise sector in PNG has grown exponentially. In 2019, prior to the onset of the global pandemic, PNG registered the highest num -
ber of cruise arrivals into PNG at 52,000 cruise passengers alone. Over the years, Carnival Australia has played a significant role by ensuring continued cruise itineraries for PNG as a cruise destination in the Pacific.
Cruise tourism in PNG has contributed an estimated US$20 million to the PNG economy, a specific percentage of which goes directly to the local communities through landing fee’s, shore excursion activities, arts and crafts, local hire bus services and tour guiding.
TPA’s CEO alluded to the importance of ensuring concentrated investments in cruise provinces to improve the overall cruise experience.
“Our cruise hubs, Milne Bay and East New Britian, have incredible potential and require stronger coordination in the province to drive community educational
programs and tourist safety initiatives,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also highlighted his concerns over recent law and order issues which have cast a cloud of doubt over the cruise sector in PNG.
“I look forward to working with the leadership in the cruise provinces of PNG to establish community policing initiatives and youth ambassador programs to mitigate risks associated with cruise port call
(TPA)
Eric
and Carnival Australia’s Senior Director – Destination Management, Michael Mihajlov, during the TPA’s meeting with carnival Australia on Monday 9 December in Syndey, Australia. Page 102 >
We always give our guests reasons for coming back
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A selection of spacious bedrooms and penthouses o ers the perfect balance of comfort, privacy, and residential-style living. Additionally, guests have access to Executive Boardrooms and indoor and outdoor event spaces on the 11th oor, boasting panoramic views of the harbour and city skyline. For tness enthusiasts, gym memberships are now available.
The next two years will be an exciting period of transformation as we undertake extensive renovations across six of our hotels—including ve Coral Sea-branded properties and our agship, Grand Papua Hotel. These projects are a signi cant step in rejuvenating our portfolio, ensuring an enhanced experience for our guests.
As part of our commitment to comfort, hygiene, safety, and security, we have taken a major step by embarking on SafeHotels certi cation across all our properties. Grand Papua Hotel has been awarded Premium SafeHotels status, while Gateway Hotel & Apartments received certi cation at the end of 2024. SafeHotels sets globally recognized safety, security, and hygiene standards through independent on-site assessments by industry experts. Notably, Grand Papua and Gateway are the rst hotels in all of Australasia and the Paci c Islands to achieve this certi cation - let alone Premium status.
Renovation works have began at Gateway Hotel, with Ela Beach hotel and Grand Papua hotel are set to start in quarter two of 2025, followed by The Highlander (Mt Hagen), Bird of Paradise (Goroka), and Huon Gulf Hotel (Lae) in 2026. These upgrades will introduce newly refurbished rooms and apartments, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, and exciting new food and beverage o erings, further elevating the Coral Sea Hotels experience.
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The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Australian Government-funded Kokoda Initiative Partnership (KIP) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to boost tourism infrastructure and services along the Kokoda Track.
The MOA, signed at Owens Corner on Tuesday 4 February, launches the “Kokoda Sanitation Project”. The Kokoda Sanitation Project is part of a broader effort to strengthen sustainable tourism development in Papua New Guinea.
It will address inadequate and poor sanitation along the Kokoda Track, which have been longstanding challenges for both tourists and locals.
TPA’s CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo said that the primary objective of the MOA is to strengthen tourism development along the Kokoda Track.
“This partnership marks a significant step forward in our efforts to not only preserve the historical importance of the Kokoda Track, but to enhance the visitor experience by improving facilities and services,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo also emphasized the importance of upgrading campsite facilities and improving working conditions for porters.
“The Kokoda Track is a national treasure. By improving the amenities and ensuring that local operators are better equipped to serve tourists, we are ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the communities directly involved.
Local communities are at the heart of our tourism industry. This partnership ensures that they will directly benefit from the development projects along the trail,” said Uvovo.
The MOA will be in effect until 2026, with between three and five major projects planned for implementation. Success will be measured by the timely delivery of projects, the positive impact on local trekking facilities, and the subsequent benefits to the communities involved.
The core focus of this partnership is the promotion of sustainable tourism development and the utilization of local resources and knowledge.
The TPA, with the support of KIP, aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure along the Kokoda Track while preserving its cultural and historical significance.
The partnership is expected to deliver many benefits, including improved services and facilities, which will enable local businesses to charge higher campsite fees and increase revenue for the communities along the Track.
Future capacity-building initiatives for local tourism operators and associations will strengthen the Kokoda
trekking industry, making it more competitive and sustainable, while environmentally, the introduction of upgraded sanitation services will support a healthier and safer environment for both locals and visitors.
Daniel Wells, Counsellor for Kokoda and Bougainville at the Australian High Commission, emphasized the significance of the Kokoda Track to the Australia-Papua New Guinea bilateral relationship.
“The Kokoda Track remains one of the most important peopleto-people links between PNG and Australia, with nearly 3,000 people, most of them Australian, walking the Track each year.
This is an investment by Australia in PNG’s most important tourism asset. Australia, through the Kokoda Initiative Partnership, is proud to have invested in measurable improvements to livelihoods outcomes for Kokoda Track communities, including through sustainable tourism initiatives,” said Wells.
(Seated, L-R) Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Executive Manager for Partnership & Product Development, Kennewton Kennedy, TPA’s Executive Manager for Research & Business Development, Douglas Keari, TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, ABT Associates’ Team leader, Joshua Madgwick, Kokoda Track Authority’s (KTA) CEO, Julias Wargirai, KTA’s Chairman, Jack Deia and team’s from TPA, KTA, Ranger of the Kokoda Track and representatives of the Koiari people following the MOA signing at Owens Corner in the Central Province.
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days. The communities in these cruise destinations must appreciate the windfall of tourist a cruise brings into a town when the passenger ship calls into their port, it should be a time to embrace our visitors
and take ownership as proud ambassadors for your culture, community, province and country.
I appeal to all stakeholders in our cruise provinces, a coordinated effort is critical as we continue to welcome cruise ships of all sizes into our coastal and riverway
communities,” said Uvovo.
Uvovo has reaffirmed TPA’s partnership with Carnival Australia and has committed to finding proactive solutions to issues currently faced in the Cruise sector for the benefit of all cruise stakeholders.
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By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea (PNG) faces significant challenges in addressing money laundering (ML) and asset recovery.
According to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) published in November 2024, the country lacks skilled personnel, institutional resources, and prioritization to tackle these issues effectively.
Consequently, PNG has until October 2025 to implement the FATF recommendations or risk being grey-listed, a designation that could harm its economy and international reputation.
In response, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has collaborated with key government departments and the Bank of PNG to form the Anti-Money Laundering Joint Taskforce (AMLJTF).
The taskforce aims to enhance coordination and effectiveness in combating ML and recovering assets. The initiative, formalized during a signing ceremony on December 18, 2024, at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby, is a critical step in aligning PNG’s efforts with FATF’s global standards.
Money laundering poses a significant threat to PNG, exacerbated by corruption and transnational organized crime. The AMLJTF brings together government and private sector expertise to address these risks, improve compliance, and achieve meaningful outcomes by 2025.
At the signing ceremony, ICAC’s Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Daniel Baulch, emphasized the urgency of reinforcing PNG’s commitment to the AMLJTF. He warned that grey-listing would severely damage PNG’s economy, deter foreign investment, and tarnish its international standing.
Baulch outlined the taskforce’s objectives:
• Enhancing intelligence on ML risks
• Investigating financial crimes
• Recovering illicit assets
• Strengthening enforcement measures
Achieving these goals would bolster PNG’s reputation, attract investment, and create a transparent financial system, Baulch said.
He emphasized that the AMLJTF was established to create a coordinated and effective response to asset recovery and money laundering, pointing out that PNG is particularly exposed to financial crimes, and tackling these threats is essential for the country’s economic stability and national security. Their inter-agency collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach to combating money laundering, he said.
David Towe, Chief Commissioner of PNG Customs Services, praised the establishment of the AMLJTF and stressed the need for inter-agency collaboration.
He highlighted the country’s vulnerability to grey-listing and the adverse effects on its economy, including restricted trade and higher transaction costs.
“We have the report from the FNCF, and we are at risk of being re-listed. Being re-listed is very bad for us, especially for the financial integrity of our country,” Towe said.
“The impact of being re-listed is serious, and that calls for action,” he added.
To address these challenges, Towe announced the formation of a dedicated Customs team to implement FATF recommendations.
“In public meetings, we tend to work in silos, and most times we don’t get to deliver results. I want to encourage every one of us, the members of the FNCF and other law enforcement agencies, for us to work together on this,” he said.
He urged other agencies to adopt a collaborative approach, citing past successes achieved through partnerships with public and private sector entities.
Failing to meet FATF standards could have severe repercussions for PNG, Baulch said:
1. Economic Impact: Reduced foreign investment, limited trade, and restricted access to global banking services.
2. Reputational Damage: Perceived as a high-risk financial destination, discouraging investors.
3. Pressure to Reform: Increased international oversight and demands for legislative changes.
4. Risk of Blacklisting: Non-compliance could lead to blacklisting, resulting in sanctions and exclusion from global financial systems.
Baulch stressed the importance of complying with international
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Prime Minister James Marape has announced a bold tax reform strategy aimed at fostering investment, increasing consumer spending, and driving local industry growth. The reforms will take effect once Papua New Guinea’s economy reaches a K150 billion milestone, a target expected to be achieved within the next three to four years. He announced this at the Back to Business Breakfast in Port Moresby.
The Prime Minister emphasised that these changes will create a business-friendly environment, ensuring that economic expansion benefits both investors and citizens.
Prime Minister Marape outlined key tax initiatives that will come into effect once PNG reaches the K150 billion economic threshold:
• Lowering corporate tax to encourage business expansion and attract further investment.
• Reducing personal income tax to increase disposable income and boost domestic consumption.
• Implementing stricter capital outflow regulations to ensure funds are reinvested locally rather than leaving the country.
“These tax reductions will create the conditions necessary for businesses to thrive, ensuring that
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anti-money laundering standards. He called for enhanced collaboration among regulatory and law enforcement agencies to ensure swift investigations and asset recovery.
“By working together through the AMLJTF, PNG can secure a prosperous and stable future for its people,” Baulch said.
He reaffirmed ICAC’s commitment to supporting the taskforce and urged all stakeholders to intensify their efforts against financial crimes.
The following agencies have joined the AMLJTF:
• Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC)
investment remains in Papua New Guinea and continues to support employment, infrastructure, and industry growth,” said Prime Minister Marape.
To further strengthen PNG’s economic position, the government is focusing on Special Economic Zones (SEZs), including a tax-free business hub in Manus Province, designed to attract regional trade, investment, and industrial development.
“Our vision is to position Manus as a strategic trade hub, opening up new economic opportunities and fostering partnerships with businesses seeking to expand in the Asia-Pacific region,” said the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister Marape also called upon leading business organisations, including the PNG Chamber of Commerce, the PNG Business Council, the Manufacturers Council, and the Chamber of Resources and Energy, to collaborate with the government in identifying growth opportunities and shaping investor-friendly policies.
He highlighted import replacement and local manufacturing as key government priorities, urging multinational and domestic firms such as Trukai Industries and those in the food sector to invest in local pro -
• Financial Analysis and Supervision Unit (FASU) of the Bank of Papua New Guinea
• Papua New Guinea Customs Services
• Immigration & Citizenship Services Authority (ICSA)
• Investment Promotion Authority (IPA)
• Auditor General’s Office (AGO)
Additional agencies, including the Office of the Public Prosecutor (OPP), Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG), and Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), will join in 2025.
The AMLJTF will report to the Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Operations Committee (ARMLOC), comprising RPNGC, FASU, OPP, and ICAC. ARMLOC’s
duction to reduce PNG’s dependence on imports.
“With the right incentives, streamlined regulations, and stronger industry collaboration, we can transform PNG into a regional centre for manufacturing and downstream processing,” the Prime Minister added.
The government is committed to:
• Reducing bureaucratic barriers to make investment easier and more efficient.
• Encouraging foreign and domestic businesses to scale their operations in PNG.
• Developing an industrial and manufacturing base to create jobs and reduce reliance on imports.
“This is a defining moment for Papua New Guinea’s economy,” said Prime Minister Marape.
“We are restructuring our fiscal policies to ensure PNG remains an attractive destination for investment while delivering tangible benefits for businesses, workers, and the wider population.”
The Marape-Rosso Government remains focused on building a robust, sustainable economy that supports private sector growth, employment creation, and long-term prosperity for Papua New Guinea.
mission includes coordinating intelligence, investigations, and prosecutions related to ML and asset recovery.
The committee will meet monthly and support the Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP) agreed upon by the National Coordinating Committee (NCC) and the Asia Pacific Group Secretariat.
The AMLJTF’s establishment marks PNG’s commitment to addressing money laundering and corruption. By fostering collaboration and adhering to FATF standards, the taskforce aims to safeguard PNG’s economic stability and global reputation.
“Let us work together to uphold the rule of law, enhance our global standing, and build a safer, more prosperous Papua New Guinea,” Baulch concluded.
Westpac is proud to reaffirm its position as a pioneer in financial services across the Pacific by continuing its long-standing partnership with Verifone, a global leader in payment technology. This partnership, established in 2016, underscores Westpac’s commitment to delivering innovative and efficient payment solutions to businesses in Papua New Guinea.
As the first to market with Verifone terminals, Westpac is already leading the way in the Pacific region. We will further enhance our offerings by introducing an uplifted version of our Point of Sale (POS) solutions, ensuring that our customers continue to benefit from the latest technology and innovations by the end of 2025.
This strategic move solidifies Westpac’s leadership in the Pacific region, leveraging its extensive relationship with Verifone to deliver market-leading solutions. Westpac intends to uplift its financial offerings with these advanced technologies, ensuring businesses have access to the most sophisticated payment tools available. Westpac’s investment in this partnership highlights its dedication to supporting local businesses by providing them with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive market.
The partnership with Verifone has enabled Westpac to offer a comprehensive suite of payment solutions that support multiple payment methods, including credit/ debit cards and contactless payments. Verifone’s mobile POS devices allow businesses to process payments on the go, making them ideal for retail spaces, restaurants, and other mobile environments. Westpac also offers multicurrency EFTPOS and settlement into foreign currency accounts, a market differentiator that supports Papua New Guinea’s diverse business needs. Additionally, the Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) feature enhances the shopping experience for tourists and international clients.
In addition to the existing functionalities, Westpac is set to introduce
enhanced POS integration capabilities and an online reporting portal as part of the upcoming uplifted functionalities. This will provide businesses with a more streamlined and efficient way to manage their transactions, access detailed reports, and optimise their operations. The integration will enable seamless communication between POS systems and Westpac’s payment solutions, while the online portal will offer real-time insights and analytics to help businesses make informed decisions. Westpac’s Verifone solutions bring increased efficiency, enhanced security, and significant time savings to businesses. The company has listened to the needs of businesses and responded with valuable solutions that meet their evolving requirements. Westpac is committed to continuously improving and expanding its payment
solutions, ensuring that businesses in Papua New Guinea remain competitive and thrive in the global market.
“We are proud of our long-standing partnership with Verifone, which has enabled us to bring marketleading technology to Papua New Guinea,” said Warren Bobin, Westpac’s Acting Chief Executive. “Our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction drives our efforts to continuously improve and expand our payment solutions, ensuring that businesses in Papua New Guinea remain competitive and thrive in the global market.”
By reinforcing its position as a trusted financial partner in the Pacific region, Westpac underscores its dedication to supporting the growth and success of local businesses through innovative payment solutions.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea experienced a remarkable year for gold production in 2024, with exports soaring by 14.8% during the first three quarters compared to the same period in 2023, according to the latest PNG Westpac Wailis Economic for February 2025 Report.
Based on the report, PNG exported 34,200 tonnes of gold, with the export value increasing by an impressive 47% to K9.2 billion.
This surge in exports was driven by strong global gold prices and the revival of Porgera mine, which resumed production last year. December alone saw K1.4 billion worth of gold exported to Australia for refining, bringing PNG’s total gold exports to Australia in 2024 to K9.7 billion, a 50.8% increase from K6.4 billion in 2023.
Global gold prices surged to unprecedented levels in 2024, with analysts expecting this robust trend to continue into 2025. Westpac Economics forecasts gold to reach $2,870 per ounce in Q1 2025, with the possibility of short-term spikes higher before easing to $2,850 per ounce by year-end. Prices are expected to stabilize before climbing again in 2026.
The rise in gold prices has been fueled by global economic uncertainty, rising US tariffs, and unpredictable policy decisions from the Trump administration, making gold an increasingly attractive safe-haven asset.
The World Gold Council reported that global gold demand (excluding over-the-counter transactions) rose by 1.4% in 2024 to 4,553.7 tonnes, with total demand including OTC transactions at 4,975 tonnes. Investment-related gold demand jumped by 24.7%, while central banks continued their strong purchasing trend, acquiring 1,044.6 tonnes last year.
Although demand for gold jewellery declined by 8.6% due to China’s economic slowdown, India remained a strong buyer. Meanwhile, technology-related gold demand increased
by 6.9%, with electronics demand rising 8.8% to 270.6 tonnes. The report shows that PNG’s gold sector remains well-positioned for another strong year in 2025, with global prices expected to remain high and an expansion of gold projects driving growth in this sector. As such, the performance of Porgera and other mining operations will
be key determinate of the country’s export earnings and the overall economic contribution from gold production.
Economic analysts will be closely watching gold price movements and global market conditions as PNG continues to capitalize on the strong demand for its most valuable export commodity.
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Papua New Guinea’s PNGX Group Limited and Fiji’s South Pacific Stock Exchange Pte Limited (SPX) have announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an integrated Trading Platform and Central Securities Depository solution.
This initiative aims to enhance the capital markets of Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the broader South Pacific region, the exchanges said in a statement in March.
The RFP follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2025, aimed at exploring technology-sharing opportunities and committing to innovation and sustainability within the region’s capital markets.
This renewed partnership builds on a prior MOU from December 2019, further deepening cooperation between the two exchanges.
Under the MOU, PNGX Group and SPX outlined several key areas for exploration:
1. Technology Infrastructure Development: Joint initiatives will be pursued to create integrated platforms for trading, clearing, settlement, registration, and digital presence across both exchanges.
2. Shared Technology Platforms: Both exchanges plan to operate on shared technology platforms, leveraging operational synergies to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and the global appeal of the capital markets in the South Pacific.
The focus of the RFP is to adopt a single integrated, end-to-end trading platform and central securities depository solution, either from a single provider or a consortium, to facilitate the operations of both PNGX and SPX markets.
David Lawrence, Chairman of PNGX Group, commented: “PNGX and SPX are seeking to bring to reality the joint vision of developing a regional capital market underpinned by robust technology that is fit for purpose for our markets.”
Sheraj Obeyesekere, CEO of SPX, expressed that the initiative “represents a forward-looking approach to capital market development in the Pacific.”
“A unified technology platform has the potential to reshape how our markets operate and engage with investors, both locally and globally,” he said.
Nitin Gandhi, Chair of SPX, added: “This collaboration marks a pivotal step toward integrating and strengthening capital markets in Fiji and Papua New Guinea. Together, we are committed to unlocking new opportunities and driving economic progress across the region.”
Lawrence added: “Our enhanced partnership underscores a vision to provide resilient market infrastructure, foster the sustainability of both exchanges, and promote long-term investment in the region.”
Qualified potential system providers interested in the RFP can contact either PNGX or SPX for further information.
NiuDeck from PNG Forest
Products is a cost-effective heavy plywood decking system, purpose designed and engineered for re-decking traditional timber and steel bridges for road, wharf and rail applications. With a treatment warranty of 50+ years, NiuDeck requires little maintenance due to PNGFP’s unique veneer preservation treatment, which ensures complete protection from termites, fungal decay and rotting. Quick and easy to install, the product’s durability and longevity are further enhanced with the application of a bitumen surface. Another great advantage of NiuDeck is its facility to widen existing bridges through the use of cantilevers. This allows for the provision of pedestrian walkways or wider lanes for vehicle safety. The product’s light weight and ease of installation adds to the cost savings with ease of transport and shortened
installation time, making NiuDeck a far more cost-effective solution than other building materials such as concrete and steel.
NiuDeck is manufactured from 100% sustainable PNG plantation pine and capitalises on the advantages of natural timber, which is not subject to fatigue failure, unlike other materials such as steel and concrete. Suitable for a range of load conditions including Austroads T44 and AS 5100 Bridge Design, NiuDeck is used widely by local and state governments in Australia and New Zealand due to the product’s superior strength, light weight, durability, flexibility, fast installation time and low cost. The peak body for the timber industry in Queensland has welcomed these products as a demonstration of the versatility and innovation of using Engineered Wood Products in bridge
construction. “Using prefabricated timber systems in bridges is gaining greater market recognition due to their inherent strength, light weight and low carbon emissions footprint compared to other construction materials”, said the CEO of Timber Queensland, Mick Stephens.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Papua New Guinea has looked towards ambitious development goals with Vision 2050 aimed to transform the country with the construction industry playing a pivotal role.
These include billions of kina invested annually in infrastructure across the country, thus the stakes are too high for business-as-usual for government agencies, private sector clients, and development partners.
In PNG, the story of construction projects often follows a frustratingly familiar script: contracts are awarded, funds disbursed, and expectations set high — only for projects to be plagued by delays, cost blowouts, substandard quality, and eventually never seeing completion.
This cycle of disappointment has eroded trust in the construction sector, leaving government agencies, businesses, and communities grappling with unfinished or poorly executed infrastructure.
Construction contractors in PNG face a complex web of issues that undermine project delivery. The root causes are multifaceted. A significant factor is the lack of technical expertise among some local contractors, which hampers their ability to manage complex projects effectively. Compounded by poor financial management, many firms struggle with budgeting, leading to incomplete projects when funds run dry.
Moreover, non-compliance with building standards, whether due to cost-cutting measures or limited awareness, results in safety hazards and inferior construction. This is exacerbated by corruption and mismanagement, with some contractors overcharging or failing to deliver on contractual obligations.
Complicating matters are supply chain disruptions, logistics, labor shortages, restrictions in FX (foreign exchange) and inconsistent government policies, which create additional hurdles for contractors trying to stay on schedule and within budget. Legal disputes over
contracts are common, and the slow pace of PNG’s legal system only adds to the frustration of stakeholders seeking accountability.
However, amid these persistent challenges, companies like PNG CR Services are setting a new standard -- proving that projects can be delivered on time, within budget, and with exceptional quality, even in the country’s most remote regions.
“Delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality isn’t just a goal for us, it is our standard operating procedure. It is what separates us,” said Allan Tyson, Managing Director for PNG CR Services.
PNG CR Services’ projects can be tracked to Port Moresby, where the company is currently working on a project by the Australian High Commission-PNG to deliver accommodation for the Pacific Policing Initiative Regional Centre of Excellence, which draws training participation from across the region. Another project is with Abt Associates in the Morehead Agri-College in Western Province.
The team at PNG CR Services is committed to delivering high-quality, durable, and resilient infrastructure solutions, Tyson said.
“The progress of this project reflects the company’s commitment to deliver its services up to the required standard, quality, on time. The project also highlights the importance of environmentally friendly construction methods through the reuse and repurposing of materials,” he added.
While the country’s infrastructure challenges may seem endemic, PNG CR Services offers a refreshing counter-narrative. Unlike many contractors that rely heavily on large foreign workforces and neglect local capacity-building, the company’s model is rooted in national content.
Remarkably, only 5% of their direct staff are from the company
headquarters, while the vast majority of construction workers and tradespeople are recruited from local villages and communities near project sites. Moreover, 10% of the workforce is female, and PNG CR focuses on a total inclusive working environment to provide opportunities for the disabled.
Localizing the workforce not only reduces costs associated with fly-in-fly-out (FIFO) labor, but also fosters community ownership and economic empowerment. By tapping local talent, PNG CR Services ensures that projects are completed, embraced, and maintained by the communities they serve.
“We have built a reputation for meeting client expectations with limited variations or cost increases unless there’s a formal change in project scope. Our success comes from robust project management, transparent financial practices, and a deep respect for the local workforce,” Tyson added.
PNG CR Services’ track record offers critical lessons for the country’s construction sector. Their success underscores the importance of:
• Strong Project Management: Effective scheduling, resource allocation, and risk mitigation are key to avoiding delays and cost overruns.
• Financial Discipline: Transparent budgeting and sound financial controls prevent the mismanagement of funds, a common pitfall for many contractors.
• Community Engagement: Involving local communities not only reduces labor costs but also enhances project sustainability.
• Adherence to Standards: Commitment to safety and quality regulations ensures durable infrastructure that serves its purpose for years to come.
PNG’s 50th Independence Jubilee marks the time for country’s construction sector to move beyond excuses and deliver the infrastructure that communities deserve –and PNG CR Services is leading the way.
Port Moresby, NCD - Steamships Trading Company (Steamships) and Laba Holdings Limited (Laba) are pleased to announce the formal establishment of Hebamo Transport Limited (HTL), a dedicated landside logistics company specialising in project cargo and heavy transport.
This milestone follows 14 months of collaboration since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two partners at the 2023 Sydney Investment Conference, culminating in the execution of the Shareholders Agreement. The joint venture, structured as a 51%49% partnership with Laba holding the majority stake, is now operational and positioned to play a key role in the downstream construction phase of the Papua LNG Project.
Hebamo Transport Limited was formed to provide specialised transport solutions for major resource projects, ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective movement of materials and equipment. With
the Papua LNG Project entering its critical construction phase, the demand for reliable logistics services has never been greater. Hebamo is uniquely positioned to meet this demand by combining Steamships’ industry-leading expertise and infrastructure with Laba’s deep-rooted landowner participation and local knowledge.
Chief Executive Officer of Laba Holdings, Isikeli Taureka, expressed confidence in the venture, stating:
“It has taken over a year of dedicated planning and partnership to bring Hebamo Transport Limited to life, and we are proud to see it officially operational. This joint venture is a testament to our commitment to ensuring landowner participation in the economic opportunities of the downstream component of the Papua LNG project at Papa Lealea. It is not just about business—it is about creating sustainable benefits, employment, and skills development for our people - project impacted landowners.”
Steamships General Manager of Corporate Affairs, Vele Rupa affirms: “We are excited to formalise our partnership with Laba through Hebamo Transport Limited. Steamships has a long history of delivering best-in-class logistics solutions in PNG, and this venture strengthens our ability to support large-scale infrastructure projects like Papua LNG Project. Our shared goal is to ensure efficiency, reliability, and local content development in the project’s supply chain.”
With Hebamo Transport Limited now operational, the company is ready to mobilise project cargo and heavy transport services, supporting not only Papua LNG but also future major infrastructure projects across Papua New Guinea. The joint venture represents a new benchmark for industry-landowner collaboration, setting the foundation for long-term economic growth and local business development.
By: ROSELYN EREHE
South Pacific International Academy (SPIA) has achieved great results in its first-ever Grade 8 national exams, with nearly half of its students earning Academic Excellence scores, the school said in a statement.
Out of the 17 students who sat for the exams, SPIA said eight were recognized for Academic Excellence, while the remaining students performed well within the Merit category.
“These results mark a proud moment for SPIA, as these students, many of whom have been part of the school for years, are the pioneers entering Grade 9 in 2025,” it added.
SPIA follows a rigorous international curriculum based on the American education system, and focused on providing education at the international scale, preparing students to be competitive at that level.
According to Pastor Matt Allen, the Chairman of the School Board at SPIA, the graduates of this curriculum have gone on to prestigious careers in the United States, including serving as senators, physicians, and nuclear scientists.
Pastor Allen shared: “These results were surprising to the Education Department because it was our first time to take the exams, and for that
reason, they delayed giving the results back to us,” he said.
The students found the exam to be quite easy, since they were already studying concepts beyond this level, he said. The school and administration plan to continue to push its students to the international level of education.
SPIA believes its students will continue to excel and make a significant impact in Papua New Guinea and beyond, with such a strong foundation.
“We are very proud of our students who undoubtedly will go on to be the best in the nation,” Allen added.
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Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – Steamships Hospitality and Coral Sea Hotels are proud to acknowledge the Grand Papua Hotel and Gateway Hotel and Apartments who both have achieved the SafeHotels Certification, the world’s leading safety and security certification.
SafeHotels is the first independent, global Hotel Safety and Security Certification providing certification standards based on best practice, safety, security and hygiene globally.
Undertaking the immense task of SafeHotels certification illustrates Steamships Hospitality and Coral Sea Hotels’ unwavering commitment to comfort, hygiene, safety and security of both our colleagues and guests. SafeHotels is about a passion for hotels and a passion for the highest standards of safety, security and hygiene when staying in a hotel. Standards are independently set through a world leading Certification program including on-site assessments by experts with years of knowledge and understanding of hotels across the globe.
The Grand Papua is the first hotel to be certified, let alone achieving Premium status, in all of Australasia and The Pacific Islands. Gateway Hotel and Apartments have also received certification. Steamships Hospitality is now embarking on certification across all properties across Papua New Guinea.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have achieved the certifications on the first attempt,” said Steamships Hospitality CEO, Alan Christie “On average, only one in five hotels achieve certification and even smaller achieve Premium certification in their first assessment, and I cannot commend the teams at Grand Papua Hotel and The Gateway Hotel and Apartments for their commitment over the past few months to achieving
Patrons who choose to stay at the Grand Papua Hotel and Gateway Hotel and Apartments will now have peace of mind, that their chosen hospitality venue has undergone and completed a rigorous checklist, to ensure that all possible measures have been taken to ensure customers well-being,
and that each hotel has thought through its Safety, Security and Hygiene programs from prevention to crisis management; setting us apart from our competitors, locally, nationally and internationally.
Steamships Limited strive for excellence with safety first, and always in all our operations.
Conveniently located in the central business area, the new premise will enable Swire Shipping to be closer to its customers, partners and the community
Port Moresby – Swire Shipping recently announced its move to a new office location in the central business area, at Gordons Business Centre, commemorating this milestone with a celebration attended by over 70 guests comprising of key customers, business partners and suppliers. The move to a new, enhanced office space demonstrates Swire Shipping’s commitment to the Papua New Guinea (PNG) market in the long-term. In addition, the new premise is strategically located in the proximity of local businesses, enabling Swire Shipping to be closer to its customers, partners and the community.
Guests were welcomed with a traditional dance performance. Swire Shipping’s Chief Executive Officer, Jeremy Sutton and Chief Commercial Officer, Randy Selvaratnam commemorated the official opening of the new office with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Opening the event, Jeremy underlined Swire Shipping’s commitment to the South Pacific region. “Swire Shipping has been in business in the Asia-Pacific for over 150 years,” he said. “Over the years, we have established ourselves as a leading shipping company in the Asia-Pacific, with a reputation for safety, integrity, and reliability. This has been made possible by our dedicated teams on the ground, and a relentless focus on service and reliability that resonates with our customers.
“In the South Pacific, today Swire Shipping has over 20 offices strategically located throughout the region. We expanded our presence over the years to provide even better support to our customers and the communities here. Most recently, in 2022, we opened a new branch office in Tonga,” he added. “Our teams on the ground have worked tirelessly to create better experiences for our customers by offering fixed-day weekly and fortnightly on-time services. Through these efforts, we are delighted to be the most reliable carrier on the trade lanes between Asia and Oceania in 2024, according to SeaIntelligence. We look forward to building stronger
relationships and creating lasting value for our customers and all whom we work with.”
Expanding on the significance of the PNG market, Country Manager – PNG, Isabel Maguire said, “Swire Shipping has deep roots in PNG; we have been shipping into and out of the country for more than 80 years. Today, we have nine offices in PNG, having opened our latest in Wewak in 2023. Throughout the years, we have built a strong reputation in PNG as a consistent and dependable company that prioritises safety and sustainability, and cares about its people, its partners and the local communities. We have lasting relationships with many customers and partners here. PNG is an important market for us, and we look forward to growing our business here, leveraging our presence on the ground to enable our people, customers and partners to succeed.”
Guests were taken on a tour of the new office. One of the highlights of the new workspace is the addition of improved collaboration areas and breakout spaces, designed to encourage interaction between teams and provide room for brainstorming and idea generation. Workstations are also equipped with ergonomic furniture to enhance employee wellbeing and safety.
“People are our greatest assets,” explained Isabel. “By providing a conducive environment and opportunities for collaboration and improved communication between teams, we want to make work more efficient and productive for our people. This in turn will enable us to shorten turnaround times for customer requests and thus help to save our customers’ time.
“We look forward to creating even
better experiences for our customers and nurturing a Tcollaborative and inclusive work environment for our people out of the new office.”
The celebration concluded with mingling over canapes and drinks.
Swire Shipping operates four services into and out of PNG. To better support customers in PNG and the region, the company upgraded its North Asia Express (NAX) service in 2020, and since 2023, offers a market-leading fixed-day weekly service (PWX) between Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. Swire Shipping is committed to doing its part to build a more sustainable future. The company has in place a sustainability strategy and decarbonisation roadmap with defined targets that meet and/or exceed what is required by regulation, and is dedicated to supporting the communities in which it operates. Some of the key projects that Swire Shipping supported in PNG in 2024 include: launch of the Pacific School Furniture Programme in partnership with CPL Foundation, under which Swire Shipping provides freight from Australia to PNG on pro bono basis and facilitates the delivery of school furniture to the schools in need; provision of a grant to Sea Women of Melanesia that enabled the purchase of a 23-foot longboat to be used in training programmes; and donation to Cheshire disAbility Services to fund the purchase of a bus and refurbishment of their existing guardhouse and outdoor stage, so the organisation is better equipped and able to serve children and adults with disabilities in and around Port Moresby.
Averages over 70% (Asia-Oceania & Oceania-Asia) and 80% (Asia-North America West Coast) On-Time Performance based on 12-month data from Sea-Intelligence
Swire Shipping, a leading shipping company in the Asia-Pacific, reaffirmed its commitment to the region as the most reliable carrier in Asia-Oceania and on the Asia to North America West Coast (NAWC) trade lane in 2024. This was according to 12month data published by Sea-Intelligence in their Global Liner Performance Report from Jan/ Feb to Nov/Dec 2024. Swire Shipping averaged over 70% reliability (as measured by On-Time Performance) on the Asia-Oceania and Oceania-Asia trades and over 80% reliability on the Asia-NAWC trade lane.
Swire Shipping’s Chief Operating Officer Ben Pike said, “Swire Shipping has been trading into the South Pacific for over 80 years, and we recently expanded our footprint in the North Pacific through the integration of Westwood Shipping Lines and
our partnership with UWL on the award-winning Sun Chief Express transpacific service.”
”We understand the importance of reliable shipping for businesses, and the provision of predictable and reliable weekly and fortnightly services empowers customers to optimise their supply chains and reduce waiting times,” he added. “Despite challenging conditions, our consistent on-time performance in the Asia-Oceania and Asia-North America West Coast sectors demonstrates our commitment to reliability and placing the needs of our customers first.”
Swire Shipping has been steadily expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific, with the opening of a new branch office in Tokyo in 2024. In 2025 it relocated its Tokyo and Port Moresby offices to new, expanded premises to better serve customers in the region.
“Our customers have come to
depend on us to ensure that their goods arrive on time and make the right intermodal connections,” said Randy Selvaratnam, Chief Commercial Officer of Swire Shipping. “In Japan we now have an expanded team, and plan to open a second office in Nagoya this summer. In South Korea we have consolidated our representation on the ground into one agency. With dedicated teams in Japan, South Korea and Puyallup, Washington, we are confident that we can continue to maintain a strong and consistent schedule performance and provide our customers with an even better service experience in 2025.”
The Sea-Intelligence Global Liner Shipping Report is the industry’s most comprehensive study of ocean liner schedule reliability, measuring schedule reliability and vessel delays across all deep-sea liner services in the world.
Nick van Voorst is an Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 0640648), a Registered Education Agent (M042), and the owner of Coral Coast Migration Service.
Nick studied Australian Migration Law at Griffith University in Brisbane and has been working as a Registered Migration Agent since 2006. He is a member of the Migration Institute of Australia and is based in Cairns.
The company provides professional advice for people wishing to apply for an Australian Visa, and specialises in Student, Tourist, Employer Sponsored, General Skilled, Partner and other Family Visas, as well as Australian Citizenship Applications.
A Registered Migration Agent will make sure that a person’s application is well presented, professionally prepared, and meets all requirements. The agent will assist with the completion of all necessary forms, collating of documents, preparation of submissions and the lodgement of your application.
The agent will likewise monitor the progress of the application and provide ongoing advice and liaise with the Department of Home Affairs on the client’s behalf.
All Australian Registered Migration Agents must have Immigration Law qualifications and must abide by a strict Code of Conduct. Coral Coast offers reasonable, fixed fees, agreed upon in advance, excellent, regular communication, support and feed-back.
• Enrolments with selected education providers
• Medical insurance
• Student and student guardian visa
• Partner, skilled and employer sponsored visas
• Citizenship
Coral Coast Migration Service are Registered Education Agents and represent Education Queensland International and Cairns College of Business and English. We can assist with enrolments in other colleges and universities around Australia.
Education Queensland International has schools in Cairns, Townsville, the Fraser Coast, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Cost and Brisbane.
Trinity Bay State High School in Cairns provides some courses that may be of special interest to students from PNG.
With a commitment to academic, social, and personal development in junior and senior high school, Trinity Bay SHS is a place where every PNG student can thrive.
EXCELLENCE PROGRAMS:
Trinity Bay SHS offers a range of specialised programs to nurture talent and support students’ unique interests:
• Rugby League Excellence Program (Years 7–12), led by Shannon Riles, whose father was the first ever coach for the PNG Kumuls; Rod Griffin, a former PNG Kumuls professional rugby league player, who mentors students to reach their athletic potential; and Jenni-Sue Hoepper, former PNG Orchid, Australian Jillaroo and first ever winner of the NRLW Dally M Award.
• Science Excellence Academy (Years 7–10), fostering curiosity and innovation.
• Performing Arts Centre of Artistic Development (Years 7–12), including Dance, Drama, Music, and Technical Theatre.
• Visual Arts Industries (Years 7–12), providing hands-on experiences with industry mentoring.
• Talented Athlete Academy (Years
7–9), promoting fitness and sportsmanship.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:
Beyond the classroom, Trinity Bay SHS students thrive with opportunities to participate in the Cairns community.
WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES:
The Trinity Bay SHS campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including:
• A modern STEAM building for interdisciplinary learning.
• University-grade science laboratories and a stargazing laboratory.
• A dedicated Performing Arts complex and art gallery.
• An advanced sports complex and fully equipped gymnasium.
• Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses
PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS
Trinity Bay SHS prepares students for bright futures, offering seamless transitions to tertiary education. Collaborations with James Cook University ensure students benefit from real-world science projects.
Trinity Bay State High RTO 30446 provides current vocational education in areas of interest to PNG students such as hospitality, business and financial services.
For more information you can contact Nick van Voorst:
Migration Agent Registration Number: 0640648
P: +61 7 40541485
M: +61 412 398765
E: info@ccms.net.au www.ausvisa.net.au
Digicel PNG recently announced a major milestone in its mission to enhance connectivity across Papua New Guinea. Since April 2022, Digicel PNG has significantly expanded its network, reaching all 21 provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, enabling more Papua New Guineans to get connected.
Over the past two years, Digicel PNG has built 115 new mobile towers and upgraded 96 mobile towers to 4G LTE, achieving a 20% increase in its 4G LTE coverage, thereby solidifying its position as the largest 4G network in the country. This expansion has resulted in the network covering over 80% of the population of Papua New Guinea, including both rural areas and major urban centers such as Port Moresby, Lae, Mt Hagen, Wewak, and Kokopo.
”This expansion underscores
Digicel PNG’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering economic and social development across Papua New Guinea,” said Tarik Boudiaf, CEO of Digicel PNG.
”By extending our mobile network to all 21 provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, we are making significant strides towards enabling every Papua New Guinean to get access to reliable and highspeed internet. Digicel has the largest network coverage in the country.”
The deployment of new towers has been strategically balanced across the Highlands region, in Momase, in NGI, and in the Southern region, bringing the new coverage to almost a million people.
”We recognize the critical role that connectivity plays in today’s digital age,” continued Tarik Boudiaf. ”Our new builds and upgrades, especially targeting rural areas, help to ensure
that remote communities are not left behind. In fact, the majority of our mobile network upgrades have been concentrated in the Momase and Southern regions, with the New Guinea Islands and Highlands regions also benefiting significantly.”
”By investing in our network infrastructure, we are not just improving connectivity; we are contributing to the overall development of Papua New Guinea,” added Tarik Boudiaf. ”Whether it’s through facilitating better communication, supporting remote education, or enabling digital commerce, our network plays a vital role in the nation’s progress.”
This expansion is part of Telstra’s commitment to Papua New Guinea, following its acquisition of Digicel Pacific in July 2022. This acquisition reflects Telstra’s dedication to supporting sustainable economic growth in the Pacific region.
Sago Network has appointment Mr Douveri Henao as Patron for the community development organisation, which focuses on improving the health of Papua New Guinea’s villages through water, sanitation and hygiene programmes.
Henao officially agreed to the 2-year role on 25th February 2025, Sago Network said in a statement.
Sago Network’s board of directors honours Henao with this unprecedented role of Patron, for his consistent support of Sago Network’s community work over the past 10 years.
It was during the Barakau Sanitation Programme in 2015 that Sago Network first benefitted from Henao’s generosity, hospitality and wisdom.
It was also during that programme that Henao came to see, first hand, the love Sago Network has for the people of Papua New Guinea and its unyielding commitment to try and help lift standard of living through water and sanitation advancements.
“Sago Network combines two important relationships. First: Smart
people applying smart solutions. The combination of local knowledge and STEM skills in WASH is critical for nation building. Second: a new generation of Australia-PNG professionals investing in our nations’ special relationship. Ideas, debates and laughs must be the focus, and this is what Sago Network inspires. I look forward enhancing these relationships vital for our livelihoods,” said Henao.
Since its inception in 2008, Sago Network has partnered with 97 villages, providing safe sanitation options to approximately 7,500 individuals
and safe drinking water to more than 35,000 people.
Henao’s agreement to become Sago Network’s first Patron celebrates their shared commitment to improve lives for the people of Papua New Guinea.
“With Henao’s support to promote the work of Sago Network, the organisation is energised to continue in its mission to improve health and wellbeing of the people of Papua New Guinea through water, sanitation and health initiatives in collaboration with rural and remote communities,” the group said.
We o er;
• Short term rentals (Self Drive & Chauffeur)
• Long term leasing (12 months - 36 months)
• Safe and affordable staff transportation
• Chauffeur drive service with professional drivers
• Airport transfers
By: ROSELYN EREHE
Green Hills Accommodation Village is your ideal destination, located just 5 minutes from Motukea Wharf and 8 minutes from the Port Moresby CBD. Designed to cater to business travelers, corporate groups and individuals, Green Hills offers an all-inclusive stay with no extra charges for daily meals and laundry, plus a full range of services, all in one convenient location.
Due to its convenient location close to two main business hubs and its all-inclusive rates, many corporates - such as Santos, Consort and P&O Shipping – as well as large groups and sporting teams, rely on Green Hills to accommodate their staff for short and long-term stays – from juniors through to Executives. Bookings and packages can be tailored to suit, with hassle-free bookings for additions such as Airport transfers, use of a meeting or conference room, and catering. Our clients keep coming back as Green Hills offers affordable accommodation that is comfortable and secure, and reliable.
Green Hills Accommodation Village now operates under the banner of ‘Green Hills Hospitality Services Limited’ - a strategic joint venture between two well-known and reputable businesses: Peuna and PNG CR Services. Peuna brings a wealth of experience in facility management and catering services, while PNGCR brings to the table facility ownership and construction and maintenance capability. This partnership ensures high-quality service, top-tier security, and international hospitality standards for all guests.
Green Hills Accommodation ticks the boxes of affordable, comfortable and fully serviced accommodation.
With 83 well-appointed rooms, Green Hills Accommodation Village offers:
• 71 Standard Rooms – 370 PGK + GST per night
• 12 Premium Rooms – 430 PGK + GST per night
• Executive Suite for a luxurious stay
• A conference / training room.
All room rates include:
• Buffet meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) in a restaurant with international food safety (HACCP – ISO2200) certification.
• Unlimited Wi-Fi
• Laundry services
• Daily housekeeping
• Access to recreational spaces, outdoor gym & basketball court
• Conference room, with catering services available
PREMIUM ROOMS ADDED
LUXURY & PERKS
Guests who opt for a Premium Room enjoy exclusive benefits such as:
• Daily amenities service
• Workspace
• In-room espresso machine with coffee pods
• Beverage vouchers for each night of stay
DINING & SOCIAL SPACES
The restaurant has international food safety certification (HACCP –ISO22000) and serves buffet meals with quick service for busy professionals.
If guests prefer a wind down, the on-site Fairfax Bar opens on Monday to Friday (4:30 PM – 9:30 PM) and extended hours on weekends, serving a range of beverages to choose from.
There is always something to look forward to at Green Hill’s Fairfax Bar – a friendly bar perfect for unwinding after a hard day with a view of the Fairfax harbour, great sunset vistas and icey-cold beer. If you ever want to catch a game you can be sure it will be showing on our big screen. Fairfax has different offerings throughout the week such as:
• Friday Pizza Night – the team will make you a bespoke pizza from our selection of toppings and cook it right there and then.
• ‘Sunday Specials’ - a great way to
step out in the afternoon for Hot dogs and burgers topped off with live entertainment.
• Saturday night barbeques which provide an opportunity to step outside and network to further grow guests’ connections.
• Even for the last Saturdays of every month, there is a live entertainment and a chance to show off your karaoke skills!
If you are a coffee and chat type of person, the Green Hills Village has Bunka Café, a perfect spot for meetings over coffee.
Guest safety is priority at the Green Hills Accommodation Village having 24/7 security provided by G4S and an additional security firm, ensuring a safe and peaceful environment.
Several leisure options are provided for guests, including a track walk around the area, gym sessions, and basket games.
For hassle-free travel, we offer airport transfers through National Security Service (NSS), a trusted service with armed escorts to guarantee your safety from arrival to departure.
Green Hills offers customized packages for large groups, with no extra allowances or ‘per diems’ required! Our all-inclusive pricing provides significant savings compared to other accommodation options.
Whether you’re in Port Moresby for work, meetings, or long-term projects, Green Hills Accommodation Village ensures a comfortable, secure, and hassle-free experience.
For bookings and inquiries, contact Green Hills Hospitality Services Limited today and experience the best corporate accommodation!
With support from Chow Foundation in partnership with Buk Bilong Pikinini
In a significant step toward improving early childhood education in Papua New Guinea, a brand-new Early Library Learning Central has officially opened through the generous support of Lae Biscuit Company Ltd through its charity arm, The Chow Foundation, in partnership with Buk Bilong Pikinini.
This initiative aims to provide young children with access to quality books, learning materials, and literacy programs, helping to lay a strong foundation for their future education.
The Early Library Learning Central located at the St Steven Catholic School in Lae will service the 3mile area for early childhood literacy, digital learning and interactive storytelling sessions, ensuring children develop a love for reading and learning from an early age.
Speaking at the opening, Mr John Chow, Managing Director of Lae Biscuit Company Ltd and The Chief Executive Officer of The Chow Foundation,
emphasized the company’s commitment to community development.
“Education is a collective responsibility, and today, we celebrate the power of partnerships. This centre is not just a building—it represents hope, opportunity, and progress. It is a testament to what can be achieved when the government, the private sector, community organizations, and families work together towards a common goal,” Chow said.
“It is the key to a brighter future, and we are proud to support this initiative that will empower young minds. Through the Chow Foundation, we are dedicated to giving back to our communities and ensuring that every child has access to quality learning resources,” he added.
Buk Bilong Pikinini, a leading non-profit organization promoting literacy in PNG, expressed gratitude for the partnership, highlighting the importance of corporate support in bridging the education gap.
The Early Library Learning Central is part of an ongoing effort to enhance literacy rates and create opportunities for underprivileged children across the country. With continued support from the private sector and organizations like Buk Bilong Pikinini, the future of education in PNG looks promising.
Unveils New ISP Brand, MaxiNET
The Remington Group has officially launched OFC Tech Solutions in Papua New Guinea, marking a new era of innovative ICT, telecommunications, and enterprise solutions for businesses across the country.
OFC Tech Solutions, a 100% PNG-owned company, specialises in high-speed internet, unified communications (NEC-certified PABX systems), cybersecurity, data analytics, and enterprise IT solutions, providing world-class technology tailored for PNG businesses.
The highly anticipated launch event, attended by industry leaders, business executives, and technology enthusiasts, took an exciting turn with a surprise product reveal—the introduction of MaxiNET, OFC Tech Solutions’ new ISP brand.
MaxiNET promises to deliver highspeed, low-price, best-value internet, addressing the growing demand for affordable and reliable connectivity across the country.
Remington Group CEO Navin Raju highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating:
“The launch of OFC Tech Solutions marks a bold step forward in Papua New Guinea’s digital transformation.”
“For 78 years, the Remington Group has evolved with technology, and today, we further strengthen our commitment to innovation,” he said.
“OFC Tech Solutions is more than just an IT provider—we are a trusted partner, delivering cutting-edge solutions in unified communications, cybersecurity, data analytics, and enterprise IT,” Raju said.
“With the introduction of MaxiNET, we’re ensuring businesses and individuals in PNG have access to highspeed, affordable, and reliable internet. Together, we are shaping a smarter, more connected future for Papua New Guinea,” he added.
Industry experts also took the stage with Kevin Jesop from IBM speaking on unlocking the power of AI, while Dr.
Amit Chaubey from NIAD Technologies shared insights into the future of cybersecurity.
The event also featured product showcases and live demonstrations of OFC Tech Solutions’ services.
With the launch, the Remington Group continues its commitment to driving PNG’s digital transformation, empowering businesses with cutting-edge solutions, and ensuring that technology is both accessible and impactful for Papua New Guineans.
For more information, visit www.ofctech. com.pg or follow OFC Tech Solutions on social media for the latest updates.
PNG Ports Corporation (PNG Ports), the dominant port operator and marine pilotage leader in Papua New Guinea, has raised the standard of PNG’s pilotage services following a programme of LNG tanker training undertaken in Port Moresby and Brisbane. Theoretical, practical, and simulator training finessed the skillsets of six of PNG Ports’ most experienced pilots, two of whom already pilot LNG tankers, and all of whom have vast experience on multiple vessel types.
PNG Ports’ pilots have serviced the Caution Bay LNG terminal operated by ExxonMobil PNG Limited since 2014 when the country first commenced its LNG exports. Crucial to PNG’s developing economy, the LNG sector contributes significantly to the nation’s GDP, with Caution Bay currently the sole terminal for this highly important export.
Under an MOU with ExxonMobil PNG Limited, PNG Ports is committed to training and certifying pilots through PNG’s National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) to meet regulatory standards.
The six pilots who’ve recently received training, constitute both a ‘pool’ and a ‘pipeline’ of LNG tanker pilotage talent. Two of the pilots are already experienced LNG tanker pilots and another two have received all necessary training and assessment and are just waiting to be signed off. The remaining two pilots, who have undertaken the first stage of the LNG
training programme, are continuing to progress and are expected to achieve competency in the near future.
The LNG training programme was developed and overseen by McGuire Maritime. Chief Operating Officer of PNG Ports, Felix Bauri, described the simulator training component, conducted at the Smartship Australia simulator centre in Brisbane, as “especially critical for LNG pilotage and particularly so for a country like PNG which is so dependent on LNG exports.” He added that “simulator training is also the only way a pilot can be consistently trained in a range of contingencies and emergencies such as steering failure or tug error, as well as in adverse weather conditions.”
Bauri reported that additional pilots will continue to be identified for the LNG training in line with business continuity planning. This is timely given that the Nation’s LNG output (and therefore exports) is set to increase with the imminence of its second major LNG project, the Total led Papua LNG development, as well as the ExxonMobil led P’nyang LNG Project.
However, it’s not just an increase in LNG tankers that PNG Ports pilots will need to service but an increase in all manner of vessels. The construction phases of the P’nyang and Papua LNG projects will be associated with a steep increase in large cargo vessels in particular, given that nearly all equipment and materials required for
construction needs to be imported by sea.
“The training our pilots undertake to qualify them for LNG tanker pilotage is of the highest possible international standard” said Bauri. “As such, it more than qualifies them to pilot any type of major vessel that services PNG, not just the LNG tankers. In other words, the LNG training our pilots receive isn’t just good for LNG operators but for any shipping company that calls into PNG because it provides them with a higher quality and safety assured pilotage experience, as well as one that is in full compliance with international maritime regulations.”
CEO Neil Papenfus is adamant that he doesn’t only want to raise the bar when it comes to the training PNG Ports’ pilots receive but all of the country’s pilots. The PNG and Australian governments signed off on a A$621.4 million ‘PNG Ports Infrastructure Programme in 2022, to repair and upgrade seven key ports. Papenfus believes that “one way to protect this investment is to prevent future damage from ship collision, and that this can in part be achieved by having better trained pilots, with improvements in training to be mandated by the NMSA and tied to licensing.” Another mechanism by which Papenfus says vital port infrastructure can be protected is to increase the number of pilotage mandated ports. Only six of PNG’s 23 declared ports are mandated.
Port Moresby Electrical (PME) has successfully completed the integrated electrical and solar system installation for submersible pumps at Goldie Barracks.
This project reflects PME’s expertise in delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality electrical solutions that enhance infrastructure efficiency.
The scope of work included: Design & Approvals: Developed the initial concept, obtained approvals from PNG Power Limited (PPL) and the client, and prepared detailed medium-voltage design documentation. Electrical Infrastructure: Installed a 300 KVA pole transformer as per PPL approval, upgraded existing electrical infrastructure, and implemented medium-voltage and low-voltage distribution networks.
Solar & Pump Integration:
Integrated a solar energy solution into the new low-voltage distribution network to provide renewable energy offsetting for four submersible pumps, ensuring efficiency and sustainability.
Commissioning: Conducted comprehensive testing and commissioning, ensuring the system meets all regulatory standards and operates reliably and efficiently.
In a statement, PME said it is is committed “to delivering advanced energy solutions that support critical infrastructure projects across Papua New Guinea.”
“We take pride in our ability to provide sustainable, high-performance electrical systems that drive long-term value for our clients and communities,” the company added.
For more information on PME’s projects and services, visit www. pmepng.com.
The city’s largest, most prominent digital billboard, located at Paga Point and facing APEC Haus, commanding undivided attention from a diverse range of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The crowning jewel in any advertising portfolio, start here with any campaign.
Ad Works Media
AES
Agmark
APCS
APNG Conference and Expo
Argo Marine
Atlas Steel PNG
Aviat Club
Belt Again Beach Resort
Bishop Brothers
BSP
Budget Car rental
Business for Health
CC Pacific Ltd
Consort
Coral Coast Migration Service
Coral Seas Hotel
Credit Bank
Crossroads Hotel
Crown Hotel
CTRL Print Group
Cypro
Datec
Don Kyatt Group
Dunlop PNG
Eagle Exports
East West Transport
ECM
Ela Motors
Expac
Express
FX
Gamisa Hire Cars
Golden Shipping
Green Hills Accomadition Village
Hertz
Hornibrook NGI
Huon Logistics
Hydraulink Niugini IEA
International SOS iPi
Islands Petroleum
Joint Venture Port Services
Jokema`s Inn
Kenmore Properties
Kina Bank
Komatsu
Kramer Asia Pacific
Lae Biscuit Company
LAE CCI
Lamana Dental Clinic
Life care PNG
Mapai Transport
Marriott Apartments
Moni Plus
Nasfund
National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology
NCI Packaging
Nipco Enterprises
Niugini Assurance
NiuPower
Pacific MMI Insurance Ltd
Pacific Palms Property
Paga Hill Development Company
Petroleum & Energy Conference
PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy
PNG CR
PNG Eden Agriculture Supplies
PNG Embroidery
PNG Forest Products
PNG IBBM
PNG Mining and Industrial Expo
PNG Mining & Petroleum
Hospitality Services
PNG Motors
PNG Solar Supply
Port Moresby Electrical
QED
Remington Technology
Resources & Investment Finance Ltd
Santos
South Pacific International Academy
Steamships
Swire Shipping
TE PNG
Ok Tedi Mining Pacific
Tolu Minerals
Total Waste Management
Trans Niugini Tours
Vodafone
Western Pacific Insurance
Westpac
Zenex Drilling
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