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The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has advised the travelling public and stakeholders that the runway at Hoskins Airport in West New Britain will be further shortened to allow for essential upgrade works, with Stage 4 of the Method of Works Plan (MOWP) expected to commence by the end of the week, subject to the issuance of a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). In a public advisory, NAC said the contractor began the first stage of the runway upgrade in October 2025 and has since completed Stages 2 and 3. Works continued through the festive season to ensure uninterrupted operations for Fokker and similar or smaller aircraft during the peak travel period. “With operations now normalised outside the peak season, preparations are under way to commence Stage Four,” NAC said. The existing runway, which measures 1,900 metres, will be shortened by 490 metres once Stage 4 begins, leaving an available operational length of 1,410 metres. NAC said this will continue to accommodate Q400, ATR, Dash 8 and similar or smaller aircraft types. The corporation noted that the timing of the works will depend on prevailing weather conditions and that any changes to the schedule will be communicated in due course. NAC said the upgrade is critical and will significantly enhance safety, security standards and overall operational performance at Hoskins Airport. The corporation added it is working closely with the contractor to ensure the project progresses smoothly, with minimal disruption, and is completed within the planned timeframe. “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience these temporary restrictions may cause,” NAC said. “We thank the travelling public, airline operators, the business community, the people of West New Britain and Papua New Guinea for their understanding and cooperation as we progress with these important upgrade works.” The advisory was approved for release by Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Airports Corporation Ltd.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited has strengthened its commitment to addressing domestic and family violence in Papua New Guinea by supporting Femili PNG, a leading non-government organisation providing assistance to survivors of violence nationwide. As part of the partnership, Ok Tedi purchased Femili PNG’s locally produced coffee, sourced from the Western Highlands, and distributed the packs as complimentary gifts to delegates at the recent PNG Investment Week conference hosted by the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy in Sydney, Australia. The initiative highlighted both the quality of Papua New Guinea coffee and the critical work undertaken by Femili PNG to support survivors of domestic and family violence. Proceeds from the coffee sales contribute directly to Femili PNG’s case management services, safe accommodation support, outreach programmes and advocacy efforts across the country. “Domestic violence continues to affect far too many families in Papua New Guinea, and we all have a responsibility to be part of the solution,” said Ruth Waram, manager for media and public relations at Ok Tedi. “By supporting Femili PNG through this initiative, Ok Tedi is helping to shine a light on the vital services that Femili PNG provide to survivors. Our purchase of these coffee packs is more than a gesture — it is a statement of solidarity and a commitment towards promoting safer, stronger communities across PNG,” she said. Femili PNG welcomed the support, noting the broader impact of partnerships with the private sector. “We are grateful for Ok Tedi’s support in showcasing our award-winning Femili PNG coffee via this initiative. The support we receive contributes to Femili PNG’s work to end family and sexual violence in PNG,” said Jocelyn Condon, executive director of Femili PNG Australia. “Funds raised from every purchase of coffee directly supports the services Femili PNG provide to survivors who need safety, care, and a pathway to rebuild their lives. Ok Tedi’s support in this initiative, and hopefully into the future, give us all great hope for the potential of business to step forward and resource the movement for positive change for survivors of family and sexual violence in Papua New Guinea,” she said. Ok Tedi said the initiative reflects its broader commitment to social responsibility and supporting programmes that contribute to the wellbeing and safety of communities across Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea has achieved a landmark financial milestone with the PNG LNG Project fully retiring its bank-financed debt six months ahead of schedule, Prime Minister James Marape announced during a site visit to the LNG facilities on 28 December 2025. The repayment marks a major achievement in the country’s economic history and reinforces PNG’s credibility as a destination for large-scale international investment. The project’s total bank obligations of around US$16 billion — comprising US$14 billion in construction costs and US$2 billion in interest — have now been fully repaid. “This complex project, which involved five provinces and more than 60,000 landowners, delivered first gas on time, operated consistently for more than a decade, and has now officially retired its total bank-financed debt earlier than scheduled,” Prime Minister Marape said. “That is a world-class achievement by any measure, particularly for a developing economy.” Marape paid tribute to the late Grand Chief Michael Somare, under whose leadership the project was conceived, negotiated, and advanced to Final Investment Decision in December 2009. He highlighted the political will, policy certainty, and national consensus established during that period, which enabled project agreements — including critical landowner agreements in PDL1, PDL7, and PDL8 — to be executed, allowing construction to begin in 2010. “From concept to construction, to first gas in 2014, and then consistent production through to 2025, PNG LNG has delivered reliably for the country,” Marape said. He emphasised the project’s resilience, noting that it has continued to operate successfully despite natural challenges and human pressures in and around the project areas. The Prime Minister noted that the project was financed during the 2008 global financial crisis, with a consortium of 19 international banks from Europe, Asia, North America, and Australasia raising US$14 billion at a time when global capital was scarce. He underscored the unprecedented scale of the financing relative to PNG’s economy at the time, estimated at K26–K30 billion. “With all bank debt now retired, PNG LNG today stands as a fully unencumbered national asset,” Marape said. “It is a free-standing, world-class asset for the country. This fundamentally strengthens Papua New Guinea’s economic position and our standing with international investors.” The project has already generated more than K33 billion in economic benefits, including revenues, royalties, equity returns, employment, business opportunities, and foreign exchange inflows. Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the leadership of former officials, including Michael Somare, the late Governor Anderson Agiru, and ministers Arthur Somare, William Duma, and Patrick Pruaitch, noting that collective commitment was key to delivering the project. “PNG LNG remains a monumental and economically transformational project for Papua New Guinea,” he said. “It shows the world that PNG can deliver projects of global scale, withstand challenges, honour its commitments, and succeed.” The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to retire all remaining State obligations under the PNG LNG Agreement by the first half of 2026, ensuring the project continues to provide lasting benefits to the nation and its landowners.

The Bougainville Power and Water Corporation Limited (BPWCL) has become one of the first State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) under the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to generate revenue from its own commercial operations following the commissioning of the 1-megawatt Buin Solar Power Plant in South Bougainville. Chief Secretary to the ABG and BPWCL Board Chair, Kearnneth Nanei, described the achievement as a significant step in strengthening Bougainville’s SOE sector, which now falls under his leadership following a departmental restructure that placed SOE functions within the Office of the Chief Secretary. “BPWCL is now one of the first SOEs under the ABG to successfully generate revenue directly from its operations. This demonstrates that Bougainville is building the institutional and technical capability to run commercially viable public utilities that support service delivery and economic growth,” Nanei said. The solar facility, officially commissioned on 16 December 2025, now provides clean and reliable electricity to approximately 250 households, schools, businesses, health facilities, and government services in Buin town and surrounding communities. Nanei highlighted the successful transition of electricity services from the former supplier, Buin Power, to BPWCL, with the latter now fully responsible for operational management and billing. “Through this transition, BPWCL is generating a sustainable revenue stream as an SOE. This marks a major milestone in Bougainville’s economic and institutional development,” he said, acknowledging the cooperation of Buin Power leadership in ensuring continuity of service during the handover. “The Buin solar project is not only about providing reliable electricity. It is about strengthening SOEs to operate responsibly, professionally, and sustainably so they can contribute to Bougainville’s development,” Nanei added. The Buin Solar Plant was funded by the Government of Japan and built by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It integrates solar panels with modern battery storage and backup generation to provide uninterrupted electricity, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support global renewable energy goals. BPWCL is planning to expand power connections in Buin, including to the Buin District Hospital, Buin Teachers College, and Buin Town Market. Workforce development is also a key priority, with training programs to equip Bougainvilleans with the skills to operate and maintain modern renewable energy systems. Further plans include the development of renewable-powered mini-grids for remote communities across Bougainville to increase household electricity access. Mr. Nanei emphasized that reliable energy supply will boost business confidence, improve public services, and attract new investment in South Bougainville. Employment opportunities are expected to grow. “BPWCL currently has ten employees, but this will increase to about twenty this year. Additional opportunities are expected for local businesses in fuel supply, security, and general maintenance,” Mr. Nanei said. Similar renewable energy projects are being considered for Arawa and Buka, pending formal arrangements with PNG Power Limited through a Memorandum of Understanding expected later this year. Communities in Buin have already reported improvements in daily living conditions and economic activity, highlighting the impact of reliable electricity. The ABG commended BPWCL for this milestone, marking a new phase in the development and sustainability of Bougainville’s public utilities.

 Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru will travel to Malaysia to meet the board and management of SD Guthrie to advance discussions on the state’s proposed acquisition of shares in Ramu Agri Industries (RAI). SD Guthrie currently owns New Britain Palm Oil Ltd., which holds interests linked to RAI. The talks are part of the government’s broader strategy to expand RAI’s operations beyond the Ramu Valley, where available land for further development is fully utilised. “The strategic reason behind this acquisition is to expand RAI’s business to other areas in the country because land in Ramu is fully utilised with no room for expansion,” Maru said. “We need to stop the importation of cattle and grow more sugar to replace over US$29 million worth of sugar that we import annually from mainly Thailand and Malaysia. We have the potential as a country to replace sugar imports, create thousands of new jobs in the sugar industry, and be a net exporter.” While in Malaysia, Maru is scheduled to visit SD Guthrie Berhad’s operations. The company is among the world’s largest producers of certified sustainable palm oil. The visit will include briefings on SD Guthrie’s integrated plantation model, research and development capabilities, mechanisation programmes, smallholder support systems, biogas and sustainability initiatives, as well as its downstream refining and processing operations. Maru will also meet with the Malaysian Palm Oil Board to discuss regulatory frameworks, research platforms and technology development initiatives that could inform Papua New Guinea’s own agricultural and agro-industrial development plans. Meanwhile, New Britain Palm Oil Ltd. has formally confirmed it will provide an offer letter and a copy of its valuation report by Jan. 21, 2026, in relation to the state’s proposed acquisition in RAI. Maru said the government will conduct its own valuation and complete all due diligence before making a final decision on the purchase of shares.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Takafumi Kadono as its new country director for Papua New Guinea, with responsibility for leading the bank’s resident mission in Port Moresby and overseeing its development engagement in the country. Kadono assumed office on January 13 and will lead the formulation and implementation of ADB’s next country partnership strategy for Papua New Guinea, guiding support across infrastructure, social services and private sector development. In a statement, Kadono said ADB would continue to work with the Papua New Guinea government to strengthen economic growth and social development through investments in transport and energy, expanded access to health and education services, and measures to improve private sector competitiveness. He also said the bank would work closely with development partners to enhance the inclusivity and resilience of the country’s financial and health systems. ADB is one of Papua New Guinea’s largest financing partners for infrastructure, particularly in the transport and energy sectors. The bank also supports technical and vocational education and training programmes, co-financed by the Australian government, aimed at improving workforce skills and alignment with industry needs. In the health sector, ADB assistance includes policy reforms, investments in health systems and measures to strengthen public financial management. A Japanese national, Kadono brings more than 26 years of international development experience with ADB and the World Bank Group. Prior to his appointment in Papua New Guinea, he served as ADB’s country director for Sri Lanka. Founded in 1966, ADB is a multilateral development bank owned by 69 members, including 50 from Asia and the Pacific. It focuses on promoting inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth through financing, technical assistance and partnerships across the region.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) will temporarily open Tokua Airport in East New Britain Province to Airbus A220 aircraft operations and facilitate night flights at selected airports to ease congestion and support passenger movement during the peak festive travel period. The measures are part of NAC’s strategy to boost air travel capacity during the busy season, with Tokua Airport now cleared to handle A220 jets on a concession basis starting December 16, 2025, to help airlines manage higher passenger demand. In addition to Tokua, NAC has agreed to facilitate temporary night flight operations at Nadzab, Wewak, Momote and Kavieng airports, subject to advance coordination with airline operators. While night operations lie outside standard operating hours and require extra staffing and resources, NAC said the steps are necessary to reduce travel delays and improve passenger movement. NAC acknowledged the inconvenience experienced by travellers and thanked airlines, airport partners, and the public for their patience and cooperation during the peak period, offering apologies to those affected. NAC Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dominic Kaumu, ML OBE, said the temporary adjustments aim to support both carriers and passengers during the holiday rush while maintaining safety and service standards. The expanded capacity at Tokua and additional flight windows are expected to ease pressure on conventional daytime slots. The temporary night flight arrangements mark a rare extension of NAC’s operational hours, reflecting the high demand for domestic air travel during the festive season. Carriers interested in utilising night slots must provide advance notice to ensure proper staff scheduling and compliance with safety procedures. The Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport, which serves Lae and the Morobe region, has been increasingly important to PNG’s aviation landscape since its inauguration in 2023, when it was redeveloped with international-standard facilities capable of handling expanded services. Beyond peak-season measures, NAC continues to modernise its network of 22 national airports, aiming to deliver safe, efficient and integrated civil aviation services that support socioeconomic development across Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) marks half a century of independence this year, a journey defined by cultural resilience, political milestones, and the transformation of its resource-driven economy.  From shedding colonial rule in 1975 to emerging as a strategic player in regional diplomacy and climate advocacy, PNG’s story is a tapestry of triumphs and challenges that continue to shape its future. Let’s look at these national milestones set in the last five decades:  From Independence to Global Stage  On 15 September 1975, PNG adopted a home-grown Constitution that enshrined democratic governance, human rights, and cultural preservation.   A day later, on 16 September, the nation won full sovereignty from Australia under the leadership of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, its first Prime Minister and a unifying figure among more than 800 language groups.  In 1977, PNG held its inaugural national elections, empowering citizens to shape their own Parliament despite the logistical hurdles of rugged terrain and dispersed communities.   Mere weeks after independence, on 10 October 1975, PNG joined the United Nations (UN), launching its diplomatic presence and amplifying Pacific voices on development, peace, and environmental protection.  Resource Revolution: Mining, Oil & Gas  The late 1970s and 1980s heralded PNG’s first resource boom. The Bougainville mine, operational since 1972, became the country’s leading copper and gold producer, though landowner disputes and civil unrest led to its 1989 closure. In 1984, the Ok Tedi mine opened in Western Province, diversifying PNG’s mineral portfolio.  The 1990s saw a pivot to petroleum with the Kutubu and Gobe oil fields, while the turn of the century brought financial sector reforms: the privatization of Papua New Guinea Banking Corporation and the rise of Bank South Pacific bolstered economic stability.   The 2004 Napa Napa oil refinery near Port Moresby marked PNG’s entry into downstream processing, and initial moves to privatize PNG Power Limited aimed to modernize the national grid.  The PNG LNG Project in 2014 was a watershed moment—ExxonMobil’s multi-billion-dollar investment turned the nation into a major gas exporter.   More recently, the Porgera gold mine reopened in 2023 with majority local ownership, and the Wafi-Golpu copper-gold venture promises another long-term revenue stream.  Governance, Peace, and Social Progress  The late 1980s brought turbulence: the Bougainville Crisis erupted over demands for autonomy and fair resource sharing. Its resolution—the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 2001—granted greater self-rule and set the stage for a future referendum, showcasing PNG’s capacity for peaceful reconciliation.  In the 2000s and 2010s, PNG strengthened its institutions. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) was established to tackle graft, while Prime Minister James Marape’s decentralization efforts increased resource allocation to districts and provinces.  Parallel investments in human development soared. Free education policies rolled out in the 2010s improved literacy rates, while expanded healthcare programs bolstered maternal and rural health. These initiatives underscored PNG’s commitment to lifting every citizen.  Climate Leadership and Cultural Renaissance  Facing the frontlines of climate change, PNG has championed regional sustainability. In the 2020s, it emerged as a vocal advocate for biodiversity and green development.   A historic visit by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2025 will celebrate PNG’s environmental stewardship and highlight links between conservation and community well-being.  Simultaneously, tourism and cultural identity have taken center stage. Under the Golden Jubilee theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Tourism – Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the Bird of Paradise and Southern Cross adorn the anniversary logo.   Investments in eco-tourism and cultural festivals not only fuel local economies but also honor PNG’s ancestral heritage.   Business Evolution: Diversification Beyond Extractives  While mining and energy have historically driven PNG’s growth, recent decades have spurred diversification:  - Special Economic Zones (SEZ) policy to attract manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, and tech investments    - The Bank of Papua New Guinea’s Green Finance Centre, funding renewable energy and sustainable agriculture projects    - Regional expansion of conglomerates like Steamships Trading Company and Remington Group into Lae and Mount Hagen    These moves aim to reduce reliance on extractives, create jobs, and foster resilience against commodity price swings.  Regional Diplomacy and Golden Jubilee Celebrations  Earlier this year, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit underscored PNG’s pivotal role in Pacific unity. Strategic partnerships with Australia, China, Japan, and India have deepened through trade agreements, infrastructure projects, and development programs.  The Golden Jubilee itself—branded “Stronger Together, Growing the Future”—features cultural festivals, youth-led innovation challenges, a national prayer day, and global investment forums. Inspired by the biblical Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10), events emphasize renewal, justice, and collective prosperity.  Charting the Next Fifty Years  As PNG commemorates 50 years of independence, its journey offers both inspiration and a roadmap. Democratic institutions have matured, peace has healed old wounds, and economic progress has lifted communities—yet challenges remain. Environmental sustainability, equitable resource sharing, and diversified growth will define PNG’s path forward.  Papua New Guinea at fifty stands as a testament to unity in diversity, a nation forging its destiny with cultural pride and entrepreneurial spirit. The coming decades beckon with promise: a resilient PNG, stronger together, ready to grow its future.  We in PNG Business News congratulate the nation on this landmark anniversary. We are thankful to be a small part of chronicling the country’s strides since 2019, and we join all Papua New Guineans in declaring liberty throughout the land and moving forward with hope. We pray for wisdom, unity, and courage for all as we enter the next 50 years.   Mekim yumi stap wantaim. Mekim yumi go het wantaim -- Let's be together. Let's move forward together. 

Pacific Towing (PacTow) has successfully refloated the grounded Coral Expeditions cruise vessel Coral Adventurer (IMO 9838644). The refloating operation was completed on the afternoon of December 30, 2025, near Dregerhafen, approximately 65 miles north-east of Lae, Papua New Guinea. Following the vessel’s grounding, Pacific Towing was engaged to lead the salvage and recovery operation. The successful outcome was achieved through prompt and professional coordination between the crew onboard Coral Adventurer and shore-based support teams from Coral Expeditions, the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA), and Pacific Towing. Pacific Towing’s diving and salvage specialists coordinated the refloating operation, with support from the PacTow tug Langila (IMO 9018933). “We are very pleased with the result of this operation,” said Gerard Kasnari, General Manager of Pacific Towing. “Our rapid response and the strong teamwork demonstrated by all parties ensured a safe and efficient refloat, while maintaining safety, the integrity of the vessel and protection of the marine environment as our top priorities," he added. Pacific Towing is Papua New Guinea’s and Melanesia’s market leader in marine services and salvage, with operations extending across the broader region. The company has been operating for nearly 50 years and is a full member of the International Salvage Union (ISU) and the International Spill Control Organisation (ISCO). Pacific Towing provides marine services to both upstream and downstream oil and gas clients, as well as a wide range of other industry sectors. The company owns and operates a fleet of 21 vessels and maintains its own Australian-trained and certified commercial dive team. Employing more than 200 people, of whom 97 per cent are national employees, Pacific Towing is committed to workforce development and diversity. The company partners with the Australian Government on female cadetship training programmes. With operations across Papua New Guinea’s major ports and in the Solomon Islands, Pacific Towing is headquartered in Port Moresby at its dedicated tug base and HACCP-certified camp. The company is ISO certified to international standards ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.

The Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council (APNGBC) has announced that its 41st Australia Papua New Guinea Business Forum (#41APNGBF) will be held in Brisbane in 2026, coinciding with the city’s highly anticipated Magic Round weekend. Under the theme Game On for Growth, the forum will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and long-standing partners from both Australia and Papua New Guinea. The timing is designed to leverage the energy and networking opportunities generated by one of Australia’s largest sporting events, while providing a flagship platform for discussions on trade, investment, and bilateral partnerships. Magic Round, an annual National Rugby League (NRL) showcase, draws tens of thousands of fans from across Australia and the Pacific. By aligning the Forum with this event, APNGBC aims to combine commercial engagement with a unique cultural and networking experience, creating opportunities for informal dialogue alongside formal sessions. The council has urged members and prospective delegates to plan ahead, noting that hotel availability in Brisbane is already tightening due to the influx of visitors for Magic Round. Formal registrations and the detailed programme will be released in due course, but early accommodation booking is strongly recommended to ensure full participation. The 41st Forum will build on a year of APNGBC initiatives aimed at strengthening Australia-Papua New Guinea business links. This includes sectoral briefings, policy roundtables, trade missions, and engagement across key industries such as resources, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and tourism. The Forum will offer attendees the chance to reconnect in person, review recent developments, and explore the next phase of commercial and institutional cooperation between the two countries. APNGBC has emphasised that the Forum is not only a platform for policy and business discussion but also an opportunity to celebrate the enduring Australia-PNG relationship, foster partnerships, and identify practical opportunities for collaboration in trade and investment. Further updates on the forum’s programme and registration process will be shared by APNGBC in the coming months.