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Preparations are underway for the launch of the From Here to There: The Cost of Government Administration and Services in Bougainville report, following high-level discussions with the National Economic and Fiscal Commission (NEFC) and Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) officials earlier this month. The study represents the most comprehensive cost of service assessment undertaken for Bougainville and is expected to inform ongoing fiscal planning, service delivery discussions, and the progressive transfer of functions and powers. The engagement brought together officials from the ABG Department of Treasury and Finance, the Department of the President, the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC) – Strategic Planning and Policy Division – and the NEFC Policy Team. Discussions reviewed the report’s findings and outlined implementation priorities ahead of its official release. Evidence-Based Fiscal Planning ABG Deputy Secretary for Strategic Planning and Policy, Steven Kolova, said the report provides a critical foundation for forward planning. “Understanding the true cost of government services is fundamental to informed planning. This report will support our budgeting processes, strengthen engagement with the National Government, and guide discussions with development partners as Bougainville advances its future priorities,” Kolova said. The Cost of Service survey originated from a Joint Supervisory Meeting held in Arawa in 2021, where leaders highlighted the importance of progressing towards a consolidated “one-line budget” arrangement for Bougainville. The NEFC was subsequently mandated to undertake a detailed costing study to support fiscal transparency and the progressive transfer of functions and powers. Comprehensive Multi-Year Assessment The multi-year exercise included budget analysis, field visits across Bougainville, consultations with national agencies, geographic information system (GIS) mapping, surveys, and the development of a tailored costing model reflecting Bougainville’s unique context. Finalised in November 2024, the study adopts a whole-of-government approach to analysing the cost of administering Bougainville. It assesses service delivery across key sectors, including governance and central administration, law and justice, infrastructure, economic development, and social sectors such as health and education. The report notes that the true cost of administering Bougainville extends beyond the ABG’s annual budget, with many service delivery costs remaining embedded within national agency allocations. As Bougainville assumes greater responsibilities, these costs will require clearer identification and structured transfer arrangements. International comparisons with other small island states in the Pacific provide useful benchmarks for governance costs in similar geographic and demographic settings. Supporting Fiscal Transparency NEFC Policy Director Eric Kumasan said the study provides a clearer understanding of Bougainville’s fiscal landscape. “This study provides an important evidence base to support ongoing discussions on service delivery and fiscal planning. It gives Bougainville a clearer picture of where it stands financially and what is required moving forward,” Kumasan said. The report recommends continued functional analysis, sector-specific costing exercises, and peer learning with comparable Pacific jurisdictions to support Bougainville’s long-term planning. Participants also acknowledged the legacy of the late Patrick Kennedy Painap, former Chairman and CEO of the NEFC, who championed the From Here to There study from its inception. ABG Secretary for Finance and Treasury, Joshua Tauko, conveyed the government’s appreciation. “The Autonomous Bougainville Government acknowledges with great respect the core role played by the late Patrick Kennedy Painap in progressing this important body of work. His commitment to evidence-based fiscal planning and his dedication to Bougainville will not be forgotten,” Tauko said. The From Here to There report arrives at a crucial time as Bougainville continues its institutional development and preparations for future governance arrangements. The collaboration between the ABG and NEFC reflects a shared commitment to evidence-based planning, partnership, and responsible fiscal management.

Pacific Lime and Cement Limited has entered into a long-term quicklime offtake agreement with Newmont Corporation, the world’s leading gold producer, to supply its Papua New Guinea operations from PLC’s Central Lime Project in Central Province. Under the agreement, Newmont becomes a cornerstone customer, with contracted volumes representing around one-third of the Central Lime Project’s nameplate production capacity. The arrangement materially underpins the commercial development of PNG’s first domestic quicklime manufacturing operation. This offtake marks the first large-scale commitment to locally produced quicklime in the country, highlighting both Newmont’s support for PNG’s buy-local framework and the growing demand for reliable, domestically sourced industrial inputs that meet Tier‑1 global mining standards. Strategic and ESG Significance The Central Lime Project is designed to replace imported quicklime currently supplied from offshore. For Newmont, the offtake enhances supply-chain resilience, reduces exposure to international logistics disruptions, and aligns with environmental and social objectives through lower transport emissions and increased local value creation. For Papua New Guinea, the agreement supports employment, skills development, and the establishment of a nationally significant industrial capability, in line with broader economic development and ESG goals. Commercial Framework The offtake agreement is structured as a multi-year arrangement, commencing following completion and commissioning of the Central Lime Project, subject to customary conditions. Supply will be delivered under standard commercial delivery terms from PLC’s integrated project precinct, part of a designated Special Economic Zone intended to support domestic manufacturing and downstream processing. Details of pricing, escalation mechanisms, and volume scheduling remain confidential, in line with market-based arrangements for long-term industrial supply agreements. Project Readiness and Outlook Securing Newmont as a cornerstone customer materially de-risks the Central Lime Project and bolsters PLC’s ongoing discussions with other domestic and regional customers. The agreement demonstrates that PNG-based industrial processing projects can satisfy the technical, operational, and ESG requirements of Tier‑1 global mining companies when developed under disciplined commercial frameworks. PLC continues to collaborate closely with Newmont on operational readiness, quality assurance, and logistics planning, with first supply targeted following achievement of construction and commissioning milestones. PLC Managing Director Paul Mulder said securing Newmont as a cornerstone customer is a significant milestone for PLC and for PNG’s industrial development. "This agreement validates more than a decade of work to establish domestic quicklime production capable of meeting Tier‑1 mining standards, while delivering strong economic, social and environmental outcomes for Papua New Guinea," Mulder said. “With a foundation offtake in place, PLC is well positioned as the Central Lime Project advances and shall progress further customer discussions as we move toward first production," the executive added. Newmont Lihir General Manager Dawid Pretorius added that the agreement reflects Newmont’s commitment to creating long-term social and economic value in Papua New Guinea. "It required significant time and effort to achieve an outcome that delivers shared value for Newmont, our partners and the nation. It demonstrates our commitment to supporting domestic industry and the broader social and economic benefits that flow from building local capability," Pretorius said. Pacific Lime and Cement Limited is advancing the development of Papua New Guinea’s lime and cement industry to supply essential building materials for the nation and the wider Asia–Pacific region. Anchored by its flagship Central Lime and Cement Projects, PLC is creating a fully integrated platform for local manufacturing, import substitution, and sustainable growth. The company’s diversified portfolio also extends to industrial sands, nature-based forestry carbon credits, and renewable energy, supporting its commitment to delivering cleaner, long-term solutions that build enduring value for PNG and its communities. PLC also holds an approximately 16.6% interest in copper-gold explorer/developer Adyton Resources Corporation. PLC’s strategy is to support Papua New Guinea and the broader Asia-Pacific region on their decarbonisation journey by developing projects that deliver higher-quality, lower-cost, and targeted “low-carbon” inputs for the mining, resources, and construction sectors. Where applicable, these projects are supported with a diversified renewable energy portfolio encompassing solar, wind, geothermal, nature-based forestry carbon credits, and battery storage initiatives. The company is committed to engaging with host communities throughout the lifecycle of its projects, as well as incorporating internationally recognised Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards into its strategy and business practices.

Petroleum projects in Papua New Guinea have recorded encouraging progress, with Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina welcoming significant advances on the APF Tie-In Project, citing major regulatory approvals and community agreements as critical milestones toward full project sanction. Speaking from Singapore on behalf of the national government, Maladina confirmed that project operator Santos, together with its PNG LNG joint venture partners, has secured essential regulatory approvals from the National Petroleum Authority and the Conservation and Environmental Protection Authority. The approvals represent a key step toward a final investment decision and project sanction for the APF Tie-In development. A further milestone was achieved on Feb. 5, 2026, when senior officials from the National Petroleum Authority, led by Petroleum Division Director Jimmy Haumu, visited the project area to witness the signing of the In-Principle Clan Agreement. The delegation attended on behalf of the Ministry of Petroleum and NPA Managing Director David Manau. The agreement was signed between Santos and key landowning clans directly affected by the project, following an extensive period of consultation and engagement. It reflects landowner understanding and acceptance of the development and underscores the importance of structured community participation in major resource projects. The In-Principle Clan Agreement aligns with arrangements already embedded within the broader PNG LNG project framework. It sets out clear processes for land access, community development initiatives, local business participation opportunities and ongoing stakeholder engagement. The agreement also addresses the management of above-ground risks, including law and order considerations, which remain a critical factor in ensuring project sustainability and maintaining investor confidence in the sector. “The national government, through the NPA and my ministry, is very pleased with the progress achieved so far, and I express my sincere appreciation to Santos and its joint venture partners, the key community leaders of Kutubu, the NPA and all stakeholders who have contributed to meeting these important project development objectives,” Maladina said. “These milestones demonstrate the government’s commitment to encouraging further investment in the country and, importantly, Santos’ commitment to working collaboratively with local communities and regulatory authorities in a meaningful way to achieve project objectives,” he added. Industry analysts say securing regulatory approvals alongside landowner agreements significantly reduces project risk and strengthens the investment case for the APF Tie-In Project. The progress signals continued momentum in PNG’s gas sector amid increasingly competitive global energy markets. With regulatory clearances and community agreements now in place, the project is moving closer to full sanction, reinforcing Papua New Guinea’s position as a key LNG producer in the Asia-Pacific region and highlighting the government’s focus on attracting responsible, long-term investment in the petroleum industry.

The Sepik Development Project (SDP) is a nation-building initiative in Papua New Guinea, delivering transformative infrastructure, renewable power, and essential services to remote communities while responsibly developing one of the world’s largest gold and copper deposits. “Utilising world-leading engineering and renewable-powered design, the project is committed to protecting the Sepik River ecosystem and ensuring the safety of its communities,” said a Frieda River Limited spokesperson. Designed as one of the lowest-emission mining projects globally, the SDP supports Papua New Guinea’s commitment to energy transition and sustainable resource development. The mine will be powered by a hydroelectric dam, producing a surplus of 270 MW of electricity. This power will connect to the national grid, supplying industries and communities in the northern border frontier with clean, reliable energy, while contributing to the reduction of PNG’s long-term carbon emissions. The dam design, which continues to be strengthened and refined, incorporates world-class tailings and waste management technology to effectively mitigate risks to the Sepik River and surrounding ecosystem. It has been engineered to withstand high rainfall and seismic activity, with an embankment and spillway designed to safely accommodate extreme water flows and potential earthquake events. Water quality will be managed through advanced waste and water-management techniques, including underwater tailings storage and active treatment of open-pit water. The project’s design is informed by one of PNG’s most extensive environmental data programmes, supported by a decade of baseline studies and biodiversity surveys. Scientific modelling indicates that impacts on downstream water quality and marine life are expected to be minimal, with significant safeguards in place to protect surrounding and downstream communities. The facility is designed to store water and permanently contain process tailings and mine waste rock. Ongoing water quality monitoring will be conducted at two checkpoints during wastewater discharge activities to ensure the Sepik River and surrounding environment remain protected. “The safety of the Sepik and its communities is a key priority for the project, guided by four principles: technically appropriate, environmentally safe, socially responsible, and financially profitable,” the spokesperson added. “The Sepik Development Project is committed to genuine, inclusive engagement with communities, ensuring local voices shape how the project is planned and delivered. We believe this nation-building initiative should deliver substantial economic and social benefits to Sepik communities and PNG more broadly. We are actively listening to and working with our stakeholders to ensure this outcome.” The spokesperson also noted, “We will continue to engage fully and openly with stakeholders through our annual community engagement programmes within the project’s infrastructure and riverine footprint corridor. We welcome questions, feedback, and guidance from communities as we work to deliver a project that brings tangible benefits to landowners, local communities, and PNG as a whole.” Frieda River Limited is a significant subsidiary of the PanAust Limited Group. In addition to its pre-development opportunities in Papua New Guinea, PanAust Limited owns Phu Bia Mining — an award-winning dual operation in Laos — and has development projects in Chile. An Australian-incorporated company, PanAust is owned by Guangdong Rising H.K. (Holding) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Guangdong Rising Holding Group Co., Ltd. (GDRH), a Chinese state-owned company regulated under the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the People’s Government of Guangdong Province.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), through the Bougainville Agriculture Commodities Regulatory Authority (BACRA), has issued cocoa export licenses to six companies as it strengthens regulatory control over the sector and reports record production in 2025. The first three licenses were issued in October 2025 to Sankamap, Elliven and Bougainville Organic Export Company. On Friday, three additional licenses were granted to Coconut Products Ltd., AGMARK and PNG Pacific Capital Ltd., marking what officials described as Bougainville’s growing control over its cocoa industry. The issuance of licenses follows the passage of the Bougainville Agriculture Commodities Regulatory Act 2020 and the formal establishment of BACRA to regulate the agriculture and commodities sector in Bougainville. Under the regulations, the BACRA Advisory Council facilitates the screening and approval of license applications. Previously, cocoa export licenses were issued by the PNG Cocoa Board. Those functions have since been transferred to the ABG Department of Primary Industry and are now being operationalized by BACRA. ABG Minister for Primary Industry Clarence Dency said the transition represents a significant shift in the ownership and governance of one of Bougainville’s most important cash crops. “For the first time, Bougainville is fully in control of its cocoa export system. This means that 100 percent of cocoa export levies are now paid directly to the ABG through BACRA, ensuring that revenue generated from our cocoa industry stays in Bougainville and benefits our people,” Dency said. Secretary for the Department of Primary Industry Kenneth Dovaro said revenue collected through BACRA will be reinvested to strengthen the cocoa industry. “The funds generated will be used to build industry capacity through research and development, extension services, compliance monitoring and effective administration of the sector,” Dovaro said. He added that the establishment of BACRA will significantly improve data collection and planning. “For the first time, we are able to systematically collect accurate data on cocoa production across Bougainville. This will greatly improve future planning and policy decisions for the industry,” he said. Bougainville has maintained its position as the country’s leading cocoa producer in recent years, with production in 2025 reaching approximately 23,500 metric tons. “This is a historic high production level and very significant to the national and local economy, as this is valued at over K750 million from our estimates,” Dovaro said. “We estimate that about 80 percent, or K600 million, of the total revenue went directly to farmers,” he added. Under the new licensing arrangements, all cocoa exporters operating in Bougainville will be fully accountable to BACRA, including compliance with license conditions, monitoring requirements and quality standards. Officials said these requirements are expected to flow through the supply chain to farmers. The Department of Primary Industry will also conduct regionwide awareness programs targeting cocoa farmers to promote quality production, proper registration of fermentaries and compliance with industry standards. Dency said the measures are aimed at protecting and maintaining Bougainville’s reputation for high-quality cocoa while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.

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.

Holiday Inn & Suites Port Moresby and Holiday Inn Express Port Moresby are proud to announce the launch of their “Greener Stay” initiative, commencing 16 February 2026. The programme gives guests the option to reduce their environmental impact by opting out of daily housekeeping services while earning IHG One Rewards points. The initiative is designed to help conserve water and energy by reducing unnecessary room servicing, including linen changes, cleaning chemicals and daily resource use. Guests who choose to participate may opt out of housekeeping services during their stay and will be rewarded with 500 bonus points.* Guests can participate by simply placing the Greener Stay door hanger outside their room by 2am, signalling that they would like to skip housekeeping for that day. Portfolio General Manager Anne Busfield said the programme aligns strongly with the hotels’ sustainability commitments and evolving guest expectations. “Greener Stay is about giving our guests more choice — and making it easy to travel in a more responsible way,” Busfield said. “Many guests do not need a full clean every day, and this initiative allows them to opt out while knowing they are helping conserve water and energy here in Papua New Guinea.” Busfield added that the initiative also supports IHG’s loyalty proposition. “We are also proud that Greener Stay rewards our IHG One Rewards members with 500 points per night. It is a simple, practical way to thank guests for helping us reduce our environmental footprint — while still enjoying the comfort and service they expect from Holiday Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express," the manager said. Greener Stay will be available for eligible stays at both Holiday Inn properties in Port Moresby from 16 February 2026. Guests who are not yet IHG One Rewards members can sign up free of charge and begin earning points immediately. *Terms and conditions apply. Greener Stay is an IHG guest programme that allows guests to opt out of housekeeping services during their stay to reduce environmental impact. Participating IHG One Rewards members receive 500 bonus points per night. Rooms will still be serviced every fourth consecutive night in line with brand standards. Set within five hectares of landscaped gardens, the Holiday Inn® & Suites Port Moresby offers a secure environment combined with international service standards and Papua New Guinea hospitality. Located in the heart of the Government district, the hotel is accessible via a modern four-lane highway, six kilometres from the airport, with a continuation of the highway extending a further eight kilometres into the Port Area. Parliament, many government departments and embassies are situated nearby, as is the Port Moresby Golf Course. Accommodation comprises 238 rooms and suites, including serviced apartments. The hotel features one restaurant and one bar. Facilities include a gym with four squash courts, cardiovascular training equipment, a fully equipped weight room and daily aerobics classes; volleyball and basketball courts; two tennis courts; an outdoor swimming pool; and a walking track. The hotel also offers a full range of meeting facilities, including a ballroom seating up to 300 guests, which can be divided into three smaller rooms seating up to 100 guests each, as well as smaller breakout rooms and a secretariat or boardroom. For more information, visit: https://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/portmoresby/pomih/hoteldetail or call +675 303 2000. Find the hotel on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holidayinnandsuitesportmoresby

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. 

Air Niugini Limited (ANL) has announced the appointment of Alan Milne as Chief Executive Officer, following approval by the National Executive Council (NEC). The airline’s Board Chairman, Karl Yalo, described the appointment as timely, coming at a pivotal moment for the national carrier as it advances the Government-approved Re-Fleet Program and works to strengthen operational reliability and financial performance. “Air Niugini is entering a new era as we modernise our fleet, lift operational performance, and deliver the service standards Papua New Guineans expect from their national carrier,” Yalo said. “This transformation, backed by the Marape–Rosso Government and led by the stewardship of the State Enterprise Minister, William Duma, represents the largest capital investment in the country’s aviation history. It will set the platform for safer, more reliable services, stronger national connectivity, and long-term sustainability for our flag carrier.” Proven Aviation Leadership Milne is an aviation executive and engineer with over 44 years of experience across Papua New Guinea and Australia, with expertise in engineering, operations, and airline leadership. He previously served as Air Niugini’s CEO from 2018 to 2020, departing as the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped global aviation. “Before that, he held senior executive roles with the Qantas Group, overseeing Engineering, Operations Performance, the Integrated Operations Centre, and Maintenance Operations—experience that guided a major airline through complex operational and market conditions,” Yalo said. “Alan’s deep understanding of airline management in the Asia–Pacific region is exactly what Air Niugini needs at this time.” Milne also served as CEO of Skytrans Airlines in Australia from 2020 to 2025, supporting regional air connectivity. He holds two university degrees, is a licensed aircraft engineer, and a qualified pilot. Strategic Focus: Fleet Modernisation, Safety and Reliability The Board has set clear expectations for the new CEO, emphasising safety, operational performance, customer experience, workforce stability, and disciplined delivery of the Re-Fleet Program. “With the introduction of the Airbus A220 and the gradual retirement of older aircraft, Air Niugini is undertaking one of the most significant transformations in its history. This transition—from aircraft approaching four decades in service to a modern, efficient fleet—must be executed safely, responsibly, and with minimal disruption to the travelling public,” Yalo said. The programme includes phasing out the Fokker and Dash 8 Classic fleets and optimising the Q400 fleet, with a focus on safety, dispatch reliability, and schedule integrity. “Operational reliability matters to every passenger and every business that depends on Air Niugini. We are committed to on-time performance, reducing aircraft-on-ground events, strengthening maintenance and engineering resilience, and embedding a safety-led culture throughout the organisation,” Yalo added. Cargo: Essential for Connectivity and the Economy Yalo highlighted that modernisation extends beyond passenger travel to air cargo, which supports livelihoods and national development. “Air Niugini’s role goes beyond passenger transport. Air cargo is vital for our economy and the wellbeing of our people—from medical and community supplies to parts keeping mining and infrastructure operations running, and high-value exports such as seafood. Air freight must be properly planned, coordinated, and delivered reliably.” Collaboration and Accountability The airline will continue working closely with Government, operational partners, and key stakeholders, including the National Airports Corporation, Niusky, Airbus, and other international organisations, to ensure smooth fleet transition and enhanced performance. “Milne will be held to clear performance expectations aligned with Government, KCH, and ANL Board priorities. The Prime Minister has emphasised that Key Performance Indicators are the cornerstone measure for every CEO serving the State. Safety, reliability, service delivery, people leadership, and financial discipline will be central to evaluating his performance,” Yalo said. Preparing for the Next Phase Beyond immediate operational improvements, leadership under Milne will prepare Air Niugini for its next phase, including eventual partial privatisation. “In the short term, the focus will be on maintaining and enhancing operations and profitability. In the medium term, we will prepare Air Niugini for initial partial privatisation in a way that best serves our customers, staff, KCH, the Government, and the people of Papua New Guinea,” Yalo said. Looking Ahead Yalo also thanked Captain Samiu Taufa for his service over the past six months. “Captain Taufa led Air Niugini through a demanding period, including peak travel operations. He will continue as General Manager Flight Operations, working closely with Milne,” Yalo said. “Air Niugini is not just an airline—it is the flag carrier of our nation. Our responsibility is to take it to the next level: safe, reliable, customer-focused, and financially sustainable for the long term,” Yalo concluded.

Remington Technology has confirmed its Platinum Sponsorship of the 2026 AI Summit, hosted by International Training Institute (ITI), Papua New Guinea’s largest private training institution. The Summit will take place on 6 March 2026 at the Stanley Hotel, Port Moresby, and is expected to attract more than 300 participants from across government, education, business and the technology sector. Returning for its second year following a successful inaugural event in 2025, the AI Summit is hosted by ITI, an institution recognised by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and now in its 27th year of operation. The Summit aims to strengthen understanding of artificial intelligence and highlight its practical value within the Papua New Guinean context. ITI Chairman and Co-Founder Senthil Kumaran said the Summit was created to respond to growing interest in AI while addressing widespread misunderstanding around the topic. “AI is widely talked about, both positively and negatively, but many people don’t really understand what it is or how it can be useful,” Mr Kumaran said. “This event brings together experts, industry leaders and learners to openly discuss AI, share experiences, and help PNG adapt in a positive and practical way.” The 2026 program will focus on four key areas: AI in healthcare, ethics and governance, generative AI, and AI in higher education. The Summit will also feature practical demonstrations and an expo, where organisations will showcase AI-related products, services and real-world applications relevant to Papua New Guinea. Remington Group CEO Justin Kieseker said Remington Technology’s continued support of the Summit reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence across the technology sector. “We were involved in the Summit last year and saw the strong interest around this topic,” Mr Kieseker said. “AI is becoming increasingly important in the systems and technologies we work with, and over the next five years its impact will be even more significant.” Remington Technology has partnered with ITI for more than 12 years, supporting its production printing operations in Port Moresby and Lae. According to Mr Kieseker, backing the AI Summit aligns naturally with Remington Technology’s role as a technology leader in Papua New Guinea. “We want to support initiatives that build capability, encourage learning, and prepare the next generation of graduates,” he said. “The workforce of the future will look very different, and we want to play our part in supporting PNG’s people and positive national development through technology.” Remington Technology looks forward to contributing once again to the national conversation around how artificial intelligence is understood, applied and adopted in Papua New Guinea.