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The Securities Commission of Papua New Guinea (SCPNG) will embark on major capital market reforms this year in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea National Stock Exchange (PNGX) and other stakeholders.
The announcement was made by the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, during the official launch of the Licensing Module of the Centurion Enterprise System for SCPNG in Port Moresby.
“The launch today marks a significant milestone in the digital transformation of PNG’s capital market regulatory framework. This is a major advancement in SCPNG’s digital transformation agenda, providing an efficient, secure and automated platform for licensing and onboarding of capital market participants,” said Minister Maru.
The Licensing Module is expected to streamline licensing processes, enhance the integrity, security and reliability of regulatory records, improve turnaround times and operational efficiency, strengthen investor confidence and market transparency and align PNG’s capital market regulation with international best practice.
Under the new system, licence applicants will be required to be registered with the Financial Analysis and Supervision Unit (FASU), reinforcing regulatory coordination and establishing direct linkages among peer regulators within PNG’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) framework.
“This system reflects the Government’s commitment to modernising public institutions and creating a regulatory environment that is efficient, investor-friendly and internationally credible. The Licensing Module positions the Securities Commission as a modern, digitally enabled regulator, reinforcing trust, accountability and operational excellence across the capital market. The system will strengthen market entry compliance, including enhanced fit and proper assessments of licence applicants. It also strengthens PNG’s ability to safeguard financial integrity, uphold international standards and protect investors,” said Minister Maru.
“A well-regulated capital market is essential for attracting investment, promoting economic diversification and supporting PNG’s long-term development aspirations under Vision 2050 and the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (2023–2027),” he added.
Beyond the enterprise system rollout, SCPNG, in partnership with PNGX and other stakeholders, will pursue broader reforms, including streamlining regulation, introducing tax incentives for listed companies and investors, enhancing the trading platform, expanding investor education and introducing new financial instruments such as green bonds.
Minister Maru said PNG’s capital market remains a frontier market facing significant structural challenges.
“The PNG capital market, primarily represented by the PNGX, remains a frontier market characterized by high concentration and limited liquidity. The market continues to face the structural challenges like limited market dept and liquidity, outdate tax regime and regulatory hurdles that hinder investments and discourage listings at the exchange. The number of listed entities has remained relatively static over the last few years. As of January 2026, there are only 12 listed companies on the PNGX- 8 Local Domestic Entities and 4 Foreign (Dual-Listed) Entities. The market is heavily "top-heavy," meaning a few massive companies (like Santos and BSP) account for the vast majority of its value. The Total Market Capitalization is approximately K135 billion to K140 billion. The liquidity remains extremely low and in terms of volume, it is common for only 4 to 5 securities to see any trading activity in a given week with a turnover ratio of often less than 1percent of total market cap annually. Most shares are held by large institutional investors Nambawan Super who "buy and hold," leaving very little "free float" for daily trading.”
He said the capital market nevertheless holds significant potential to drive economic growth and development, outlining a suite of reforms aimed at transforming PNGX from a dormant exchange into a catalyst for growth.
Supply-Side Policies (Increasing Listings)
Partial privatisation of state-owned enterprises through the listing of minority stakes to provide blue-chip domestic investment options.
Listing incentives, including tax breaks or reduced corporate tax rates, to offset compliance and transparency costs.
Establishment of an SME or “junior” board with lower entry requirements for growing local businesses.
Demand-Side and Liquidity Policies
Relaxation of foreign exchange restrictions to encourage foreign investor participation.
Incentives for retail participation, including micro-investing platforms and mobile applications.
Development of a secondary market, including a corporate debt and bond market, alongside equities.
Structural and Technical Reforms
Automated trading and settlement, transitioning to a fully digital, T+2 settlement system.
Mandatory local listing requirements for major foreign resource projects to ensure national participation in the financial sector.
Additional measures under consideration include taxation reforms or government intervention to reduce or exempt taxes for initial public offerings, private capital raisings and listings, compulsory listing requirements for companies doing business in PNG and enhanced regulatory powers to improve product clarity and oversight.
“By reforming our capital market and tax regime, we can attract investment, boost local businesses and drive PNG’s economic growth. We will establish a robust SCPNG Board to drive these reforms forward. This new Board will focus on policy development of the capital market to enable better transparency, accountability and effectiveness in the overall function of the Securities Commission. This will be a pivotal step towards strengthening our financial sector,” said Minister Maru.
He also announced that the inaugural Capital Market Summit will be held in May, featuring global experts who will share insights on reforming and expanding PNG’s capital market.
“In Fiji, the corporate tax rate for companies listed on the South Pacific Stock Exchange (SPX) is generally lower than the standard corporate rate to encourage public listing and investment. As of the current 2025–2026 fiscal cycle, the rate for listed companies was 15 percent and 25 per cent for the standard companies (unlisted). Beyond the lower income tax rate, companies listed on the SPX enjoy several other tax benefits including Tax-Free Dividends, Capital Gains Exemption, Listing Expense Deductions and Trading Gains. We want to embark on such reform to attract more companies to list on the PNGX,” said Minister Maru.
K92 Mining Inc. has projected a substantial increase in production and investment at its high‑grade Kainantu Gold Mine in Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea, under its 2026 operational guidance released on 26 January 2026.
Building on record performance in 2025 — when the company reported annual production of 174,134 ounces gold equivalent (AuEq) and completed commissioning of its Stage 3 Expansion process plant — K92 expects further operational growth this year, driven by increased mining and processing from new mining fronts and supporting infrastructure projects.
John Lewins, K92 Chief Executive Officer and Director, stated, that growth is supported by the ramp-up in mining and processing of new mining fronts, together with the benefits of projects completed in 2025 and the planned completion of several key surface and underground enabler projects, largely in the first half of 2026, including a significant expansion of the load and haul fleet, positioning the Company for its strongest performance in the second half of the year.
Production outlook and costs
K92 forecasts 2026 gold equivalent production of 190,000 to 225,000 oz AuEq, a significant rise from the 2025 result. Forecast by‑product cash costs are expected to range between US$710 and US$770 per ounce of gold, with all‑in sustaining costs (AISC) of US$1,250 to US$1,350 per ounce gold on a by‑product basis. On a co‑product basis, cash costs are projected at US$980 to US$1,040 per ounce AuEq and AISC at US$1,480 to US$1,580 per ounce AuEq.
Infrastructure and expansions
Several key surface and underground “enabler” projects are scheduled for completion mainly in the first half of 2026. These include upgrades to ventilation systems, expanded load and haul fleet capacity, river crossing works to support larger truck payloads, and commissioning of a pastefill plant — all aimed at improving productivity and throughput. A Stage 4 Expansion Power Station upgrade to 15.3 MW is also planned, which aligns with the company’s longer‑term strategy to reduce greenhouse gas intensity through increased use of hydro‑electric supply.
The operational programme is supported by strong financial positioning, with record net cash at year‑end 2025 and most capital committed to the Stage 3 Expansion on budget. This financial strength has allowed K92 to accelerate elements of its Stage 4 Expansion plan for 2026.
Exploration focus
Exploration remains a priority, with an expanded programme planned that allocates US$31–35 million to both near‑mine and regional targets. Surface drilling plans include areas such as Arakompa, Maniape and Judd North, while underground drilling will target zones including Kora, Kora South and Judd Deeps. Two additional surface drill rigs are expected on site in the first quarter to support the expanded programme.
“Exploration also remains a key priority, with a record program planned to target new discoveries and expand resources across multiple near-mine and regional targets, supported by two additional drill rigs arriving in the first quarter, increasing the number of rigs to 14,” Lewins said.
“Importantly, we enter 2026 in a strong financial position, with record net cash, and the Stage 3 Expansion 95% spent or committed, and on budget. This strength has enabled us to leverage our proven Project Owner’s Team and mobilized on-site contractors to bring forward Stage 4 Expansion projects in 2026, while concurrently advancing our 2030 climate change reduction targets through the planned hydro-electric grid power supply and line upgrade,” he added.
Local context and broader impact
K92’s guidance comes after a strong operational year in 2025, when the company achieved record processing throughput and multiple operational milestones at the Kainantu mine. The successful commissioning of the Stage 3 process plant has been crucial in supporting increased production and positioning operations for further expansion and value creation in PNG.
The Kainantu Gold Mine, operated by K92, continues to play a significant role in Papua New Guinea’s mining sector, contributing to employment, infrastructure development and ongoing exploration in one of the country’s most prolific gold‑copper districts.
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 Sepik Development Project (SDP)’s approach to engagement with Sepik communities has been validated by the OECD’s Australian National Contact Point (AusNCP), following an exhaustive examination of the Project’s activities.
A Follow-Up Statement issued by the AusNCP, reporting on the SDP’s compliance with recommendations issued in 2023, confirmed that the Independent Examiner is satisfied the project has delivered on the recommendations.
The recommendations related to compliance with OECD guidelines for obtaining the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of communities and other stakeholders, following a complaint lodged by Project Sepik and the Jubilee Australia Research Centre.
Phil McCormack of the Sepik Development Project welcomed the findings, saying the outcome highlighted the Project’s ongoing commitment to building strong relationships and securing FPIC from Sepik communities.
“We are pleased the AusNCP has confirmed our compliance with OECD guidelines in relation to stakeholder engagement on this project,” he said.
“This outcome represents independent recognition of our commitment to transparency and collaboration with Sepik communities.
“We look forward to continuing our proactive and transparent engagement to ensure local communities not only fully consent to the project, but can also be active participants in the way the project develops, and in the generation of future benefits for Sepik communities and Papua New Guinea.”
Mr McCormack also thanked the AusNCP for its thorough consideration of the issue.
“We appreciate its rigorous review process and constructive approach to addressing complex issues,” he said.
Last month, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) granted six environmental permits for the Project, following a comprehensive assessment process.
The permits cover the Frieda River Copper-Gold Project, Sepik Power Grid Project, Frieda River Hydroelectric Project, Sepik Infrastructure Project Road, Green River Airport, and Vanimo Ocean Port.
The Sepik Development Project represents one of the most significant investments in Papua New Guinea. It is expected to unlock long-term economic value, deliver sustainable infrastructure, and empower local communities through genuine partnerships with landowners.
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.
Air Niugini’s new Airbus A220-300 aircraft are reshaping domestic air travel across Papua New Guinea, delivering improved reliability, comfort and capacity since entering service late last year.
The national carrier introduced its first A220-300 in September, followed by two additional aircraft in December. The three next-generation jets have quickly become popular with passengers and are playing a key role in strengthening connectivity across the country.
As holidaymakers, workers and students return to their homes and places of work and study at the start of the year, the A220 fleet has helped reunite families and communities, transporting passengers safely and comfortably across the domestic network. Air Niugini has branded the aircraft The People’s Balus, reflecting its role in linking communities nationwide.
Configured with 138 seats, the A220-300 provides increased capacity compared with the Fokker aircraft it complements and is progressively replacing. Passengers benefit from a wider cabin, larger windows, increased overhead luggage space and more comfortable seating, including Business Class, delivering a noticeably enhanced travel experience.
The A220s are currently operating on key domestic routes serving Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Kavieng, Manus Island and Alotau. These services connect major population centres and regional hubs, supporting economic activity, access to education and health services, and vital social ties.
In addition to passenger comfort, the aircraft offers significant operational advantages. Its advanced technology and fuel efficiency support improved schedule reliability and performance, particularly on longer domestic sectors. The aircraft’s quieter operation and modern systems also align with Air Niugini’s investment in a safer, greener and more sustainable fleet.
As runway upgrade works progress at airports around the country, Air Niugini plans to deploy the A220 on additional domestic routes, including Mount Hagen, Wewak and Kimbe, further expanding access and connectivity.
The A220-300 is also set to operate selected regional services, including routes to Australia, once regulatory requirements are completed. The aircraft will initially service Cairns before debuting on the Port Moresby–Sydney route on March 29.
Services to Sydney currently operate twice a week. With the introduction of the A220, frequencies will increase to three flights a week from March 29. Departures from Port Moresby will operate on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, with return services the following mornings on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays.
The introduction of the A220 fleet marks a significant milestone for Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea, ushering in a new era of improved comfort, capacity and reliability for travellers both domestically and across the region.
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.
Nambawan Super Limited has supported teachers during the Teaching Service Commission’s Resumption of Duty Programme, joining about 3,000 educators at Lae Secondary School in Morobe province.
The event marked Nambawan Super’s first member engagement activity for 2026 and reflected the fund’s commitment to delivering superannuation education and services directly to members, particularly teachers, ahead of the new school year.
The fund said teachers often face challenges in managing superannuation matters due to heavy workloads and postings in rural and remote communities, limiting their access to financial services.
During the programme, Nambawan Super’s Chief Member Services Officer, George Panao, encouraged teachers to take an active role in managing their superannuation by updating beneficiary details and personal information.
He highlighted the range of digital services available to members, including the Online Member Portal, mobile app, SMS balance check service and the free call centre service on 180 1599, as well as email support via CallCentre@nambawansuper.com.pg.
These services are designed to improve access and support, enabling members to make informed decisions toward a secure and comfortable retirement.
Following the resumption programme, Nambawan Super set up a general member enquiry booth to assist teachers with updating their details and addressing superannuation-related queries before they returned to their schools and respective postings.
Although unable to attend the event, Nambawan Super Chief Executive Officer Lachlan Baird acknowledged the critical role teachers play nationwide.
“Teachers play a central role in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future human resources and often have limited time to focus on their own financial and retirement planning,” Baird said.
“Through our partnership with the Teaching Service Commission, Nambawan Super can engage directly with teachers at key events, ensuring they are informed and supported.”
Baird also congratulated Maini Ugaia on his recent appointment as acting chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, acknowledging his contribution through the Nambawan Super Membership Committee in representing teachers and members nationwide.
Building on the success of its 2025 member engagement activities, Nambawan Super said it will continue rolling out member engagement and education initiatives through its Financial Literacy Programme in 2026.
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.
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