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Prime Minister James Marape has called on investors to support Papua New Guinea’s transformation from a resource-dependent economy to a manufacturing and green-energy powerhouse, outlining a 20-year vision during a live Q&A session with Australian journalist Tracey Spicer at PNG Investment Week.
Looking ahead to 2040 and 2050, Marape emphasised the need for ordinary Papua New Guineans to feel the benefits of investment through the growth of local businesses and the export of finished, high-value products.
“Incubate more local business and migrate to a manufacturing-based economy,” he said. “Local produce must translate to finished products for export.”
Marape told investors that the government is working to shift PNG from “resource potential to a predictable pipeline of financeable, climate-resilient projects” capable of attracting global capital at scale.
He also confirmed PNG’s ambition to define itself internationally as a clean, green energy economy, powered by the country’s hydro resources and supported by its forests and oceans.
“Australia is moving towards closing their fossil fuel facilities. We’re looking at supplying Australia with energy harvested from PNG,” Marape said. “Our negative carbon footprint is an advantage we offer investors.”
He highlighted the potential for carbon-offset markets to become a significant revenue source, urging companies with substantial emissions to partner with PNG in conservation efforts. “Conservation dollars could become a major new revenue stream,” he said, noting that such partnerships would help keep forests standing.
To create a safer environment for investors, Marape pledged full-scale reform and expansion of police and justice institutions, aiming to strengthen governance and ensure security across the nation.
Marape projected that Papua New Guinea could surpass K200 billion GDP by 2030 and K500 billion by 2045, stressing that prosperity must be broadly shared. He said the nation must become “a prosperous, healthy and wealthy country — a blessing to investors and citizens alike.”
As the session closed, Spicer congratulated the Prime Minister on PNG’s milestones. Marape’s final message was one of partnership and shared opportunity: “There will be enough on the table for everyone who chooses to live and operate in PNG.”
Papua New Guinea’s mining sector continues to underpin the national economy and is positioned for a new phase of growth, reform, and sustainable investment, Acting Managing Director of the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) Harry Kore said during the regulator’s forum, PNG’s Mining Sector Update, at Investment Week on Dec. 8 in Sydney, Australia.
Addressing an audience that included government representatives, regulators, PNG resource owners, extractive industry leaders, and investors, Kore outlined the central role mining continues to play in PNG’s economy.
He said PNG’s geological setting along the boundary of the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates has endowed the country with a world-class mineral base. He described mining as the backbone of the economy, highlighting that in 2024 alone the sector generated PGK17 billion in foreign export revenue, accounting for about 40 percent of PNG’s total exports.
Mining has contributed around 50 percent of the country’s foreign exchange in recent years and more than 25 percent of national GDP, while directly employing about 30,000 mine workers. These figures, he said, demonstrate the sector’s vital role in supporting government services, livelihoods, and local development across the country.
The MRA is committed to ensuring this contribution continues so Papua New Guinea remains a globally relevant mining jurisdiction for generations to come.
Performance of Operating Mines
Despite global market volatility, Kore said PNG’s seven operating mines continue to perform strongly, reinforcing the country’s resilience as a mining investment destination.
“Ok Tedi, our longest-running copper mine, continues to deliver consistent production and high economic value, particularly for Western Province and the national economy," he said.
Following reopening efforts, Porgera is regaining momentum. Restoring this major gold producer has been one of the PNG mining sector’s successes in recent years, regardless of the challenges it faces.
Lihir remains a world-class gold operation with strong production outlooks, supported by continued investment in operational efficiency. Ramu NiCo, PNG’s only nickel-cobalt operation, has stabilised and continues to supply critical minerals essential for global energy transition technologies.
Hidden Valley continues to support locally owned SMEs and regional development in Morobe Province, while Kainantu, driven by strong resource grades, is expanding and demonstrating PNG’s potential for high-grade gold systems as it transitions toward a tier-one project. Simberi, meanwhile, continues its turnaround and remains a major employer in New Ireland Province as it transitions from oxide- to sulphide-based mining.
Collectively, Kore said the seven operating mines contributed PGK17 billion to the PNG economy in 2024, a figure expected to rise in 2025. Over the past five years, they have generated 50 percent of the country’s total foreign exchange, with a single mine accounting for half of that contribution.
Safety Performance and Legislative Reform
Kore highlighted improvements in mine safety under the Mining (Safety) Act 1977 and the Mining (Safety) Regulation 1935, which are administered by the MRA. While acknowledging challenges in enforcing outdated legislation, he said the authority continues to regulate the industry effectively and requires compliance with international engineering and technical standards and industry best practices.
According to the MRA’s acting managing director, fatal accidents across operating mines declined from eight per year to zero between 2017 and 2022, with similar improvements recorded across other safety indicators. PNG’s safety record, he said, now stands higher than many mature mining jurisdictions globally.
He acknowledged the mining industry for working closely with the MRA to achieve these outcomes and announced that the authority will host the National Emergency Response Challenge Competition in November 2026. The MRA also addressed gender inclusion in the industry, noting longstanding requests from industry regarding underground work for women.
Kore announced, “I am pleased to announce that once the State Solicitor gives his legal clearance we will submit the revised Mine Safety Bill to the next sitting of Parliament for enactment. We will remove that provision so our professional female miners can work underground like their male colleagues.”
Real-Time Monitoring and Data Transparency
Amendments to the Mining Act 1992 in 2020 introduced real-time monitoring of mineral production and sales receipts, marking a major shift for the sector. All operating mines are now connected to the MRA Data Center, except one that is currently undergoing the connection process.
Access to live production data has significantly improved transparency compared with past uncertainties surrounding mineral production. The MRA has also commenced reviewing metal sales contracts and auditing sales receipts, calling on industry players to support these processes to ensure accurate payment of royalties, levies, and taxes.
Structural changes are also underway within the MRA to recruit and empower professionals responsible for auditing minerals from production through to sale.
Major Projects
Beyond existing operations, Kore said PNG is preparing for a new wave of transformational mining developments.
Wafi-Golpu, one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper-gold projects, is expected to become a major investment for the country, with arrangements for key agreements nearing completion. He said the government remains committed to advancing the project through a stable and transparent framework.
The Frieda River copper-gold project, another globally significant resource, also holds the potential to reshape the economic landscape of northwestern PNG, with ongoing work to ensure development aligns with environmental safeguards, community aspirations, and national goals.
Together, Kore said these projects represent tens of billions of kina in potential investment and signal to the world that PNG is ready for responsible and sustainable mining growth.
The national government has decided to merge the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management with the MRA, bringing policy, regulation, geological data, licensing, and oversight under one institution.
The merger aims to create a stronger, more efficient, and accountable regulatory system while assuring industry that ongoing MRA operations will not be disrupted during the transition.
Mining Act Review Targeted for 2026
A major priority under the new structure is the completion of the long-awaited review of the Mining Act 1992. Mr. Kore elaborated that the revised legislation is expected to be finalised and launched in 2026, modernising PNG’s regulatory framework to reflect global best practice, investor-friendly processes, stronger environmental and social safeguards, clarity for landowners and developers, and support for critical minerals and new technologies.
He described the reform as one of the most significant milestones for PNG’s resources sector in more than three decades.
Aligned with the conference theme of promoting sustainable investment, Mr. Kore said PNG is committed to ensuring mining creates shared value through improved environmental management, enhanced community benefits, downstream processing where viable, stronger transparency, and climate-resilient strategies.
PNG recognises that global capital increasingly flows to jurisdictions that demonstrate governance, stability, and sustainability, adding that the country is deliberately building that environment.
PNG Open for Business
PNG stands at a pivotal moment, with strong operating mines, major projects ahead, and a unified regulator marking a new chapter of opportunity and transformation.
Kore told international partners and investors, “PNG is open for business.” He added that investor confidence would be met with clarity, predictability, and professionalism, while assuring citizens that mining would remain a cornerstone of national development managed responsibly and transparently.
Inviting renewed engagement with the sector, Mr. Kore said, “To our investors, mining companies, infrastructure providers, financiers, we at MRA invite you to look at PNG with fresh eyes.”
He urged stakeholders to explore MRA databases, bring forward capital and technology, and partner with PNG to unlock new discoveries.
“Together, let us deliver value not just in metal output but in sustainable development, jobs, national revenue, and shared prosperity for PNGs people. Let us make Minerals Ready for Investment more than a theme let it be the legacy we build together.”
Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Petroleum Jimmy Maladina has formally addressed the newly sworn-in Board of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) under the National Petroleum Authority Act 2025. The ceremony was held 24 November in Port Moresby.
The inaugural NPA Board comprises:
Chairman Hubert Hanjause Namani
Mr. Dairi Vele (Deputy Chairman), chairman of the State Negotiating Team (SNT)
Managing Director of Ok Tedi
State Solicitor Mr. Daniel Rolpagarea
Secretary for Treasury Mr. Andrew Oaeke
Acting Managing Director and Secretary for Petroleum Dr. David Manau
Mr. Robert Nilkare, a prominent business leader
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Minister Maladina said the event represented more than the installation of a new board, describing it as a critical milestone in one of the most significant reforms in PNG’s petroleum governance landscape. He said the reform directly supports the transformation of the former Department of Petroleum into an independent, modern, and professional statutory regulator—the National Petroleum Authority.
The Minister welcomed the Board and commended its members for accepting the responsibility to serve at what he described as a pivotal moment in the history of the petroleum sector and the country’s broader economic development.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, Namani said the composition brings together a strong balance of commercial negotiation experience, legal and financial expertise, and regulatory continuity, positioning the NPA to deliver credible and effective petroleum governance.
“A credible regulator must first must first be an accountable regulator.”
The Board outlined its immediate priorities, including:
Strengthening governance frameworks
Organisational and people transformation
Establishing effective operational systems and regulatory processes
Long-term strategic development to ensure PNG remains globally competitive
Major Exploration Activities
Key upcoming and ongoing exploration activities include:
Mailu-1 wildcat well (TotalEnergies and PETRONAS) – Q1 2026
Nanamarope-1 well in PPL 579 (Larus Energy) – 2027
Ongoing preparations for the petroleum licensing bid round, with technical support from the Australian Government
Namani said the Board is encouraged by progress made by Peak Oil in advancing frontier exploration potential in the New Ireland Basin, noting the opportunities the emerging province may unlock for PNG’s future petroleum development.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring all projects are sustainably developed, responsibly regulated, transparent in approvals, and aligned with the long-term national interest.
He also called on NPA staff to demonstrate professionalism, unity, and dedication, stating, “You are the engine room of this institution. Your work will define the credibility of the NPA.”
“We look forward to building a modern, credible and high-performing petroleum regulator, one that protects the State’s interests, supports national development, and ensures the wealth beneath our land and seas benefits Papua New Guineans.”
Minister Maladina said the NPA will be central to shaping PNG’s petroleum future and will serve as the key enabler for effective and efficient promotion, monitoring, and regulation of both upstream and downstream petroleum activities.
He said the Authority will be responsible for safeguarding national interests, ensuring fair returns from resources, and protecting landowner rights, adding that its work will directly influence investor confidence and future industry partnerships.
“Your leadership and stewardship will shape how this Authority delivers on its mandate and how confidently our industry, investors, landowners, and international partners engage with Papua New Guinea,” he told the Board.
Ten Priority Areas for PNG’s Petroleum Sector
Minister Maladina outlined 10 key priorities requiring the Board’s full oversight:
Papua LNG Project
He reaffirmed the national importance of progressing the Papua LNG Project toward Final Investment Decision (FID), stating the NPA must ensure regulatory clarity and timely approvals.
Pasca A Gas Project
Reiterating its significance as PNG’s first offshore gas-condensate development, he said Pasca A must proceed with discipline, transparency, and strong regulatory oversight.
Stanley Gas Project
He highlighted the project’s potential for early gas utilisation and domestic market growth, calling for strict adherence to regulatory and fiscal expectations.
Production Sharing Contract (PSC) Fiscal and Regulatory Reform
The Minister said PNG is transitioning to a PSC-based regime and urged the Board to help establish world-class regulatory systems, fiscal frameworks, and operational standards.
Block Bid Rounds, New Exploration, and Future Developments
He emphasised the revival of exploration through a transparent and competitive licensing framework.
Downstream Petroleum Regulation and Processing
Minister Maladina underscored the importance of downstream development for energy security and industrialisation, tasking the NPA with enforcing compliance and supporting investments in refining and petrochemical initiatives.
Landowner Benefits and Affairs Management
Describing landowner matters as central to sector stability, he said the Authority must ensure accuracy, transparency, and fairness in benefit distribution, clan vetting, project agreements, and community engagement.
National Gas Master Plan
He stressed the need for a long-term national strategy to guide gas utilisation across domestic and export markets.
Environmental, Climate Change, and ESG Frameworks
The Minister reminded the Board that PNG must strengthen environmental compliance and emissions monitoring as the global energy transition accelerates.
Full Establishment of the NPA under MTDP IV
He said full operationalisation of the Authority is essential to achieving petroleum targets under the Medium-Term Development Plan IV.
“The Board’s leadership will determine how quickly and effectively the Authority reaches full functionality,” he added.
Minister Maladina reminded Board members that their decisions will shape billions of kina in investment and directly affect the livelihoods of landowners.
“I have full confidence in your expertise, your integrity, and your collective wisdom. Together, let us build an NPA that Papua New Guinea can trust, that investors can respect, and that future generations can be proud of.”
He congratulated the Board on their appointment and reaffirmed his commitment to work closely with them to deliver a shared vision for a strong, transparent, and competitive petroleum sector.
A 1-megawatt Buin Solar Farm was officially launched last Friday in Buin Town, marking a major milestone in Bougainville’s renewable energy journey.
The project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), will deliver clean and reliable electricity to homes, schools, hospitals and businesses across Buin and its surrounding communities — reaching nearly 80 percent of the population.
In his welcoming remarks, Chief Albert Nukuitu reflected on the community’s determination to keep Buin powered through difficult years.
“In 2018, we formed Buin Power — a community-driven effort that ran 22 hours a day without government funding,” he said. “These young people gave their lives to serve the community and deserve recognition as Bougainville Power moves forward.”
The solar farm now transforms that legacy into a regionwide power solution, integrating solar panels, battery storage and backup generators to ensure a constant energy supply while cutting fossil fuel dependency.
President Ishmael Toroama, in his keynote address, commended the people of Bougainville for their resilience and unity, describing the solar project as a milestone in the region’s journey towards self-reliance.
“What we have achieved today is not by chance,” he said. “It is through our own hands, our pride and our unity as Bougainvilleans. Peace is here to stay.”
The President expressed gratitude to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to take ownership of projects that contribute to Bougainville’s growth.
“We must take ownership of our land, our power and our future,” he said. “When we work together, we strengthen our journey towards independence.”
Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bougainville, describing the project as a reflection of long-standing friendship and cooperation.
“This solar farm will help stimulate the local economy by improving access to clean energy,” the Ambassador said.
He also highlighted Japan’s ongoing assistance to Bougainville, including the construction of 15 coastal bridges, support for the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the building of new school facilities.
UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth noted that the event coincided with United Nations Day, marking 80 years since the UN Charter came into force and 50 years since Papua New Guinea joined the UN.
“Bougainville once knew the scars of war, but today it stands for peace,” Booth said. “This solar farm represents renewal — linking peace, equality and sustainable development.”
He added that the project will reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, deliver steady power to essential services and directly benefit more than 200 households.
Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei also acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan and UNDP, describing the initiative as a vital step towards Bougainville’s energy independence.
“Bougainville Power will manage generation and distribution across Buin, Arawa and Buka,” he said, adding that upcoming government initiatives — including plans for a new hospital, teachers’ college, market facilities and major road improvements — will also be supported by this project.
The Buin Solar Farm will expand its network to nearby villages and missions, including Piano, Tokaino, Tabago and Kangu, covering a 48-kilometre radius.
Papua New Guinea’s agricultural production and productivity have been in steady decline for more than two decades, and continued emphasis on policies and legislation will not reverse the trend unless there is a fundamental change in how farming is carried out on the ground, according to Farmers and Settlers Association President Wilson Thompson in an interview with PNG Business News.
Agriculture accounts for roughly one‑third of Papua New Guinea’s GDP and supports around 80 percent of the population through smallholder and cash‑crop farming. Coffee and cocoa remain the country’s main export commodities after palm oil, but export volumes and production performance have weakened over the long term.
Exports of coffee and cocoa, for example, fell significantly in the period from 2009 to 2018, with average annual declines of export volumes of around 6 percent per year for these crops. Agriculture’s share of total export earnings has also trended downward in recent decades as competitive pressures and production challenges have grown. (World Bank)
Thompson called for a renewed focus on rehabilitation of existing plantations and block‑holder areas, describing it as a faster and more practical way to increase export volumes than continued emphasis on policy frameworks alone.
He pointed specifically to rubber as a clear opportunity for production recovery.
“Rehabilitation of 2,000 hectares of rubber in Abau, Central, and 3,000 hectares of coffee at Arona Valley, Eastern Highlands Province, can give us additional volumes,” he said.
PNG’s cocoa sector has faced long‑running production challenges, including pests such as cocoa pod borer that emerged in the late 2000s and cut yields significantly in key provinces. Cocoa export tonnages fell from over 52,000 tonnes in 2008 to around 33,000 tonnes by 2015, although production later recovered somewhat. Cocoa remains a vital crop for rural incomes, but low and stagnant yields continue to limit growth.
Similarly, coffee production — historically the backbone of rural cash incomes — has declined relative to its past strength. Long‑standing issues such as ageing trees, pests and insufficient replanting have kept productivity low, and the nation’s share of global coffee exports has diminished over the last 20 years.
Thompson said key export crops including coffee, cocoa, coconut, rubber, spices and livestock were all recording declining outputs, warning that the sector was at a critical crossroads. He pointed out that agriculture in PNG performed better in earlier decades because of a strong focus on commercial farming systems that directly supported smallholders.
“Agriculture was progressing from the colonial era because they pushed commercial farming or plantations and blocks that supported the smallholders,” he said, adding that the model created scale, consistency and long‑term production discipline.
Thompson said the country could reverse current trends by prioritising large‑scale nursery development, coordinated planting programs and stronger extension services to support farmers during the crucial pre‑harvest years.
“We can change by engaging in massive nursery and planting efforts, maybe using machinery, and getting extension services down there to encourage growers to keep working for three to four years before harvest,” he said.
He further commented that isolated commercial investments, while positive, would not deliver national‑level impact unless matched by widespread smallholder participation.
“If Colbran Coffee Plantations is planting 200 hectares in one year, we cannot expect the figures to change if 2,000 farmers are not tending their 500 hectares in the same year,” Thompson said, highlighting the scale required to lift national production statistics.
According to Thompson, the downward trend in agricultural output is not new, noting that export volumes have been falling since the turn of the century.
“Whether it’s coffee or cocoa or rubber, I’ve said it — since 2000 the production and productivity and exports are declining,” he said.
He also questioned the effectiveness of long‑running donor‑funded programs, saying years of support had failed to deliver meaningful improvements.
“Even after 15 years of World Bank and other donor support to coffee and cocoa, the story has not changed, and we need to change our approach as we are not progressing,” Thompson said.
He concluded that continued discussions around policy frameworks and strategies, without action on the production side, would not address the sector’s core problem.
“Continuing to talk about policies and strategies, or producing more reports, will not solve the problem,” Thompson said. “We need to work on the production side, as whatever we produce is being sold.”
Thompson said restoring productivity through practical, coordinated action at the farm level was the only sustainable pathway to reviving PNG’s agriculture sector and strengthening its export performance.
The Asian Development Bank has approved three projects worth a combined $275 million to expand access to finance, improve rural connectivity and boost low-carbon electricity supply in Papua New Guinea.
The financing package includes support for financial sector reforms, clean energy development and road infrastructure aimed at strengthening economic activity and access to essential services across the country.
“ADB is committed to investing in essential infrastructure, creating a more enabling environment for private sector development, and assisting the Government of PNG to implement transformative power sector reforms that improve lives and livelihoods,” said ADB Officer-in-Charge for Papua New Guinea Soon Chan Hong.
A $100 million policy-based loan will fund the first subprogramme of the Improving Financial Access Programme, which seeks to strengthen the regulatory and institutional framework for domestic and international financial services. These include payments, remittances, credit and capital markets. The programme is also intended to support households and businesses in generating employment and trade opportunities. A second subprogramme will continue the reform process and help sustain improved access to finance nationwide.
Another $100 million loan, alongside a $10 million grant from the Japan Fund for the Joint Crediting Mechanism, will finance the Sustainable Energy Sector Development Programme. Implemented through two subprogrammes, the initiative will support the government in improving the adequacy of PNG’s low-carbon electricity supply.
The programme will also assist in establishing an enabling policy framework to restore the sustainability of the power sector, revitalise PNG Power Limited’s operational performance, and increase private sector participation in delivering clean, affordable and reliable electricity.
In addition, a $65 million loan will support the Transport Project Readiness Facility, which will focus on upgrading and rehabilitating subnational roads across the Southern, Highlands, Momase and New Guinea Islands regions. The roads form part of key economic corridors and align with government priorities under the Medium Term Development Plan IV (2023–2027) and the National Road Network Strategy (2018–2037).
The transport project aims to improve connectivity for rural communities, particularly those producing coffee, copra, cocoa, tea, vanilla and other agricultural commodities, linking them more effectively to markets and essential services such as health and education.
ADB is a multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Founded in 1966, it is owned by 69 members, including 50 from the region, and works with governments and partners to deliver quality infrastructure and development solutions.
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.
PNG CR Services is boosting female participation in the country’s construction sector through its Wok Meri Strong Program, a structured workforce development initiative integrated into the company’s project delivery model.
The program is designed to increase meaningful and sustainable participation of women across PNG CR’s construction and infrastructure projects. It provides safe, supported pathways into an industry traditionally dominated by men, focusing on paid, on-the-job training combined with mentoring and formal skills development. Participants gain real-world experience while meeting industry safety, quality, and governance standards.
The program primarily targets female Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates and entry-level candidates. Participants are placed on live project sites, working under the supervision of experienced professionals. This approach ensures practical exposure to the realities of construction work rather than short-term or symbolic placements.
PNG CR Services’ Managing Director, Allan Tyson, said Wok Meri Strong reflects the company’s commitment to long-term national capability building. “The program moves beyond compliance-based gender targets to create a skilled and confident female workforce that can contribute meaningfully to Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure development,” he said.
Training includes comprehensive site induction and health, safety, and environment (HSE) instruction, alongside trade-specific skills development in areas such as carpentry, civil works, painting, logistics, and site administration. Participants also receive soft-skills training and ongoing mentoring from senior supervisors.
A key feature of Wok Meri Strong is its structured rotation system, which allows participants to work across different project areas. This exposure provides insight into project planning, quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes, and overall site operations, broadening participants’ technical knowledge and professional confidence.
Beyond technical training, the program incorporates safeguarding, workplace wellbeing, and leadership development components. These elements are designed to ensure women can progress confidently and sustainably within the construction sector, while also being supported in transitioning into long-term employment or further TVET up-skilling.
The program recently supported four TVET graduates from PNG Women in Construction, providing structured on-the-job training during November–December. Participants gained practical skills and a clear pathway into long-term employment in the construction industry. Currently, female graduates are active across four project sites in PNG, and PNG CR Services plans to welcome an additional 20 graduates next year.
By embedding Wok Meri Strong directly into its project operations, PNG CR Services positions the program as a legacy initiative—supporting women today while contributing to a stronger, more inclusive construction workforce for the future.
State-owned enterprises, businesses, companies, and key government departments in the nation’s capital have joined a unified campaign to address gender-based violence (GBV) in Papua New Guinea, with the Governor of the National Capital District acknowledging that the government itself has been the major missing link in adequately tackling this crisis.
The Department of Community Development and Religion, in collaboration with the National Capital District Commission, UN Women, the European Union, the Government of Australia, the Government of the United States of America, and development partners, convened a joint press conference on November 25 to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls.
This was part of the 20 Days of Human Rights Activism launched on November 20 in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province.
This year’s global theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,” focuses on addressing rapidly increasing online and technology-facilitated violence, including cyberbullying, harassment, and non-consensual image sharing.
PNG’s national theme, “It’s My Responsibility – Let’s Work Together to Prevent All Forms of Violence,” links this effort with the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary, emphasizing shared responsibility across all sectors and communities.
The conference highlighted the EVAW and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign that runs annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day).
Throughout the 16 Days, partners also mark World AIDS Day (December 1), the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3), and other key observances with joint advocacy, digital campaigns, human rights trainings, sign language training, film festivals, and youth-led actions that reinforce the message of dignity, equality, and safety for all.
Hon. Jason Peter, MP and Minister for Community Development and Religion, said: “We join the world in marking the International Day for Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.
Violence against women and girls remains one of our greatest human rights and development challenges, and ending it is both a national priority and a shared responsibility that begins with each of us."
He added that the government, with the strong support of our development partners, NGOs, and community leaders, is taking practical actions to end violence. "On this special day, I call on families, schools, workplaces, men and boys, and leaders at all levels to promote respect, equality, and responsibility as we work together to make our country (PNG) safer and fairer for all women and girls," he said.
Hon. Powes Parkop, MP, Governor of the National Capital District, said: “Let us all stand together to take a stand to end violence against women and girls at home, in the workplace, in public places, and in cyberspace.”
For his part, Mr. Richard Howard, UN Resident Coordinator in PNG, said that violence against women and girls in Papua New Guinea remains a major barrier to equality and development.
"This year’s call to unite to end digital violence against all women and girls reminds us that safety must reach every space, including the online world where many still face abuse and intimidation. Real change needs leadership, accountability, and a shift in attitudes among men and boys. Together with the government, civil society, and partners like Australia, the EU, the Republic of Korea, and the United States, we can support a country where every woman and girl lives with safety and dignity, both online and offline," he said.
Ms. Elizabeth LeBas, Minister Counsellor, Australian High Commission to Papua New Guinea, said that Australia stands side by side with PNG in calling for an end to all forms of violence against women and girls, including online.
"Empowering and ending violence against women and girls is a key priority of the PNG-Australia Partnership – in all that we do and everywhere we work. We recognize that safety is important online and offline. Australia’s Online Safety Act of 2021 and the introduction of a social media ban for under-16s place Australia at the international forefront in the fight against online harm," she said.
LeBas said taht Australia will continue to work with PNG partners to address, respond to, and prevent violence – including gender-based violence (GBV) and sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) – and empower women and girls through PNG Women Lead and Law and Justice Partnership.
Her Excellency Erika Hasnoz, Ambassador, Delegation of the European Union to PNG, said that the European Union is a strong global defender of the human rights of women and girls and opposes all forms of gender-based violence, including online and technology-facilitated.
"In Papua New Guinea, the EU is funding several programs that empower women and girls. For example, we support GBV referral pathways for survivors, are revitalizing the Village Court System, and develop digital skills for women and girls. This is made possible by the engagement and determination of PNG authorities and all stakeholders," Hasnoz siad.
U.S. Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Ann Marie Yastishock, said: “The United States takes every opportunity to defend and promote women and girls across the world. Gender-based violence undermines stability and prosperity. When women and girls are safe, nations are stronger, and communities can reach their full potential.”
The Department (DFCDR) and UN Women acknowledged the longstanding leadership and support of the European Union Delegation, the Government of Australia, the Government of the United States of America, NCDC, and the GBV Secretariat in advancing gender equality, strengthening GBV prevention systems, and enabling community-driven change across Papua New Guinea.
The awareness programs were hosted by Hon. Powes Parkop in conjunction with the 20 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Community awareness programs were run by the National District Commission from November 20–30 at different locations across Port Moresby, especially in urban settlements and busy suburbs. The program included free movie screenings, awareness talks, community cleanups, and community mobilization for change.
Governor Parkop Leads as Businesses and Companies Commit to Support and Combat GBV
Governor Parkop, as Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, secured commitments from administrative heads of SOEs, including Air Niugini, PNG Ports Corporation, and the National Development Bank, alongside representatives from the United Nations and disciplinary forces, to actively join the campaign with the Redvember End Violence Against Women (EVAW) Walk on November 30, 2025.
This program strategically focuses on the active participation of the government in NCD as an essential first step, with all Secretaries of Departments, Chairmen of Boards, CEOs, and MDs of state-owned enterprises and other agencies signing a pledge to take all steps to end GBV in their departments, organizations, and lives.
Governor Parkop said that while the NCD Commission, as the municipal government of Port Moresby, has taken the lead in becoming the gold standard organization with zero tolerance for GBV at the workplace, in communities, and at homes, NCDC alone cannot succeed unless all other government organizations in the city also join NCDC’s efforts.
“The success of the National GBV Response and Prevention Strategy requires all levels of government in the city to take leadership and walk the talk. Otherwise, all our efforts and resources will continue to fail. NCDC and all national government departments and agencies have to take ownership and implement the strategy before we call on our people to follow suit.”
To highlight this commitment, two major awareness events were scheduled:
The Corporate EVAW Walk: Organized by the corporate sector on November 21.
The Whole-of-Government Redvember EVAW Walk: Led by Governor Parkop and involving government departments, state agencies, and SOEs on November 30.
Redvember 2025, ‘A Sea of Red’
Businesses, companies, and government organizations came together in a national stand as part of the 16 Days of Activism on Sunday, November 30, for the Walk to End Violence, especially against women and girls.
Governor Powes Parkop acknowledged the thousands of people who participated in this year’s Redvember Walk, calling the massive turnout a significant moment and a tipping point in the campaign to eliminate violence against women and girls.
The turnout was described as a “sea of red” stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers, temporarily stopping traffic along the Poreporena Freeway for up to two hours from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m.
The day’s program included secretaries and CEOs signing a pledge to take concrete action and integrate the GBV strategy into their corporate plans, codes of ethics, and contracts of employment across all government departments, SOEs, and state agencies.
Governor Parkop specifically acknowledged participation from 23 government departments, Members of Parliament, State Ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, SOEs, agencies of state, and city residents. He also recognized the commitment of the private sector, civil society organizations, and community groups, including Active City, Amazing Port Moresby, and Men of Honor from the Digicel Foundation.
“When government starts to make and take the pledge and walk the talk, that’s when real change starts to happen. This leading action in Port Moresby will create a ripple effect, ultimately contributing to efforts across the country to end GBV and violence against women.”
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