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PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) proudly announces the participation of its Chief Commercial Officer Deborah Michelle Onga as a panellist at the 2025 International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) World Ports Conference, held from 7–9 October in Kobe, Japan. The conference, celebrating the IAPH’s 70th anniversary, gathered more than 200 global port authorities and 170 port-related businesses under the theme “Reinvention and Prosperity in Turbulent Times.” The event brought together international leaders from the IMO, World Bank, UNCTAD, and major global maritime organisations to explore how ports can achieve sustainable growth in an era marked by geopolitical uncertainty, conflict, and climate change. Maximising the Value of Port Land through Smarter Concessions Onga was invited as a panellist for the session “Maximising the Value of Port Land through Smarter Concessions,” joining distinguished speakers from Thailand, Chile, and Canada. The discussion focused on how port authorities can structure smarter concession agreements to ensure land is used for its highest economic, operational, and strategic value. She explained how smarter concessions can transform PNG Ports from a traditional landlord into a strategic asset manager and development catalyst, maximising long-term economic, social, and environmental value for the nation. Drawing on her leadership of PNG Ports’ commercialisation strategy and its flagship Lae Industrial Park development, Ms. Onga highlighted the company’s ambition to unlock the commercial potential of all 15 of its ports — not only the major gateways of Lae and Port Moresby but also its vital regional ports, including its loss-making CSO ports. She outlined how improved land utilisation, coupled with a transparent and standardised concession framework, can strengthen investor confidence, ensure governance and integrity, and align with government policy and Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) oversight standards. Her insights positioned Papua New Guinea as a model for how small developing nations can approach port land management strategically — using concession frameworks that strengthen trade competitiveness, sustainability, and community benefit. Representing the Pacific at a Global Forum Onga’s inclusion on the IAPH panel marked a historic milestone — positioning Papua New Guinea at the forefront of Pacific representation on the world stage. While delegates from Fiji, Solomon Islands, and other Pacific nations were in attendance, Onga was the only Pacific voice featured on the official speaker program. Her participation symbolised a turning point for the Pacific region, which has long been under-represented in global port and maritime discussions. She spearheaded conversations not only for PNG but also for the broader Pacific Islands on how developing economies can transform their ports into engines of national and regional prosperity. “It was a profound honour to speak for Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific at such an influential global forum,” said Onga. “For too long, our region’s expertise and perspectives have been overlooked. This opportunity demonstrates that the Pacific has strong, capable voices with real experience to contribute to the global maritime sector.” She also expressed her appreciation for the collaboration and advocacy of Mike Gallagher, CEO of Ports Australia, whose support helped secure her inclusion on the panel. “I am sincerely grateful to Mike Gallagher for recognising the importance of Pacific representation and for championing the inclusion of Papua New Guinea. His support ensured our region had a seat at the table — and a voice in shaping the future of global ports,” she said. Bringing Global Insights Home Accompanied by PNG Ports Director Ms. Belinda Manning, Onga also gained valuable insights from broader conference discussions centred on how ports can achieve real growth when supply chain resilience is tested by conflict and climate change. Through networking and dialogue with international peers, Onga and Manning return with key learnings on resilient infrastructure investment, sustainable port innovation, and effective governance frameworks — insights they plan to incorporate into PNG Ports’ future operations, along with a strategy to drive greater Pacific representation and active engagement with the IAPH. “The knowledge and global connections gained from this conference will help PNG Ports advance its commercialisation strategy and position Papua New Guinea’s ports as regional leaders in sustainability and trade facilitation,” Onga added. Founded in 1955, the IAPH is a global alliance representing over 200 port authorities and 173 businesses across more than 90 nations. The Association serves as a key platform for collaboration, policy exchange, and innovation among the world’s leading maritime and logistics organisations. The 2025 conference marked its 70th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to connecting ports and people worldwide.

South Pacific Metals Corp. has announced the discovery of new gold-copper mineralized zones at Golkona South, part of its Anga Project in Papua New Guinea. The Anga Project lies immediately northeast of, and contiguous with, K92 Mining’s tenements in the Kainantu District — a region widely recognised as one of PNG’s most prospective gold-copper belts. Highlights – Golkona South A 2.2 × 1.1 km gold-in-soil anomaly has been identified, with high soil assays (peak value of 1,080 ppb Au) — the highest soil gold values reported on the Anga Project to date. Two zones of high copper (>1,000 ppm Cu) and silver (>250 ppb Ag) in soil samples, with peak results up to 3,397 ppm Cu and 2,160 ppb Ag, are located within the broader gold-in-soil anomaly. Panned concentrate samples from streams draining Golkona South contain up to 282 ppm Au, indicating a local mineralized source. The anomalous area aligns with mobile MT conductivity features, which correlate with known deposits in the Kainantu region. Regional interpretation shows a northeasterly trend in geophysical and structural features, with K92’s Arakompa deposit situated along the same trend to the southwest. Next steps Geochemical sampling will continue at Golkona South, the adjacent Golkona prospect, and across the broader Anga tenement. Geological reconnaissance and mapping will aim to better understand the mineralization style and prospectivity. The results will be integrated with past geochemical and geophysical data to define initial drill targets. SPMC Chief Executive Officer Timo Jauristo said the latest findings reinforce the potential of the Anga tenements. “We are very pleased with these latest soil geochemical results at Golkona South. “The potential of Golkona South and the Anga tenements is highlighted by these results and their location along the northeasterly trend from K92’s large and growing Arakompa project. We look forward to continuing to advance this project, although our immediate priority is the imminent start of drilling to test the exciting epithermal vein targets at Ontenu NE," Jauristo said. South Pacific Metals Corp. is an emerging gold-copper exploration company operating within Papua New Guinea’s proven mineral belts. With an expansive 3,100 km² land package and four key projects — Anga, Osena, Kili Teke, and May River — the Company is advancing systematic exploration across assets located alongside major producers K92 Mining, PanAust, and Barrick/Zijin. The Anga and Osena Projects, which flank K92’s high-grade Kainantu operations, show potential for lode-gold and porphyry copper-gold mineralization similar to that of K92’s deposits. Kili Teke, 40 km from the Porgera Gold Mine, hosts an Inferred Mineral Resource with room for expansion, while May River sits adjacent to the world-class Frieda River copper-gold project, with historical drilling suggesting significant untapped potential.

Papua New Guinea’s petroleum sector remains ripe with opportunity despite recent slowdowns in exploration activity, according to David Manau, Secretary for the Department of Petroleum, who delivered a compelling presentation on 8 October at the 2025 Papua New Guinea Petroleum & Energy Conference (PEC) under the theme “Exploration Operations – Is There a Future?” In his address, Secretary Manau affirmed that exploration indeed has a future, stressing that the challenge lies not in questioning its existence but in shaping its direction through strategic policies, partnerships and investment frameworks. “Exploration is not just a technical process, it is a strategic choice. It’s about how we position our country, attract investment, and unlock long-term value for our people and stakeholders,” he said. Secretary Manau highlighted PNG’s strong energy fundamentals, stating that the country holds an estimated 25 trillion cubic feet of gas — among the largest reserves in the Asia-Pacific region. While oil production has declined over the past three decades, PNG’s pivot to liquefied natural gas (LNG) has strengthened its role as a rising energy exporter. He said Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) continues to play a traditional key role as the State’s equity holder, while the newly established National Petroleum Authority (NPA) now serves as a dedicated institution to promote exploration and de-risk investment in partnership with industry players. Untapped petroleum basins PNG currently has five petroleum basins: Papuan, North New Guinea, Cape Vogel, Bougainville and New Ireland. However, only the Papuan Basin is producing, contributing about 17 percent of PNG’s GDP. “The other four basins are underexplored, not because they lack potential, but because they lack data and targeted policy support,” Secretary Manau said. He emphasised that unlocking these basins could diversify national revenue, transform PNG’s energy landscape and deliver tangible benefits for all stakeholders. Exploration trends and fiscal incentives Between 2020 and 2025, the country saw a sharp decline in exploration activity, with prospecting licences dropping from 104 to just 40. No high-impact wildcat wells were drilled during that period, except for Mailu-1, which has now been rescheduled for drilling in the first quarter of 2026. Despite the downturn, exploration spending continued, supported by fiscal incentives under Section 155N of the Income Tax Act, which allowed the amortisation of exploration costs between 2019 and 2023. “This resulted in over K10 billion in forgone revenue, which is not a loss, but a signal of sustained investor interest,” Secretary Manau explained. Emerging offshore hotspots Secretary Manau said PNG’s offshore potential is gaining momentum, with multi-client seismic surveys such as Painimaut 2D and Nanamarope 3D conducted in the Gulf of Papua. These vendor-funded surveys, he said, have attracted growing industry attention. “These multi-client seismic campaigns are not just technical exercises, they are market signals,” he said. “The Gulf of Papua is rapidly emerging as PNG’s next exploration hotspot. These surveys lay the groundwork for future licensing bid rounds and offshore investment.” The National Petroleum Authority will continue to support such initiatives as key tools for unlocking frontier potential. New and proprietary exploration projects PNG’s upstream sector is showing renewed confidence through new and ongoing exploration efforts. Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited has completed seismic campaigns in Kimu and Barikewa, while AIE has conducted infill work near P’nyang using advanced Vibroseis technology. Frontier projects are also progressing, including TotalEnergies’ deepwater Mailu-1 well — a high-impact wildcat estimated to cost between USD 50 million and USD 80 million — and ExxonMobil’s Wildebeest prospect in Gulf Province. “Mailu-1 could open a new offshore hydrocarbon province,” Secretary Manau said, adding that Petronas’ farm-in to PL 576 validated the project’s significant potential. He also noted new exploration initiatives across multiple basins: Heritage Oil’s Malisa Prospect near P’nyang (estimated 2 Tcf of wet gas), Peak Oil’s Exotica Prospect in New Ireland and Larus Energy’s Nanamapore Prospect in Central Province. “These initiatives demonstrate that PNG’s exploration and upstream sector is reactivating,” he added. Leveraging existing infrastructure Secretary Manau outlined a brownfield exploration strategy that prioritises near-field prospects close to existing LNG and pipeline infrastructure. “This approach reduces costs, accelerates development and enhances investor confidence,” he explained. He cited the Angore Pipeline Tie-in Project and the Agogogo Tie-in as examples of efficient integration, adding that these connections also support domestic gas supply and national energy access. Secretary Manau said PNG is preparing for a transition to a Production Sharing Regime (PSA) by 2026 — a move expected to balance risk and reward more effectively and attract investors to frontier areas. “The NPA is preparing bid rounds, facilitating multi-client seismic permits, and advancing data-driven governance to improve transparency and investor engagement,” he said. He called for strategic government intervention, particularly in frontier regions such as Western Province, where several marginal gas fields exist. According to Secretary Manau, PNG’s energy future depends on aligning fiscal and regulatory frameworks, leveraging existing infrastructure and positioning the nation as a regional gas hub anchored by major projects like Papua LNG, P’nyang and Pasca A. “The foundation is in place. The partnerships are forming. The data is improving. Let us move forward with clarity, confidence and commitment,” he concluded.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) is pleased to announce the signing of a non-binding gas supply term sheet with ArranEnergy, a subsidiary of Trans Wonderland Limited (TWL), to purchase gas from its Stanley Gas Fields in Western Province. This marks a major step toward the company’s plans to achieve its Growth 2050 Energy Transition Strategy and decarbonise its operations. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ok Tedi Manager for Energy Transition Anton Safronov said that the signing is a significant milestone for Ok Tedi and the first of many steps to be taken as the company work towards decarbonising our operations under its Growth 2050 Strategy. “This event signifies more than just our decarbonisation targets—it also reflects our commitment to using local products and creating more employment opportunities for our people," Safronov said. Ok Tedi Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit said “PNG has not really developed the liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply for its domestic market. So Ok Tedi, being 100% PNG-owned, is happy to be the first to enter this segment with Trans Wonderland and ArranEnergy. We will now generate power and drive trucks using gas from the Stanley LNG Project.” Ilimbit reiterated Safronov’s sentiments on reducing Ok Tedi’s carbon footprint, while highlighting the need to de-risk the business for the future. He said Ok Tedi’s supply of imported fuel—especially diesel for its operations and electricity generation—has always depended on river levels along the Fly River. The Stanley LNG Project now provides an alternative energy source, allowing Ok Tedi to transition to cleaner, locally produced gas with a reduced carbon footprint and lower costs. Ok Tedi’s current thermal generation produces 60 megawatts (MW) of power for daily operational consumption. Ilimbit also noted that plans are in place to further enhance hydro generation facilities and to expand the use of gas across the company’s mobile fleet. The Stanley LNG Project will be instrumental in decarbonising Ok Tedi’s operations and supporting a more resilient, sustainable future for the company and its stakeholders. Key benefits of the Stanley LNG initiative include: Supporting Ok Tedi’s decarbonisation journey by enabling a transition from diesel to locally sourced natural gas, in line with Papua New Guinea’s climate ambitions. Improving operational resilience by reducing reliance on diesel—especially during periods when river transport is disrupted—and ensuring a stable, local energy supply. Positioning Ok Tedi as an industry leader in energy and emissions efficiency, with performance already ahead of peer mines in the country. Serving as one of the three key pillars of Ok Tedi’s decarbonisation strategy, alongside hydropower expansion and electrification of mining fleets, as it works toward achieving its long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. TWL Managing Director Larry Andagali expressed excitement about the prospect of selling processed gas within PNG, as opposed to focusing solely on exports. “The next 50 years are looking brighter, and this partnership signifies better things to come. We have a vast natural gas resource, but the question is: how can we best add value to it for our people after processing? Our answer lies in supplying the domestic gas users’ market," Andagali said. “We thank Ok Tedi for this partnership and hope that more businesses in the country will follow suit to ensure the sustainable use of our natural resources for an improved quality of life for all our people in PNG," he added. Ok Tedi, being 100% PNG-owned, remains committed to responsible mining and to operating with excellence to deliver sustainable legacies for its stakeholders. Earlier, OTML and the National Energy Authority (NEA) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to advance the Lighting Up the West (LTW) initiative—a transformative program aimed at expanding access to reliable, affordable, and clean energy across Western, West Sepik, and East Sepik Provinces. The MoA, signed by Ok Tedi Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit and NEA Managing Director Ronald Meketa, establishes a framework for regulatory cooperation, licensing, and stakeholder engagement to deliver rural electrification through decentralised renewable energy (DRE) solutions in the short to medium term, and hydropower in the long term. The initiative aligns with Papua New Guinea’s national goal to achieve 70 percent electricity access by 2030 and 100 percent by 2050, prioritising renewable energy sources such as solar and hydro. Ok Tedi, through its subsidiary Ok Tedi Power, will lead the deployment of DRE solutions to anchor communities, with feasibility studies currently underway in Western, West Sepik, and East Sepik Provinces. The program is designed to deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits, including improved quality of life, local enterprise development, reduced emissions, and enhanced energy independence.

Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) coconut industry is set for a major transformation through a new partnership between the Marape-Rosso Government and Sri Lanka’s Jaindi Exports Pvt Limited, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of coconut-based food and beverage products. The partnership, announced during a two-day visit by Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru and his delegation to Sri Lanka, will lead to the establishment of a large-scale coconut processing plant in Madang Province under a joint venture (JV) arrangement between the PNG Government and Jaindi Exports. The project, to be built on 20 hectares of land owned by the Madang Provincial Government at Siar along the North Coast Road, aims to shift PNG’s traditional copra-based coconut industry toward a modern, value-added sector producing high-end coconut products for both domestic and export markets. “This project will transform the entire coconut industry in PNG,” said Minister Maru. “Labouring to make copra and selling to copra mills to produce crude coconut oil will be a thing of the past. Our farmers will harvest and sell coconuts directly to the processing plant, where every part of the coconut—from the husk to the shell and the water—will be processed into finished products for export.” Under the joint venture, the State will hold 51 percent of shares, while Jaindi Exports will hold 49 percent. The project is expected to cost K100 million, with the government committing K50 million in equity funding from the 2025 Public Investment Program (PIP) Budget. “The State’s equity contribution is ready, and we are ready to start this project,” Minister Maru confirmed. Once operational, the proposed processing plant is expected to create about 1,000 new jobs in Madang Province and stimulate increased coconut production across the region. According to Managing Director of the Kokonas Indastri Koporesen (KIK), Mr Alan Aku, Madang was chosen based on KIK’s census data showing the province has three million coconut trees capable of producing 206 million nuts per year. “That is the primary reason why we will be setting up the proposed processing plant in Madang. If this project is successful, we will look to build more processing plants in East New Britain and Bougainville,” Mr Aku said. Building on this, Minister Maru revealed that the government will seek National Executive Council (NEC) approval for the joint venture, along with the creation of a new Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to be known as the Siar SEZ. The coconut processing plant will be located within this SEZ, which will serve as an industrial park distinct from the Madang Integrated SEZ that focuses on the fishing industry. During their visit, the PNG delegation—which included Madang Governor Hon. Ramsey Pariwa, Secretary for International Trade and Investment Mrs Jacinta Warakai-Manua, and KIK Managing Director Mr Aku—toured Jaindi Exports’ world-class processing facilities and observed the company’s diverse product lines. Minister Maru described Jaindi’s operations as impressive, noting their range of products such as coconut cream, milk, oil, sugar, butter, whipping cream, ice cream, vinegar, virgin oil, coconut water, flour, chips, and milk drinks. He said these products are in high demand globally as consumers increasingly seek healthy and natural alternatives. He added that global demand for coconut products had risen sharply from US$15 billion in 2015 to US$40 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach US$60 billion by 2030. “Jaindi Exports is struggling to meet increasing global demand and is expanding to PNG to take advantage of our proximity to key markets like Australia, Asia, and Oceania. With our EPA access to the European Union, we can also start exporting organic coconut by-products to Europe,” Minister Maru said. To commemorate the partnership, Jaindi Exports hosted a customary event that featured a Sri Lankan cultural performance, the lighting of an oil lamp, and the planting of two coconut trees at Navik Mills to symbolise the new relationship. Minister Maru extended an invitation to Jaindi Exports Founder and Managing Director Mr K.M. Sampath Anuruddha and his executives to visit PNG later this month to finalise partnership arrangements and inspect the project site in Madang. Governor Ramsey Pariwa welcomed the development, saying he looked forward to hosting the Jaindi delegation and seeing the project get underway soon.

Westpac PNG has announced a significant enhancement to its Bonus Saver Account with a new, market-leading interest rate of 4.25% per annum—rewarding customers for their commitment to saving and helping them grow their money faster. The Bonus Saver Account is designed to encourage consistent saving by offering a high bonus interest rate each month customers grow their balance, making it one of the most competitive savings products available in Papua New Guinea today. For balances above K1,000 (approximately US $238 at the current exchange), Westpac’s Bonus Saver Account will also offer zero dormancy fees. Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the improved rate demonstrates Westpac’s ongoing commitment to supporting customers’ financial wellbeing. “We know how important it is for our customers to make the most of their savings, especially in today’s challenging economic environment. With the new 4.25% interest rate, our Bonus Saver Account gives Papua New Guineans a simple and rewarding way to grow their savings—whether it’s for school fees, a future home or financial security—because every kina saved today grows your tomorrow.” The Bonus Saver Account offers customers the flexibility of accessing their funds when needed, while still encouraging good savings habits through monthly bonus interest for account growth. Customers have the added security of full digital access to their accounts via Westpac’s Online Banking and Mobile Banking App. Westpac PNG continues to invest in delivering banking solutions that help customers achieve their financial goals—from everyday banking to savings and investment opportunities. For more information, visit https://www.westpac.com.pg/ New and existing Westpac customers can open a Bonus Saver Account today by visiting their nearest Westpac branch or calling 322 0888 for more information.

The Treasurer of the Central Bougainville Tourism Association (CBTA), Delwin Ketsian, said the 2025 Tama Festival has the potential to become a major economic driver for Bougainville. “We see the Tama Festival not only as a cultural celebration but as an economic driver for Bougainville tourism. With more partnerships and planning, this festival will grow even stronger in the years to come,” Ketsian said. Held over two days from 21–22 August at Independence Oval in Arawa, the festival drew more than 3,000 attendees, including visitors from South and Central Bougainville as well as a small number of international tourists. This level of participation reflected the festival’s growing role in boosting the local economy, with cultural tourism, small business activities, and market sales contributing directly to community livelihoods. Festival highlights included the famous Singsing Kaur competition, panpipe ensembles, the showcasing of the traditional delicacy Tama, and displays of arts and crafts. Youth groups brought innovation to the program by blending panpipe harmonies with modern instruments, while women’s groups led chant performances, bilum weaving, and food stalls, which showed how cultural activities are also tied to enterprise and income generation. The presence of the Police Minister and Regional Member for Bougainville, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, who is also Patron of CBTA, underscored the festival’s national significance. In closing the event, he emphasized culture as a foundation for unity and future growth. “The Tama Festival reminds us that our strength as one people lies in our culture and unity. This event shows the world that our traditions remain the foundation of our identity and our journey together as one people,” Tsiamalili said. The festival’s success was further attributed to strong corporate and institutional support. Sponsors included Vodafone PNG, Fincorp, Melanesian Luxury Yacht Services, Nikana Finance Limited, SP Brewery, Silent World Bulk Fuel, Bougainville Arts Culture Tourism Authority (BACTA), and the Office of the Regional Member. Their contributions highlighted the role of private sector partnerships in enabling large-scale events that stimulate tourism and commerce. Interim CEO of BACTA, Lorena Ritsi, described the festival as a vital cultural and economic platform. “The Tama Festival is a celebration of talent, creativity, and community. It creates a space where our artistic skills, especially in culinary arts, are showcased and tested, reminding us of the richness of our culture,” she said. Ritsi added that BACTA’s mission is to promote, preserve, and regulate cultural and tourism products in the region, putting events like the Tama Festival as key drivers of the tourism economy while keeping traditions alive. Organizers also identified areas to strengthen the festival’s business and tourism value in the future, including earlier planning, wider youth and schools engagement, and stronger sponsor partnerships. The committee plans to expand the program to involve more regional groups and step up international promotion, with the goal of positioning the Tama Festival as a premier cultural tourism attraction for Bougainville. By merging cultural preservation with tourism development, the Tama Festival demonstrates how heritage can drive business, create opportunities for small enterprises, and contribute to the region’s long-term economic development.

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 Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG Ports) is proud to announce that both the Port of Lae and the Port of Port Moresby have improved their global rankings in the 2025 World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), outperforming several major ports in nearby developed economies (e.g., Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Botany (Sydney), Auckland, Napier, and Otago). According to the report, Lae Port has advanced from 311th position in 2023 to 264th in 2025, while Port Moresby has improved from 280th to 248th. These gains reflect a continued upward trajectory in operational performance and port efficiency. “This improvement demonstrates the impact of strategic investment in equipment, systems, and operational efficiency,” said George Gware, COO of ICTSI South Pacific – port operator of Papua New Guinea’s two international container terminals (Motukea International Terminal in Port Moresby and South Pacific International Container Terminal in Lae). “Our recent investments in new gantry cranes, yard equipment, and advanced port management systems have contributed to faster vessel turnaround times and improved cargo handling efficiency," Gware said. The Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), jointly compiled by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, evaluates over 400 ports worldwide based on key operational indicators such as vessel time in port and container throughput. The CPPI has become a widely referenced benchmark for measuring global container port performance since its introduction in 2020. The CPPI measures how efficiently container ports move vessels through their terminals, with shorter turnaround times translating into cost savings, improved reliability, and reduced carbon emissions. The 2025 report emphasizes that high-performing ports contribute significantly to global supply chain resilience and economic competitiveness. “This recognition by the World Bank is not just about rankings—it’s about the hard work of our people and partners who ensure PNG’s ports remain vital arteries for trade, growth, and national development,” added Neil Papenfus, CEO PNG Ports. PNG Ports operates 15 ports across Papua New Guinea, with Lae, Port Moresby, and Kimbe generating profits that support 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) ports — essential gateways that connect remote communities and sustain regional economies. Despite increasing competition from private ports that do not contribute to the national network’s upkeep, PNG Ports continues to invest in its entire port network to serve both commercial and community interests. PNG Ports is a State-Owned Enterprise responsible for managing, operating, and maintaining Papua New Guinea’s network of 15 declared ports. The company is committed to ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations that support the nation’s economic growth and connectivity.

Ahead of the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum (PTF 2025) in Fiji, Papua New Guinea’s National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA) are positioning the country as a regional leader in value-added processing, sustainable trade, and blue economy development. The forum, scheduled for October 14–15 in Nadi, Fiji, will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and development partners under the theme “Pacific Tuna 2050: Resilience, Innovation, Equity, and Sustainable Trade for a Prosperous Future.” Papua New Guinea is expacted to play a prominent role at the event, with the NFA co-hosting the forum alongside Fiji’s Ministry of Fisheries. This year’s edition is expected to highlight opportunities for downstream processing, regional cooperation, and sustainable management of tuna resources, key priorities for PNG’s fisheries sector. NFA and SEZA Partnership Signals Strong State Collaboration The forum follows a significant partnership forged earlier in October, when SEZA came on board as a Platinum Sponsor for PTF 2025 with a K100,000 sponsorship, signaling stronger collaboration between key state agencies to support investment and industry growth. NFA Acting Managing Director Leban Gisawa said the partnership reflects the government’s broader push toward a whole-of-government approach to maximize the value of PNG’s tuna resources. “The National Fisheries Authority welcomes the support of the Special Economic Zones Authority as a Platinum Sponsor of the upcoming 9th Pacific Tuna Forum,” Gisawa said. “This signifies the importance of key agencies of State working together to achieve the Government’s objectives and contributing to the economic development of this great country.” Gisawa said the NFA has been implementing major structural and legislative reforms to strengthen the management of fisheries and promote value-adding within PNG. He emphasized that partnerships like the one with SEZA are critical for transforming PNG’s abundant marine resources into downstream processing opportunities that create jobs and revenue. “For PNG, it is clear that a whole-of-government approach is required to increase the retention of the value of our tuna catches,” he said. “The NFA looks forward to SEZA’s leadership in developing Special Economic Zones for the fisheries sector.” Expectations for the Pacific Tuna Forum The 9th Pacific Tuna Forum is expected to serve as a platform for regional collaboration and innovation in the tuna industry, with PNG aiming to position itself as the Pacific’s preferred tuna processing hub. Gisawa noted that the Pacific region, which supplies around 50 percent of the world’s tuna, continues to push for greater value retention within local economies. He said discussions at the forum would be vital in advancing this shared vision. He also pointed to the importance of international trade partnerships, particularly with the European Union (EU), which gives PNG’s tuna products quota-free and duty-free access under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). “In practice, our tuna processors compete with those in China, Ecuador, the Philippines, and Thailand,” he said. “We look forward to SEZA’s leadership in driving the tuna industry to achieve economies of scale and competitiveness in the global tuna market.” SEZA Eyes Onshore Processing and Job Creation From SEZA’s perspective, the forum offers a critical opportunity to advance discussions on onshore processing and industrial development in PNG’s fisheries sector. SEZA Board Chairman Dr. Lawrence Sause said the country has enormous potential that remains underutilized, noting that PNG accounts for about 18 percent of the world’s tuna catch and controls around 15 percent of the global tuna trade, valued between US$4 billion and US$5 billion. "Although PNG catches between 600,000–700,000 metric tons of fish every year, 80 percent leaves the country to be processed offshore,” Dr. Sause said. “It is ridiculous that we export 35,000 tons of canned tuna and import 40,000 tons. We are losing up to 100,000 jobs and over K4 billion in revenue by not processing all our fish in PNG.” He said SEZA will work closely with the NFA to reverse this trend by supporting the Domestication Policy and developing fisheries-focused Special Economic Zones. “We look forward to the NFA bringing forward and implementing the Domestication Policy so we can process 100 percent of our catch in PNG,” Dr. Sause said. For his part, SEZA Acting CEO Mr. Kikila Yawase reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to downstream processing and local value addition. “SEZA is proud to support the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum because of its focus on onshore processing and value-added strategies,” he said. “We look forward to partnering with the NFA to unlock the immense potential we have in the fisheries sector for downstream processing.” MGisawa said the NFA is optimistic that SEZA’s participation in the upcoming forum will help strengthen PNG’s leadership role in the Pacific’s fisheries sector. "The NFA values its partnership with SEZA and looks forward to SEZA’s participation at the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum, which will strengthen PNG’s position as the region’s preferred tuna processing hub,” he said.