Latest News

The Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), in collaboration with the Business Council of Papua New Guinea (BCPNG) and the PNG Diaspora Business Council of Australia (PNGDBCA), has welcomed a three-day visit to Papua New Guinea by a 35-member PNG-Australia Diaspora Trade and Investment Delegation. The delegation, comprising Papua New Guinean professionals, business owners, and industry leaders based in Australia, participated in a Trade and Investment Conference held from 1–3 February 2026 at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby. The delegation’s visit, facilitated by IPA and BCPNG, aimed to create structured pathways for trade, investment, and skills transfer between PNG and its diaspora community in Australia.  PNG Business Council President Susil Nelson in her keynote address highlighted the importance of the initiative as a platform for trade, skills transfer, and service development. She further described the initiative as an avenue for “brain gain,” noting the willingness of Papua New Guineans in Australia to contribute to the country’s growth across skills development, social services, health, education, business, and trade. The PNGDBCA, a first-of-its-kind diaspora-led business council, has been developed with the full backing of the BCPNG and aligns closely with bilateral Australia-PNG economic priorities. The visiting diaspora delegation represented five key business sectors including; Professional Services, Consulting & Education, Real Estate, Construction & Engineering, Manufacturing, Trade & Logistics, Retail, Fashion & Personal Care, Tourism, Media & Creative Industries.  The delegation’s engagement represents a unique strategic opportunity to advance two-way trade, investment, and sustainable economic development between both countries. This initiative, currently in its incubation phase under the BCPNG, also marks the first structured trade and investment mission led by the PNG diaspora which is strengthening diaspora-led economic cooperation and people-to-people trade. During their visit, delegates engaged directly with senior government representatives, private sector partners, and development institutions. The program included high-level interactions such as the Prime Minister’s Business Leaders Breakfast, official briefings with IPA, trade and investment roundtables with government and industry leaders, sector-specific business matching sessions, site visits, industry engagements, and formal networking events. Key government agencies participating in the program included the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), Australian High Commission to PNG, National Fisheries Authority, Trade Commission Office, PNG Business Council, and other regulatory bodies and dignitaries. The PNGDBCA delegation included a broad spectrum of Papua New Guinean-owned businesses in Australia which includes Franchise Ecosystem PNG, Allen Export Pty Ltd,Orange Guide, Impact Media PNG, Aviation Labour Group Talent, Winter Recruitment & Visa Services, Ruthz Management Solutions, Malana (Aust) Pty Ltd (Trustee for the Malana Family Trust),Amyblu Island Essential, Strategise PNG Ltd, Supa Insulation, Realcrete Australia Pty Ltd, Wantok Solution Pty Ltd, Ephana Enterprise Ltd, Wantok Travel Services, Maureen Sause (Certified Coach), Bopy’s Clothing & Beige Petroleum Ltd, 333 Solutions, BushMahn 4WD, Strike Group Australia Pty Ltd, JOJEM RESOURCES Pty Ltd, Midire & Co, Australia Sepik Foundation Limited, Onstech Pty Ltd, Kalakai Collective, AIATSIS, ASL Downunder, Yarap and  TommyWaiherTrans Co. IPA’s Director of Investor Servicing and Promotions Peter Daroa presented on the agency’s mandate, current investment trends, challenges, and growth opportunities. He highlighted key business environment issues including law and order, unemployment, inflation, and accessibility constraints. Daroa also emphasised that these challenges represent priority investment areas, particularly in security and surveillance solutions, labour mobility programs, and export expansion. Daroa noted that the PNG diaspora population in three key countries which are Australia (29,995 - by birth, 22,664 -by ancestry), the United Kingdom (1,536), and the United States (1,453) is estimated at approximately 33,000 people, a relatively small figure compared to other Pacific nations: Delegates shared insights on their businesses and experiences in engaging with PNG. The conference underscored the growing commitment of the PNG diaspora community in Australia to reconnect economically with their homeland, through both dialogue and through actionable partnerships, investment, and collaboration.

Tolu Minerals Ltd. says it has made steady operational and infrastructure progress at its Tolukuma Gold Mine in Papua New Guinea, outlining a pathway toward a major underground expansion and a production ramp-up beginning in 2027. In its quarterly report for the period ending 31 December 2025, the ASX-listed company said it is advancing a “mine-defining” project designed to support a long-term increase in mining capacity, with a target throughput of 500 tonnes per day. Initial production is forecast at about 20,000 to 25,000 ounces of gold per quarter once ramp-up begins in the first quarter of 2027. The expansion plan centres on the development of new underground infrastructure, including access tunnels, dewatering systems, underground exploration platforms and a long-term tailings solution using paste backfill. Phase one includes the construction of approximately 1.4 kilometres of tunnel, with the potential to double that length over time. Tolu said the project is intended to provide improved access to existing and future underground workings, support higher drilling intensity and deliver operational efficiencies through reduced pumping and ventilation requirements. Underground operations progressed during the quarter following the issuance of a Form 15 underground mining licence by Papua New Guinea’s Mineral Resources Authority. The company reported that initial development blasting has recommenced, mine dewatering has accelerated and critical services, including ventilation and power, are now operational. The full underground mining fleet is on site and ready for production activities. Exploration efforts during the period focused on near-mine targets to support early production and resource confidence. Tolu plans to expand its drilling fleet to eight rigs by June 2026, with accelerated drilling expected in the third quarter of 2026. The company said 13 kilometres of exploration access roads have been completed within Mining Lease 104. The planned underground incline is expected to provide access along the full two-kilometre strike length of the Tolukuma deposit at depths where strong gold and silver mineralisation has already been identified. The deposit remains open at depth, with northern resource areas at incline level yet to be drill tested. At the processing plant, refurbishment of key components including the SAG mill, Knelson concentrator and Acacia reactor is nearing completion. The elution circuit has been refurbished, while servicing of the conversion circuit is underway in preparation for a full plant restart. Tolu said it is close to appointing a preferred contractor for recommissioning. The company is also progressing plans for a hydroelectric power facility, with term sheets under negotiation and a power purchase agreement structure being refined. Construction is expected to begin shortly, with power delivery targeted for early 2027. In parallel, Tolu is developing a certified, in-house assay laboratory to improve turnaround times for grade control and reconciliation. The facility is expected to become operational in the third quarter of 2026. Managing director Chris Muller said the company had achieved “steady and tangible progress” during the quarter across mining, exploration and infrastructure. “The operational pathway ahead is well defined, priorities are aligned, and the team on site is fully focused on delivering a safe and reliable return to production,” Muller said in the report. He said the planned underground incline would unlock systematic access to the deposit and materially reduce future capital and geological risk while supporting long-term resource growth. While challenges remain, Muller said the company is well advanced along a clear and disciplined pathway toward restarting production at Tolukuma.

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

South Pacific International Academy (SPIA) is at the forefront of Papua New Guinea’s renewable energy transition, having installed a 130 kW solar mini-grid at its Port Moresby campus. The system, powered by Trinasolar Vertex S+ 445W modules and supported by 244 kWh of Sunsynk lithium batteries, produces approximately 89 MWh of clean electricity annually, enough to meet the school’s energy needs reliably and reduce dependence on diesel generators. The project was designed to balance efficiency with practical sustainability. “We conducted a detailed load analysis with PNG Solar Supply to ensure the system was correctly sized. An undersized system would require constant generator backup, while an oversized one would mean paying for unused capacity,” said Matt Allen, Chairman of the School Board. During peak demand, the system delivers 67 kW to immediate consumption while storing over 60 kW in batteries for night-time use, providing consistent power even during periods of high usage. The installation also illustrates the economic benefits of advanced solar technology. Following recent amendments to PNG’s rooftop solar policy, SPIA reports that its monthly electricity bill from PNG Power Ltd has fallen from K12,000 to under K2,000, with particularly sunny months seeing bills as low as K384. Blackouts across both the school and staff housing have been eliminated, while generator usage has dropped to roughly one hour per month. Currently, all solar power is self-consumed, as PNG Power does not yet provide a feed-in tariff for exporting excess electricity. Beyond operational savings, the mini-grid represents a broader educational and sustainability mission. “Our core values of faith, truth, and growth emphasise stewardship, integrity, and lifelong learning. By operating a 100% solar-powered, grid-independent campus, we model responsible environmental stewardship while demonstrating practical innovation and resilience,” Allen said. The mini-grid functions as a living classroom, giving students and the wider community hands-on exposure to renewable energy technologies. The site also serves as a model for national capacity-building initiatives. In 2025, the mini-grid was used for a JICA-conducted training programme for NEA inspectors, providing a practical environment to complement classroom instruction. It will again feature as the site visit for the upcoming “Capacity-Building Workshop for Institutions and Decision-Makers on Solar Energy Transition in PNG” from 17–19 February 2026. Staff and families residing on campus have experienced tangible improvements in quality of life. Stable electricity has safeguarded appliances and equipment previously damaged by brownouts, including air conditioners and water pumps. The project also enhanced campus safety, with solar-powered street lighting along the perimeter and a solar-powered electric fence protecting staff residences. SPIA plans to expand the solar array in line with campus growth. Phase 3 of the school, set to include new classrooms, offices, and an indoor dining facility, will be supported by an additional 50 kW of solar capacity. The project was funded through a zero-interest loan from a sister non-profit organisation, requiring no special licensing from NEA, as the installation is below 1 MW. NEA inspections and guidance ensured smooth implementation despite the regulator’s relatively young age and developing framework. The academy is exploring complementary renewable initiatives, including solar water heating and future EV charging infrastructure, although local serviceability remains a constraint. “We hope to be a model for others to follow,” Allen said. By combining operational savings, hands-on education, and community benefits, SPIA’s mini-grid demonstrates how high-performance, durable solar technology can support energy security, sustainability, and real-world learning in PNG—a model increasingly relevant as the country seeks resilient, low-carbon solutions for schools and institutions.

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

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

Air Niugini has signed a strategic technical training agreement with Singapore-based Institute of Technical Education Services on Feb. 3, strengthening workforce capability development as the national airline continues to modernise its operations. The agreement was signed during the Singapore Airshow, marking a key milestone in Air Niugini’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence, skills development and long-term sustainability. ITE Education Services, the international business arm of Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education, was established to share the country’s vocational education and training expertise globally. Under the agreement, ITEES will deliver specialised technical training programmes for Air Niugini, drawing on its extensive experience in aviation and technical education. The partnership may also include leadership and workforce planning programmes tailored to the airline’s operational needs. The agreement was signed by Air Niugini Officer in Charge Capt. Samiu Taufa and ITEES Chief Executive Officer Suresh Natarajan, and witnessed by Air Niugini Board Chairman Karl Yalo, underscoring a shared commitment to collaboration and skills development. Taufa said the partnership was particularly important as the airline introduces new-generation aircraft into its fleet. “This collaboration with ITEES represents a significant investment in our people and our future,” he said. “As we introduce new-generation aircraft such as the Airbus A220, it is critical that our technical staff are equipped with the right skills, knowledge and global best practices to support safe, reliable and efficient operations.” He added that partnerships of this nature are essential to the airline’s long-term sustainability and support its growth and transformation. Yalo welcomed the agreement, saying it aligns with Air Niugini’s broader strategic direction. “This partnership reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening governance, technical capability and leadership across the organisation,” he said. “By investing in high-quality training and development, we are ensuring that Air Niugini remains competitive, resilient and well positioned to meet future challenges in the aviation industry.” Natarajan said ITEES was pleased to support Air Niugini’s capability development journey. “We are delighted to partner with Air Niugini and to share Singapore’s vocational and technical training expertise with the airline,” he said. He also acknowledged Airbus for facilitating the partnership, which has enabled ITEES to extend its training and development programmes to support Air Niugini’s technical requirements.

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. 

Westpac is strengthening its customer-first approach through an expanded series of regional visits in 2026, underscoring its long-term commitment to supporting business growth, financial capability and economic resilience across Papua New Guinea. This month, Westpac’s relationship managers and members of the leadership team travelled within Port Moresby and to Wewak, Lae, Mt Hagen, Alotau, Kimbe, Kavieng, Tabubil and Kokopo, meeting business owners, community partners and industry leaders to better understand their priorities and the challenges they face operating in diverse local markets. Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the regional engagement programme reflects Westpac’s commitment to Yumi Grow Wantaim — working together with customers, communities and partners to drive shared progress. “Yumi Grow Wantaim is more than a tagline — it’s the foundation of how we operate,” Cairns said. “These visits help us hear directly from customers, understand the environment they operate in and ensure our financial solutions evolve with their needs. Our commitment is to grow alongside our customers and contribute to stronger, more inclusive economic outcomes across the country.” Head of Westpac Commercial & Corporate Banking Patrick Wright said the visits continue to deepen the bank’s understanding of local opportunities, sector trends and the challenges businesses face in 2026. “Our role goes beyond providing banking services. It’s about partnership — standing shoulder to shoulder with businesses and supporting their ambitions,” Wright said. “By meeting customers where they are, we can better tailor solutions that support long-term growth and stability. That’s the essence of Yumi Grow Wantaim.” With many businesses operating in geographically dispersed regions and navigating varying levels of connectivity, Westpac remains focused on closing gaps by delivering financial expertise directly on site and ensuring customers receive the support they need in their own communities. Westpac will continue the regional engagement programme throughout 2026, with additional visits planned for provincial centres and emerging commercial hubs. The programme is a core part of the bank’s commitment to helping communities and businesses grow — together.

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