Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has emphasised that the new casino operations in Port Moresby will be strictly regulated to benefit Papua New Guinea’s economy while safeguarding the welfare of its citizens.
Addressing concerns over the recently launched Paga Hill Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Satellite Casino, Prime Minister Marape clarified that this casino will cater exclusively to “high rollers,” including expatriates, tourists, and high-earning Papua New Guineans.
“Similar to Singapore’s casino model, where locals are protected by specific regulations, we will ensure that only Papua New Guineans with an annual disposable income above K200,000 will be eligible to participate. Entry will require identification and membership,” said Prime Minister Marape.
He further explained that these measures align with recent adjustments to the minimum bet on pokies, increased to K100, to discourage participation by lower-income earners. He stressed that these changes are designed to curb overseas gambling expenditures by affluent Papua New Guineans, who currently travel to destinations such as Cairns, Brisbane, Singapore, and Manila for casino experiences.
“Our primary focus is on attracting international visitors and residents. We’re observing a growing number of Asian visitors for whom gambling is a popular recreational activity. This project is tailored to accommodate these gambling tourists and other international patrons. While there are concerns about unregulated casino-like gambling occurring in some private settings, this licensed casino can serve as a legitimate venue,” he added.
Highlighting the broader economic benefits, Prime Minister Marape underscored the contributions of gaming operations to community funds through the National Gaming Control Board. He stated that the licensed casino will follow this model, channeling a portion of revenue into programmes that benefit the community.
The Paga Hill SEZ project, which features hotels, residences, and commercial centers, is a transitional development poised for long-term expansion pending compliance with regulatory standards. The Prime Minister also announced a priority hiring initiative for local Motu-Koitabuans within the SEZ development.
“While I personally do not advocate for gambling, it’s undeniable that we have expatriates and others among us who participate in such activities. Licensed and regulated casinos offer an avenue for the State to collect taxes, retain spending in-country, create employment opportunities, and contribute to our economy,” said Prime Minister Marape.
“We will trial run this Satellite Casino, and another on a floating ship, which will both be reviewed over time.”
Reflecting on the history of gaming in Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Marape noted that similar concerns were voiced when pokies were first introduced, yet they have become a regulated part of the country’s landscape for over 30 years. He assured citizens that these casino projects would be introduced as trial initiatives, subject to rigorous oversight to prevent adverse impacts on everyday Papua New Guineans.
Prime Minister Marape concluded, “This SEZ project has been many years in the making. We are committed to ensuring its development aligns with our standards and delivers economic benefits for Papua New Guinea.”
