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Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed that Papua New Guinea’s flagship resource projects, Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu, remain top priorities for international investors following high-level engagements at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Speaking to the media after returning to Port Moresby, Marape said discussions with key project partners reaffirmed strong commitment to advancing both developments in 2026. “I made it absolutely clear – Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu must move forward. There will be no warehousing of licences,” he said. Marape confirmed meetings with senior executives from TotalEnergies and joint venture partners involved in Papua LNG, who assured the government that the project remains their leading priority. “Papua LNG remains 100 per cent a focus project. Our task now is to cross the remaining dots while preserving the project’s value and return for both investors and the people of Papua New Guinea,” he said. He said a state negotiating team is currently engaged in technical discussions overseas, with further engagement planned with international partners once alignment is reached. The prime minister said the government expects a definitive announcement on Papua LNG later this year, ideally before Papua New Guinea’s Independence Day on 16 September. “This is a project worth between US$13 billion and US$14 billion. It will be transformational for our economy,” he said. On the Wafi-Golpu copper-gold project, Marape confirmed meetings with Harmony Gold executives, who provided assurances that the project also remains a priority. A cabinet-appointed state peer review team has been established to address outstanding technical matters, after which the government will take a final position. “I want the country to know: once we issue approvals, these projects must move straight to development. That commitment has been agreed,” Marape said. He said both projects are central to unlocking billions of kina in economic activity, employment and downstream opportunities. “These projects are not just about mining and gas – they are about building our economy towards a K200 billion future,” he said.

Geopacific Resources Limited has reported a series of high-grade, near-surface gold intercepts from infill drilling at the Wayai Creek deposit, further strengthening confidence in the Mineral Resource at its 1.67-million-ounce Woodlark Gold Project in Papua New Guinea. The latest results, drawn from 24 reverse circulation (RC) drill holes, confirm the continuity of shallow, high-grade mineralisation within the main Wayai Creek lode, an area located south of the Woodlark King mining centre and close to planned infrastructure. Standout intercepts include 17 metres at 5.29 grams per tonne (g/t) of gold from 36 metres and 9 metres at 1.62 g/t from 56 metres in drill hole WCRC25006. Additional significant results were recorded in WDRC25008, which returned 5 metres at 4.15 g/t from 122 metres, and WERC25002, with 5 metres at 3.94 g/t from 30 metres. According to the company, the results further define a coherent zone of shallow, high-grade mineralisation and support improved confidence in the existing resource model. Most of the gold intercepts occur at depths of less than 100 metres below surface, enhancing the potential for near-term resource conversion. Geopacific chief executive officer James Fox said the drilling continued to demonstrate the scale of opportunity at Woodlark. “These results continue to improve our geological understanding of the prospective areas, and deliver high-grade intercepts that support the significant exploration and growth potential that remains at Woodlark," Fox said. "We have a clear pipeline of near-mine and regional exploration work to progress, with much of the drilling focused close to existing resources and planned infrastructure. This includes testing for potential extensions to known mineralisation under shallow cover, where there has been little recent exploration focus. Importantly, this work is being progressed in parallel with finalisation of the Woodlark DFS," he added. At Wayai Creek, drilling has outlined a northwest-trending corridor of mineralisation extending over about 550 metres of strike. The mineralisation comprises a series of sub-vertical shoots that remain open along strike and at depth. Resource infill and extension drilling is ongoing, with 10 RC holes and five diamond tails, totalling around 1,200 metres, scheduled for completion over the next four to five weeks. The data will be incorporated into a future Mineral Resource update. The new results also align with historic high-grade intercepts from the same zone, including 5 metres at 16.69 g/t, 4 metres at 6.60 g/t and 8 metres at 2.63 g/t, reinforcing the consistency of mineralisation at Wayai Creek. Elsewhere on the project, diamond drilling at the Little MacKenzie prospect has been completed. Assays have been received for four RC pre-collars, with results from a further 24 holes expected within the next six to eight weeks. The program tested a revised geological model designed to better understand the orientation and distribution of mineralised zones across the prospect. Drilling has also commenced at Busai Deeps, below the Busai gold deposit, the second largest at Woodlark. The five-hole diamond program is targeting down-dip extensions of the high-grade western lode immediately beneath the current pit design, with the aim of supporting future resource growth and mine plan optimisation. Geopacific said drilling at Wayai Creek and Busai is expected to continue for a further four to six weeks before rigs move back to the Kulumadau mining area to advance exploration at the Great Northern deposit and test regional targets including Kamwak, Ivanhoe East and Kulumadau South. The ongoing drilling campaign forms part of a broader strategy to extend mine life and unlock additional value at Woodlark while the company progresses towards completion of the project’s definitive feasibility study.

The Government has appointed Johnson Pundari as the new acting chief executive officer of the Konebada Petroleum Park Authority (KPPA), tasking him with reviewing the future use of key State-owned land earmarked for industrial development. The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, who is also the minister responsible for KPPA, welcomed the appointment and described Mr Pundari as a competent and seasoned executive capable of leading the authority through a critical transition period. Maru said the immediate priority for the acting CEO was to establish the exact extent of land held by KPPA and to present strategic options to the Government on its future use. “We cannot continue to sit on this land,” the minister said, adding that Pundari had been directed to provide clear recommendations on the way forward. The Konebada Petroleum Park was originally designated for downstream processing associated with liquefied natural gas projects. However, Maru said the Project Development Agreement for the PNG LNG project did not allow for a domestic market obligation, limiting the feasibility of such plans. He noted that while the Papua LNG project would include a five per cent domestic market obligation, its processing facilities would need to be located in Gulf Province, where the gas resources are situated. He also pointed to other gas developments in the province, including the Pasca A gas project, the Wildebeest development project and stranded field developments. “With all the gas reserves in the province into the future, Gulf rightly should have the processing plant. This will be a very important impact project for them,” Maru said. As a result, he said the Government was considering alternative uses for the KPPA land, including the development of a major industrial park for Port Moresby as a special economic zone, particularly targeting the manufacturing sector. Such a development could support export processing and import replacement industries, supported by the site’s close proximity to the new wharf, the minister said. “These are some of the strategic options that the new acting CEO will look into,” Mr Maru added. “He has been tasked to submit his plans to the Government within three months.” Pundari’s appointment comes as the Government seeks to accelerate industrial development and maximise the economic value of State assets amid growing regional competition for manufacturing and logistics investment.

The Sepik Development Project (SDP)’s approach to engagement with Sepik communities has been validated by the OECD’s Australian National Contact Point (AusNCP), following an exhaustive examination of the Project’s activities. A Follow-Up Statement issued by the AusNCP, reporting on the SDP’s compliance with recommendations issued in 2023, confirmed that the Independent Examiner is satisfied the project has delivered on the recommendations. The recommendations related to compliance with OECD guidelines for obtaining the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of communities and other stakeholders, following a complaint lodged by Project Sepik and the Jubilee Australia Research Centre. Phil McCormack of the Sepik Development Project welcomed the findings, saying the outcome highlighted the Project’s ongoing commitment to building strong relationships and securing FPIC from Sepik communities. “We are pleased the AusNCP has confirmed our compliance with OECD guidelines in relation to stakeholder engagement on this project,” he said. “This outcome represents independent recognition of our commitment to transparency and collaboration with Sepik communities. “We look forward to continuing our proactive and transparent engagement to ensure local communities not only fully consent to the project, but can also be active participants in the way the project develops, and in the generation of future benefits for Sepik communities and Papua New Guinea.” Mr McCormack also thanked the AusNCP for its thorough consideration of the issue. “We appreciate its rigorous review process and constructive approach to addressing complex issues,” he said. Last month, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) granted six environmental permits for the Project, following a comprehensive assessment process. The permits cover the Frieda River Copper-Gold Project, Sepik Power Grid Project, Frieda River Hydroelectric Project, Sepik Infrastructure Project Road, Green River Airport, and Vanimo Ocean Port. The Sepik Development Project represents one of the most significant investments in Papua New Guinea. It is expected to unlock long-term economic value, deliver sustainable infrastructure, and empower local communities through genuine partnerships with landowners.

Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru says the proposed acquisition of State equity in Ramu Agri Industries (RAI) will be the most significant agriculture deal in Papua New Guinea’s 51-year history. “This is transformational — this investment will go beyond this generation,” Maru said. The minister made the remarks during a dinner meeting on 28 January with the board and management of New Britain Palm Oil Ltd. and the group managing director of its parent company, SD Guthrie, in Port Moresby. The meeting followed discussions held during Maru’s recent visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where key aspects of the proposed partnership were discussed. Maru said the Marape-Rosso government is serious about its proposed partnership with SD Guthrie to drive agricultural development in PNG. “The State’s interest to buy into RAI is for us to use the company as a vehicle to expand to other parts of the country,” he said. “We (the Government) admit that we are not good at running businesses. We have learnt from the past.” Maru cited the example of PNG Banking Corporation, saying, “The PNGBC was a loss-making bank corporation when the Government ran it. When the bank was partially privatized (with the Government still remaining a shareholder), the services improved, it is recording profits in millions and getting dividends we never saw before, and it is now the leading bank in the entire South Pacific.” “With this experience, we want to let the private sector, in this case SD Guthrie, to run the business,” he said. “The Government is only looking at a small stake in RAI to show our commitment so we can help the company mitigate the risks and expand the business.” Maru said the government wants the business to grow beyond RAI and New Britain Palm Oil and expand into the Sepik Plains, Central Province and the Western Highlands, where there is significant undeveloped land. The minister confirmed the State will use Kumul Agriculture Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Kumul Consolidated Holdings Ltd., as its investment vehicle and is prepared to commit K100 million as equity in the proposed joint venture. He said it was agreed that a non-disclosure agreement would be signed next month to allow for independent valuations, ahead of reaching a project development agreement by the end of April for the purchase of shares in RAI by the State and other PNG shareholders. “In the Agreement, the Government will commit to providing essential enabling infrastructure and an environment that is conducive for business — this includes services like power, sealed roads and bridges, strong police and security provision, and providing State land and mobilising customary land for large scale agriculture development,” Maru said. He said the agreement would also capture that all expansion projects under the partnership would operate as separate business entities so they could be developed in special economic zones, benefiting from incentives including tax holidays and duty-free treatment for construction materials and equipment. SD Guthrie Group Managing Director Mohd Haris Mohd Arshad said the company was keen to partner with the State through Kumul Consolidated Holdings Ltd., Kumul Agriculture Ltd. and the Livestock Development Corporation to develop the 20,000-hectare Urimo cattle project. “PNG should be growing and exporting cattle. K240 million annual beef imports (mainly from Australia) is crazy,” Arshad said. “The quality of beef produced in PNG is amazing.” He said SD Guthrie could work with the government to develop the cattle industry, drawing on its experience operating Numundo Beef in West New Britain and Ramu Beef in Madang. “SD Guthrie has been in business for over 200 years and what we need now is growth,” Arshad said. “We don’t see growth in Malaysia and there is no potential growth for us in Indonesia. We see a pathway to grow in PNG in partnership with the Government, starting with the State’s acquisition of shares in RAI and we can build from there.” Arshad said that if the government was serious about partnering with RAI to develop the Sepik Plains, it should immediately construct an international wharf in Wewak and upgrade and seal the roads from Kusaun to Urimo to enable work to begin on the cattle project. Also present at the meeting were the secretary for the Department of International Trade and Investment, the managing director of Kumul Consolidated Holdings Ltd., the chairman and acting CEO of the Special Economic Zone Authority, the managing director of the Livestock Development Corporation, and the acting CEO of the Securities Commission of Papua New Guinea. They pledged their support for the proposed development as part of the Marape-Rosso government’s reset agenda.

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

Air Niugini’s new Airbus A220-300 aircraft are reshaping domestic air travel across Papua New Guinea, delivering improved reliability, comfort and capacity since entering service late last year. The national carrier introduced its first A220-300 in September, followed by two additional aircraft in December. The three next-generation jets have quickly become popular with passengers and are playing a key role in strengthening connectivity across the country. As holidaymakers, workers and students return to their homes and places of work and study at the start of the year, the A220 fleet has helped reunite families and communities, transporting passengers safely and comfortably across the domestic network. Air Niugini has branded the aircraft The People’s Balus, reflecting its role in linking communities nationwide. Configured with 138 seats, the A220-300 provides increased capacity compared with the Fokker aircraft it complements and is progressively replacing. Passengers benefit from a wider cabin, larger windows, increased overhead luggage space and more comfortable seating, including Business Class, delivering a noticeably enhanced travel experience. The A220s are currently operating on key domestic routes serving Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Kavieng, Manus Island and Alotau. These services connect major population centres and regional hubs, supporting economic activity, access to education and health services, and vital social ties. In addition to passenger comfort, the aircraft offers significant operational advantages. Its advanced technology and fuel efficiency support improved schedule reliability and performance, particularly on longer domestic sectors. The aircraft’s quieter operation and modern systems also align with Air Niugini’s investment in a safer, greener and more sustainable fleet. As runway upgrade works progress at airports around the country, Air Niugini plans to deploy the A220 on additional domestic routes, including Mount Hagen, Wewak and Kimbe, further expanding access and connectivity. The A220-300 is also set to operate selected regional services, including routes to Australia, once regulatory requirements are completed. The aircraft will initially service Cairns before debuting on the Port Moresby–Sydney route on March 29. Services to Sydney currently operate twice a week. With the introduction of the A220, frequencies will increase to three flights a week from March 29. Departures from Port Moresby will operate on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, with return services the following mornings on Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays. The introduction of the A220 fleet marks a significant milestone for Air Niugini and Papua New Guinea, ushering in a new era of improved comfort, capacity and reliability for travellers both domestically and across the region.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) marks half a century of independence this year, a journey defined by cultural resilience, political milestones, and the transformation of its resource-driven economy.  From shedding colonial rule in 1975 to emerging as a strategic player in regional diplomacy and climate advocacy, PNG’s story is a tapestry of triumphs and challenges that continue to shape its future. Let’s look at these national milestones set in the last five decades:  From Independence to Global Stage  On 15 September 1975, PNG adopted a home-grown Constitution that enshrined democratic governance, human rights, and cultural preservation.   A day later, on 16 September, the nation won full sovereignty from Australia under the leadership of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, its first Prime Minister and a unifying figure among more than 800 language groups.  In 1977, PNG held its inaugural national elections, empowering citizens to shape their own Parliament despite the logistical hurdles of rugged terrain and dispersed communities.   Mere weeks after independence, on 10 October 1975, PNG joined the United Nations (UN), launching its diplomatic presence and amplifying Pacific voices on development, peace, and environmental protection.  Resource Revolution: Mining, Oil & Gas  The late 1970s and 1980s heralded PNG’s first resource boom. The Bougainville mine, operational since 1972, became the country’s leading copper and gold producer, though landowner disputes and civil unrest led to its 1989 closure. In 1984, the Ok Tedi mine opened in Western Province, diversifying PNG’s mineral portfolio.  The 1990s saw a pivot to petroleum with the Kutubu and Gobe oil fields, while the turn of the century brought financial sector reforms: the privatization of Papua New Guinea Banking Corporation and the rise of Bank South Pacific bolstered economic stability.   The 2004 Napa Napa oil refinery near Port Moresby marked PNG’s entry into downstream processing, and initial moves to privatize PNG Power Limited aimed to modernize the national grid.  The PNG LNG Project in 2014 was a watershed moment—ExxonMobil’s multi-billion-dollar investment turned the nation into a major gas exporter.   More recently, the Porgera gold mine reopened in 2023 with majority local ownership, and the Wafi-Golpu copper-gold venture promises another long-term revenue stream.  Governance, Peace, and Social Progress  The late 1980s brought turbulence: the Bougainville Crisis erupted over demands for autonomy and fair resource sharing. Its resolution—the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 2001—granted greater self-rule and set the stage for a future referendum, showcasing PNG’s capacity for peaceful reconciliation.  In the 2000s and 2010s, PNG strengthened its institutions. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) was established to tackle graft, while Prime Minister James Marape’s decentralization efforts increased resource allocation to districts and provinces.  Parallel investments in human development soared. Free education policies rolled out in the 2010s improved literacy rates, while expanded healthcare programs bolstered maternal and rural health. These initiatives underscored PNG’s commitment to lifting every citizen.  Climate Leadership and Cultural Renaissance  Facing the frontlines of climate change, PNG has championed regional sustainability. In the 2020s, it emerged as a vocal advocate for biodiversity and green development.   A historic visit by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2025 will celebrate PNG’s environmental stewardship and highlight links between conservation and community well-being.  Simultaneously, tourism and cultural identity have taken center stage. Under the Golden Jubilee theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Tourism – Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the Bird of Paradise and Southern Cross adorn the anniversary logo.   Investments in eco-tourism and cultural festivals not only fuel local economies but also honor PNG’s ancestral heritage.   Business Evolution: Diversification Beyond Extractives  While mining and energy have historically driven PNG’s growth, recent decades have spurred diversification:  - Special Economic Zones (SEZ) policy to attract manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, and tech investments    - The Bank of Papua New Guinea’s Green Finance Centre, funding renewable energy and sustainable agriculture projects    - Regional expansion of conglomerates like Steamships Trading Company and Remington Group into Lae and Mount Hagen    These moves aim to reduce reliance on extractives, create jobs, and foster resilience against commodity price swings.  Regional Diplomacy and Golden Jubilee Celebrations  Earlier this year, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit underscored PNG’s pivotal role in Pacific unity. Strategic partnerships with Australia, China, Japan, and India have deepened through trade agreements, infrastructure projects, and development programs.  The Golden Jubilee itself—branded “Stronger Together, Growing the Future”—features cultural festivals, youth-led innovation challenges, a national prayer day, and global investment forums. Inspired by the biblical Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10), events emphasize renewal, justice, and collective prosperity.  Charting the Next Fifty Years  As PNG commemorates 50 years of independence, its journey offers both inspiration and a roadmap. Democratic institutions have matured, peace has healed old wounds, and economic progress has lifted communities—yet challenges remain. Environmental sustainability, equitable resource sharing, and diversified growth will define PNG’s path forward.  Papua New Guinea at fifty stands as a testament to unity in diversity, a nation forging its destiny with cultural pride and entrepreneurial spirit. The coming decades beckon with promise: a resilient PNG, stronger together, ready to grow its future.  We in PNG Business News congratulate the nation on this landmark anniversary. We are thankful to be a small part of chronicling the country’s strides since 2019, and we join all Papua New Guineans in declaring liberty throughout the land and moving forward with hope. We pray for wisdom, unity, and courage for all as we enter the next 50 years.   Mekim yumi stap wantaim. Mekim yumi go het wantaim -- Let's be together. Let's move forward together. 

Nambawan Super Limited has supported teachers during the Teaching Service Commission’s Resumption of Duty Programme, joining about 3,000 educators at Lae Secondary School in Morobe province. The event marked Nambawan Super’s first member engagement activity for 2026 and reflected the fund’s commitment to delivering superannuation education and services directly to members, particularly teachers, ahead of the new school year. The fund said teachers often face challenges in managing superannuation matters due to heavy workloads and postings in rural and remote communities, limiting their access to financial services. During the programme, Nambawan Super’s Chief Member Services Officer, George Panao, encouraged teachers to take an active role in managing their superannuation by updating beneficiary details and personal information. He highlighted the range of digital services available to members, including the Online Member Portal, mobile app, SMS balance check service and the free call centre service on 180 1599, as well as email support via CallCentre@nambawansuper.com.pg. These services are designed to improve access and support, enabling members to make informed decisions toward a secure and comfortable retirement. Following the resumption programme, Nambawan Super set up a general member enquiry booth to assist teachers with updating their details and addressing superannuation-related queries before they returned to their schools and respective postings. Although unable to attend the event, Nambawan Super Chief Executive Officer Lachlan Baird acknowledged the critical role teachers play nationwide. “Teachers play a central role in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future human resources and often have limited time to focus on their own financial and retirement planning,” Baird said. “Through our partnership with the Teaching Service Commission, Nambawan Super can engage directly with teachers at key events, ensuring they are informed and supported.” Baird also congratulated Maini Ugaia on his recent appointment as acting chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, acknowledging his contribution through the Nambawan Super Membership Committee in representing teachers and members nationwide. Building on the success of its 2025 member engagement activities, Nambawan Super said it will continue rolling out member engagement and education initiatives through its Financial Literacy Programme in 2026.

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.