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 - including 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.
