Prime Minister James Marape has congratulated PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG Ports) for its remarkable performance in the 2025 World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), describing the achievement as a proud moment for Papua New Guinea and a strong indicator of the country’s growing efficiency, resilience, and competitiveness in international trade.
According to the World Bank’s CPPI report, the Port of Lae rose from 311th position in 2023 to 264th in 2025, while the Port of Port Moresby climbed from 280th to 248th. Both ports outperformed several major facilities across developed economies, including Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Botany (Sydney), Auckland, Napier, and Otago.
“These outstanding results are not just statistics; they reflect the steady progress of our nation in managing critical infrastructure, enhancing operational capacity, and building a modern, competitive economy,” Marape said.
He commended PNG Ports’ management, employees, and partners for their leadership and innovation in positioning the country’s ports among the best-performing in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Prime Minister said the improved rankings were the result of strategic investments and partnerships made in recent years, including the introduction of new equipment, advanced port management systems, and digital technologies designed to increase efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
“Through prudent investment and management, PNG is demonstrating that we can compete regionally and globally,” he said. “The operational success of our ports is central to our national vision under the Take Back PNG agenda — to build an economy that is efficient, transparent, and globally connected, creating opportunities for our people and businesses.”
Transforming PNG into a Trade-Driven Economy
Marape said Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary, celebrated last month, marked not only a national milestone but also a strategic reset toward the next 50 years of growth and prosperity.
“As we step into our next 50 years, our focus is clear — we are transforming from a resource-dependent economy into a diversified, trade-driven nation,” he said. “Our ports are the gateways to this transformation, enabling trade, supporting investors, and connecting Papua New Guinea with regional and global markets.”
He added that the Government would continue to support State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) such as PNG Ports in their efforts to modernise infrastructure, strengthen governance, and expand regional connectivity through smart investments and strong public–private partnerships.
“The success of PNG Ports demonstrates what good governance, commercial discipline, and patriotic leadership can achieve when aligned with national goals,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We will continue working with our development and investment partners across the Asia-Pacific to expand trade, grow exports, and position PNG as a regional hub for shipping and logistics.”
Inclusive Development and National Connectivity
The Prime Minister also praised PNG Ports’ ongoing commitment to maintaining operations across all 15 declared ports, including support for 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) Ports that connect rural and maritime communities.
“This inclusive approach ensures that the benefits of development reach all corners of our country,” he said. “Even as we pursue efficiency and profitability, we must never lose sight of our responsibility to serve every Papua New Guinean — from our remote islands to our industrial cities.”
Positioning PNG as a Regional Trade Hub
Marape reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to maintaining Papua New Guinea as a stable and attractive destination for investment, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. He emphasised that sustained economic growth depends on reliable infrastructure, consistent performance, and strategic focus across key sectors.
“Papua New Guinea’s improved global ranking in port performance is a reflection of our broader national progress,” Prime Minister Marape concluded. “We are open for business, ready for investment, and determined to ensure that every sector of our economy — from shipping to agriculture to digital trade — contributes to our shared prosperity.”
