By Robina Hapo
For more than two decades, Golden Shipping has quietly but steadily positioned itself as a vital player in Papua New Guinea’s maritime logistics sector. Established in 2001 as the shipping division of a larger group, the company initially serviced its own logging camps. Today, under new leadership and with an ambitious forward strategy, Golden Shipping is stepping confidently into the wider industry as a provider of comprehensive marine transport and logistics solutions.
Golden Shipping currently operates a diverse fleet of six landing craft, ranging from 500 to 1,400 tonnes, supported by over ten sets of tugs and barges. This robust fleet allows the company to serve vast stretches of PNG waters—from Daru to Manus, Vanimo to Kiunga, and across the Milne Bay Province—ensuring that even the most remote coastal and river communities receive essential goods and services. The company also owns wharf facilities at Motukea, with additional operating points in Alotau, Kamusi, and other key maritime locations.
Having moved away from dependence on logging operations, Golden Shipping now focuses on offering a broad portfolio of marine services to the public and private sectors. These include vessel chartering, wharf handling and port services, bunkering operations, and marine repair services through its yard facilities. The shift reflects the company’s goal to contribute meaningfully to the growing needs of PNG’s industrial, commercial, and resource sectors.
Safety remains at the heart of the company’s operations. All vessels are locally registered and fully compliant with National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) requirements, with several also maintaining international class certifications. This commitment to safety and compliance is strengthened by the team’s deep expertise: many of Golden Shipping’s master mariners and engineers are former international seafarers with 30 to 40 years of experience. Their global exposure shapes the company’s vision to raise PNG’s marine standards by integrating efficiency-driven systems, best practices, and an improved operational culture.
As PNG experiences increasing activity in oil and gas, construction, and infrastructure development, Golden Shipping sees enormous potential to fill gaps in the coastal shipping network. While major players dominate containerised shipping, the company is strategically positioning itself in the bulk and project cargo segment, where specialised vessels and experience are critical.
Shipping Manager Edward Soo elaborates on the company's vision and what Golden Shipping wishes to contribute to the marine standards of Papua New Guinea. Mr Soo says, "With our past experiences overseas, we are trying to capitalise on bringing up the marine standard of PNG in line with the country’s development strategies and authorities."
The management believes this niche not only aligns with national development priorities but also leverages their long-standing expertise in project logistics across demanding international environments. While PNG’s maritime sector continues to face demanding challenges—from infrastructure limitations to logistical complexities—Golden Shipping remains optimistic. The company believes that with proper planning, investment, and collaboration with authorities and communities, PNG’s marine sector can evolve rapidly. Golden Shipping aims to play a key role in building stronger maritime infrastructure, enhancing capacity, and enabling smoother flow of goods that support economic growth.
As Golden Shipping enters a new chapter, its vision is clear: to provide dependable, compliant, and solution-driven marine logistics that support the country’s development. Backed by decades of experience and a renewed strategic direction, the company is charting a course not only to strengthen its own operations but also to elevate PNG’s coastal shipping landscape as a whole.
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