Prime Minister James Marape has hailed the early success of New Porgera Ltd (NPL), calling it a model for responsible, equitable and inclusive resource development in Papua New Guinea.
Speaking in Port Moresby following the release of NPL’s first-quarter report for 2025, Marape commended the gold producer for exceeding operational targets and making strong economic contributions in its first few months of operation.
The company poured 84,800 ounces of gold and declared a USD80 million dividend, while contributing USD48.9 million in corporate tax.
Marape also attributed the strong performance to the company’s commitment to overcoming logistical and infrastructure challenges, including the completion of the Mulitaka Bypass Road—a critical connection to the mine.
He framed the mine’s revival as symbolic of PNG’s growing control over its natural resources.
“I commend NPL and our partners at Barrick for demonstrating that this new model — 51% PNG-owned, including 15% for landowners — is not only possible but is already producing results,” said Marape.
“This is not just a mine reopening — it is a symbol of PNG’s sovereignty over its resources, negotiated in the 50th year of our Independence, and delivering real dividends for our people.”
Marape also credited Barrick President and CEO Mark Bristow for his “leadership and vision” in supporting a deal that gives PNG majority ownership. “Mr Bristow is a true global citizen. He understood our desire for equitable ownership and supported our push for a deal where both PNG and our investment partners win,” Marape said.
New Porgera Ltd, which operates the Porgera Gold Mine, is jointly owned by Papua New Guinea stakeholders and Barrick Niugini Limited (BNL). Specifically, PNG stakeholders, including Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, the Enga Provincial Government, and local landowners, hold a 51% ownership, while BNL, a joint venture between Barrick Gold and Zijin Mining, holds the remaining 49%.
The Prime Minister highlighted employment gains from the project, with 2,811 people employed—97% of whom are Papua New Guinean nationals—alongside 43 industrial trainees.
“This shows what is possible when Papua New Guineans have real equity and strong management,” he said.
According to Marape, New Porgera’s early achievements validate his government’s broader resource policy reforms. He noted that Papua New Guinea has recorded average GDP growth of more than 4% over the past four years, underpinned by policy reforms and growth in agriculture and renewable resources.
“New Porgera Ltd is proof that responsible investment, national ownership and strong leadership can coexist and thrive. It’s a shining example of what a reformed resource sector can look like when PNG takes charge of its destiny.”
Despite the success, Marape flagged persistent law and order issues within the mining tenement, including more than 33,000 unauthorised intrusions, 11 armed robberies and the shooting of an NPL employee.
“These law-and-order issues are unacceptable,” he said, adding that the government is reviewing proposals for a Security Tax Credit Scheme and a Highway Tax Credit Scheme to support community and operational safety.
Marape urged all stakeholders—particularly the Enga Provincial Government and landowner groups—to work with Mining Minister Rainbo Paita to finalise the Community Development Agreement (CDA).
“Only once the CDA is concluded will the equity benefits be transferred to the province and landowners. Until then, the funds will remain in escrow for accountability and transparency.”
He also called for support from the energy sector to address emerging power supply challenges due to declining gas reserves at Santos-Hides.
