Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed that Papua New Guinea will host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in 2033, marking the country’s second time hosting the prestigious regional forum following APEC 2018.
Speaking from Dubai, Prime Minister Marape said the confirmation provides PNG with seven years of preparation and described the opportunity as a defining moment to showcase a stronger, more mature, and competitive nation to the global community.
“Papua New Guinea has once again been entrusted with hosting APEC, fifteen years after we successfully hosted APEC 2018,” he said. “This time, we want APEC 2033 to be bigger, better, and more reflective of a nation that has matured economically, fiscally, and democratically.”
The Prime Minister said the government formally expressed interest in hosting APEC again, building on the foundations laid in 2018 and positioning the country to present a compelling national story ahead of its 60th Independence Anniversary in 2035.
His engagements in Dubai form part of broader efforts to strengthen PNG’s global economic and diplomatic connectivity ahead of APEC 2033, including the establishment of PNG’s Ambassador to Dubai, Frank Assi, and the mobilisation of new trade linkages between the Middle East, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific.
“Papua New Guinea occupies a unique strategic position at the confluence of the Pacific Island countries, ASEAN, and APEC. We intend to link the Middle East with the Far East through our diplomatic presence in Dubai, alongside missions in Israel and Europe, opening markets, financing opportunities, and trade pathways for our producers,” he said.
Stronger Economy, Balanced Budget, Debt Repayment
Prime Minister Marape said APEC 2033 is expected to coincide with significant national milestones, including full repayment of PNG’s sovereign debt and achievement of major economic targets.
“By 2033, our economy will be much stronger. We expect to have passed our K200 billion economy target, fully repaid our sovereign debts, and established ourselves as a reliable trading partner in a robust free-market economy and solid democracy,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that the government is on track to deliver a balanced budget next year, following consistent fiscal consolidation, reduced deficits, and steady economic growth averaging around four percent in recent years.
“This is not coincidence. It is discipline. If we stay the course, APEC 2033 will be held at a time when PNG can confidently tell the world that we are stable, reliable, open for business, and ready to trade,” he said.
Early Preparations to Begin in 2026
Prime Minister Marape announced the establishment of a national APEC 2033 preparation committee this year, stressing that early planning is essential for a successful event.
“Six to seven years is not a long time for an event of this magnitude. Preparation is not just about infrastructure; it is about city planning, safety, transport systems, airports, hospitality, and how we present ourselves as a nation,” he said.
Planning will align with broader national initiatives, including urban renewal, airport expansion, public safety improvements, and lifestyle adjustments to support sustained international engagement.
Jacksons Airport, Aviation Links, and Regional Hosting Options
The Prime Minister confirmed that expansion of Jacksons International Airport will be central to APEC preparations, alongside consideration of hosting selected events outside Port Moresby.
“Opening direct links to global hubs such as Dubai is part of opening our economy and positioning PNG as a serious trading nation,” he said.
“We are also exploring spreading some APEC activities to centres such as Lae, Kokopo, Madang, Alotau, Goroka, Mt Hagen, Kimbe, and Manus, allowing more Papua New Guineans to participate and benefit.”
Showcasing PNG’s Maturity and Investment Story
APEC 2033 will provide a platform to present PNG as a mature exporting nation, supplying global markets with rare earth minerals, oil and gas, agricultural products, and fisheries amid rising global demand.
“By then, projects such as Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu will be well established, other mining operations will be running, and we will be more mature as an exporter and trading nation,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He noted engagement with potential partners from the UAE, which has global expertise in airports, ports, and logistics, including through public-private partnerships.
“We are exploring partnerships to support airport upgrades, seaport hub development, and trade-enabling infrastructure to strengthen our role in global commerce,” he said.
A National Story to the World
Prime Minister Marape said APEC 2033 will allow PNG to tell a powerful national story of a country that has stabilized, reformed, and emerged stronger.
“Few nations have maintained democracy for over fifty years while undertaking deep economic reform. As we prepare for APEC 2033, we do so with confidence, discipline, and a clear vision — to present PNG as a modern, prosperous, and globally connected trading nation,” he said.
