Prime Minister James Marape said the government is pressing ahead with the Wafi-Golpu and Papua LNG projects while seeking to secure a larger share of economic benefits for Papua New Guinea, rejecting claims of delays.
Responding in parliament to Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jr, Marape said ongoing negotiations are aimed at improving returns for the state and landowners, targeting a total government take of about 55% within existing legal frameworks.
“Our government is not delaying these projects. Our policy direction is very clear — we are working to secure a fair share of benefits,” he said.
Marape stressed that the government is not pursuing additional concessions beyond what is предусмотрed under the Mining Act and Oil and Gas Act, but is asserting PNG’s sovereign rights under current laws.
Papua LNG awaits investor-led FID
On Papua LNG, Marape said the gas agreement signed in April 2019 remains in force, with the state having fulfilled its obligations.
“It is now up to the investors to progress the project to final investment decision,” he said, attributing delays primarily to investor-side processes such as financing and tendering.
He added that any request for incentives would be assessed against national interest. “This government will not give away free incentives. Any concession must deliver fair value to our country.”
Wafi-Golpu stake under review
For Wafi-Golpu, Marape said earlier arrangements would have limited PNG’s stake to about 20%, below the 30% permitted under law.
“I am here to improve returns for our landowners and our country. I will not sell my country too cheaply,” he said, signalling a tougher negotiating stance.
He added that the government has already allocated infrastructure and business development funding to prepare affected communities, despite the project not yet reaching FID.
Growth continues without major projects
Marape said PNG’s economy has expanded despite delays in the two projects, citing government revenue growth from 14 billion kina in 2018 to around 25 billion kina in 2025, and GDP rising from 79 billion kina to more than 130 billion kina over the same period.
He pointed to gains in agriculture and construction, as well as the restructuring of the Porgera Mine, as evidence of the government’s economic strategy.
“When we took a stand on Porgera, many said the country would fail. Today, internal revenue has significantly increased,” he said.
Balancing speed and value
Marape said the government remains committed to advancing both projects but will not rush agreements that could undermine long-term national benefits.
“These projects take time to reach FID, but it is better to secure a fair deal than accept arrangements that do not benefit our people,” he said, urging investors to meet obligations within existing licence timelines.
He added that the government would continue negotiating in good faith while prioritising benefits for landowners and future generations.
