The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) recently hosted an Industrial Wind-Down Media Function, providing a pivotal networking platform for the resources sector.

Held in Port Moresby on March 22nd, the event attracted nearly 100 attendees, comprising members, stakeholders, and media representatives, facilitating strategic collaboration and offering insights into the industry's future.

Designed to foster dialogue among stakeholders and members within PNG's mineral, petroleum, and energy sectors, the event centered around the theme of "Connect, Communicate, and Collaborate."

Attendees engaged in hours of networking, participated in information sessions led by the PNG CORE Communications Committee, witnessed the official launch of PNG CORE’s 2024 Events Calendar, and celebrated member achievements.

Networking emerged as a central theme during the event, with a focus on its importance in identifying opportunities, sharing knowledge, accessing resources, and building brands.

The media's role in shaping public opinion and facilitating decision-making between the resource and government sectors was highlighted, underscoring the need for informative and independent reporting.

This event gave the media professionals the chance to network, plan coverage, uncover in-depth stories, and engage audiences with timely content.

In his opening address, PNG CORE Senior Vice President Richard Kassman emphasized the significance of exploring additional opportunities within the resources sector and its role in facilitating knowledge exchange and networking.

Mr. Kassman urged media professionals to prioritize factual reporting, without political bias and emphasized the importance of promoting educated discourse among Papua New Guineans.

“This is a very important topic, and I'm asking the media to look at the facts and allow our people and encourage the discourse in our people."

“We want to develop Papua New Guineas knowledge and not the knowledge you read about on social media. The people of Papua New Guinea rely on educated Papua New Guinean for information, insight and to have a discussion on their behalf,” Mr Kassman added.

Looking ahead, PNG CORE aims to continue its leadership in representing the mining and petroleum sectors, both locally and internationally.

As part of its mandate to promote PNG as an investment destination, the Chamber will collaborate with the media to amplify its efforts and enhance industry visibility.

The event served as a critical platform for discussing sector challenges and exploring PNG CORE's upcoming initiatives.

During the event, additional information about PNG CORE Council and its Committee was shared including the official announcement of PNG CORE 2024 Events Calendar, marking the Industrial Wind Down as their second significant event.

PNG CORE Council and its Committee play a vital role in the industry. Eight committees provide oversight to the councils’ strategic activities to address various agendas and issues that affect the industries, one of which is the Communications Committee, which was recently revived.

The committee was reactivated this year as part of the chairman’s effort to foster closer working relationship between industries and members and external stakeholders, especially with the Chamber’s media partners.

There are issues affecting the nation’s industries, by which the committee will be providing guidance to Chamber’s council on possible ways to address those issues through the media.

Building on PNG CORE’ collaboration in the pasts, they are looking forward to the media’s support to assist with this effort.

PNG CORE is also tasked to promote PNG as an investment destination. The Chamber will be doing so predominantly in international events, extending invites to the media to come along and be part of the campaign in a collaborative effort.

Additionally, the 2024 Calendar of Events reflects PNG CORE's commitment to hosting diverse forums and conferences, including international engagements aimed at showcasing PNG's potential as an investment hub.

The 2024 Calendar of Events are as follows:

• Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada from March 3-6 in Canada 
• Industrial Wind Down March 22 -  Port Moresby
• Security Summit April 17 Port Moresby
• Resource Week – Canconex, Career Fair, HR Forum- June 3-5 Port Moresby
• Annual General Meeting July - Port Moresby
• Emergency Response Challenge (ERC), September - Port Moresby
• PNG Resources and Energy Investment Conference, December 8-11 - Sydney, Australia

Looking ahead, PNG CORE aims to continue its leadership in representing the mining and petroleum sectors, both locally and internationally.

As part of its mandate to promote PNG as an investment destination, the Chamber will collaborate with the media to amplify its efforts and enhance industry visibility.

The successful event showcased PNG CORE’s lead in representation of the mining and petroleum sectors, including related industries in PNG, highlighting its innovation and collaboration in hosting both international and local conferences, workshops and seminars and producing publications relevant to the industry.

“The collaboration between the resources sector and the media is essential in driving national development and shaping the future of Papua New Guinea. Both entities play integral roles as nation builders, contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of the country,” Mr Kassman said.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today extended his gratitude towards Rio Tinto for its diligent efforts in conducting an effective legacy impact assessment for the Panguna mine and its affected communities.

The meeting saw the attendance of Rio Tinto PNG Country Director Andrew Cooper, along with Deputy Country Director Cornelius Soagai.

Prime Minister Marape praised Rio Tinto’s remarkable progress in the mining sector since its return to Papua New Guinea, marking over three decades since its operations ceased at Panguna mine through Bougainville Copper Ltd (BCL). “It is a step in the right direction,” he remarked.

During the meeting, Mr. Cooper updated on the Panguna Mine Legacy Impact Assessment’s progress, initiated by an agreement between Rio Tinto and representatives of the Bougainville community members through the Human Rights Law Centre. This process began following several months of dialogue facilitated by the Australian Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) National Contact Point (AusNCP). The assessment aims to identify and understand the environmental and human rights impacts since the mine’s closure in 1989.

“The Legacy Impact Assessment for Panguna is progressing well, with a final public report expected later in the year,” Mr. Cooper stated. Tetra Tech Coffey Ltd, a global consulting firm, has been tasked with completing Phase 1 of the independent assessment.

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to securing greater benefits for PNG landowners from major resource projects, emphasising the importance of ensuring that the people of Bougainville receive fair resource benefits in line with their autonomy status. He assured full support for Rio Tinto’s efforts in the impact assessment, and the full transfer of BCL shares to the Bougainville Government and its people.

Additionally, Mr. Cooper briefed Prime Minister Marape on ongoing exploration activities by Rio Tinto in PNG, including in Manus.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape recently announced the Government’s determination to diversify Papua New Guinea’s fuel sources. This announcement came upon his return from a two-day visit to Singapore, where discussions were held with Puma Energies, the nation’s primary fuel supplier, and various other potential suppliers.

The Prime Minister announced that PetroChina, one of the largest petroleum companies in China, has shown has shown interest in coming to PNG for downstream, midstream and upstream in the oil and gas sector.

“We cannot continue to depend on one source of fuel for too long, as we have been doing with Puma Energies,” Prime Minister Marape stated. Emphasising the need for diversification, he recounted the “frank and open conversations” with Puma Energies in Singapore, which were chaired by Petroleum Minister Hon. Jimmy Maladina.

“Puma indicated that they do not want to move out of the country, and that what is affecting them is a foreign exchange and banking issue,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“We told them that they can continue to do business in PNG, however, we will look for alternative sources of fuel.”

Highlighting the Government’s proactive measures, Prime Minister Marape revealed plans to collaborate with national entities such as Kumul Petroleum Holdings Ltd and the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC). These partnerships aim to secure a stable fuel supply for the nation.

Prime Minister Marape noted the interest from other overseas companies in entering the PNG fuel market. This interest marks a significant step towards broadening the nation’s energy portfolio and ensuring long-term fuel security.

Prime Minister Marape emphasised the Government’s unwavering focus on fuel security as a cornerstone of national interest. “I want to assure people in the country that your government is not resting, but looking at other available options, to ensure that there is no fuel insecurity in our country,” he assured.

“The Government of Papua New Guinea remains committed to safeguarding the nation’s energy future through strategic diversification and international cooperation, ensuring a reliable and sustainable fuel supply for our people.”

Santos is proud to partner with Telikom PNG in developing an evolving telecommunications landscape in the LNG and Santos project facilities and communities through a 10-year partnership.

A Co-Location Agreement was signed between Telikom PNG CEO, Amos Tepi, and Santos Country Chair PNG, Leon Buskens this week in Port Moresby. This collaboration will be an enabler for Telikom to expand its Network into our upstream Field Sites by leveraging of existing Santos’s Telecommunications Fibre and Tower infrastructure. With reference to the Santos’ existing Service Level Agreements, both parties are expected to maintain the highest Standards of Service Delivery, Transparency and Accountability.

Through this arrangement, Telikom PNG will proceed with deployment of 4G LTE connectivity across Santos’ 14 communications sites and towers located at Kikori in Gulf province, Ridge and Moro in Kutubu, Southern Highlands Province and Hides, in Hela Province.

During the signing, Santos Country Chair, Leon Buskens said Santos is pleased to collaborate with Telikom PNG to venture into fibre infrastructure and 4G LTE to boost internet connectivity whilst driving innovation and economic growth at the Santos field operations and project impacted communities. This will not only provide higher internet speed, but also a more effective and consistent internet connection.

“We believe through this collaboration; we can level the playing field for business and individuals by bridging the digital gap and enabling access to reliable internet services. This can contribute towards improving education (accessing online materials), entrepreneurship (e.g. digital banking etc), and cooperation, consequently fulfilling the Santos value of building a better future for all.”

Buskens said this initiative is in line with Santos’ commitment to the PNG Government’s aspirations found in its National Content Policy framework by supporting telecommunications as a tool for the sustenance of local landowner businesses and further strengthen community connectivity.

Santos has since given Telikom PNG capacity on Santos’ PNG LNG dark fibre between Port Moresby and Kutubu and further on the company’s Tower Infrastructures at Ridge, Moro, Gobe and Hides and its power systems.

The 14 communications sites owned by Santos are located at Iagifu Ridge, Moro, Moran Peak, Well Pad E, Gobe, Kaiam, Mt Hee, Aiio MLV, Gobe Bush, Hides-Nogoli Camp, Kaiam Crossing, Kakatumai, Mubi, and Agogo Production Facility.

The agreement will allow Santos to, amongst others:

• grant Telikom the permission to use Santos’ sites for the purpose of transmitting Telikom’s radio transmissions from its equipment located on the transmission towers on the terms and conditions set out in this Agreement.
• allow Telikom use of Santos’ sites at no costs, in consideration for the co-siting rights.
• be given a redundant link via Telikom’s terrestrial network while Telikom will access Santos’ optical fibre link between Iagifu Ridge and Port Moresby, and cost-effective network expansion into Gulf, Southern Highlands, Hela, and Western Provinces.

Based on the agreement, the parties recognise the need for collaboration and assistance to improve telecommunications services in the LNG impacted project areas, including access to high-speed internet and related services.

Santos looks forward to the collaboration with Telikom PNG to help contribute to the development of our rural communities, workforce, contractors, local employees (when they return to their communities on FIFO breaks), landowners, and further empower individuals and create long-term positive change through telecommunications development and access. This investment in the country's future will create a more connected, resilient society for future generations as we continue to demonstrate the Santos value of building a better future for all.

 The Government and the project partners for the US$12 billion (or K36 billion) P'nyang LNG project in Western signed the Fiscal Stability Agreement on March 18, 2024 in Port Moresby. [1]

Prime Minister James Marape was present at the signing at the Government House, Konedobu. He expressed his gratitude and commendation to ExxonMobil, the project partners, co-venturers, along with the Western Provincial Government for their concerted endeavor and cooperation with the National Government which led to the significant progress of the P'nyang LNG Project. [2]

Also present at the signing was the Governor General, Sir Bob Dadae.

Esso PNG P'nyang Limited and Ampolex (Papua New Guinea) Limited (who are both affiliates of ExxonMobil PNG), and Santos and JX Nippon are the project co-venturers.

The signing of the Fiscal Stability Agreement is a milestone step in the advancement of the project, making it potentially the third LNG export project of PNG. The signing follows the execution of the P'nyang LNG Project gas agreement in February 2022.

The Prime Minister said the signing of the Fiscal Stability Agreement is a proof of PNG's dedication to fostering increased economic activities, and to send a positive signal to investors in the extractive sector.

He stated, "You were our anchor managing partner in the PNG LNG Project, entering our country through that project in the early part of this millennium." [1]

"And you fully understand the necessity for our country to benefit more from resource projects, proving yourself as exemplary partners." [1]

Chairperson and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG/Esso PNG P'nyang Limited, Tera Shandro said the development of the P'nyang LNG Project would bring significant benefits to all its stakeholders and further enhance Papua New Guinea's position as an LNG-exporting nation.

Reference:

[1] (19 March 2024). The National. "State, firm sign K36 billion project". https://www.thenational.com.pg/state-firm-sign-k36-billion-project/

[2] (18 March 2024). PNG Post-Courier Online. "Prime Minister Marape commends Exxon Mobil and partners for advancing P'nyang LNG project".

[3] ExxonMobil PNG (14 Sept. 2023). Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=625454603086200&set=a.435347885430207&locale=en_GB

In a significant development for tourism along the historical Kokoda Track, Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, was sworn in as the Deputy Chairman of the Kokoda Track Special Purposes Authority’s (KTA) Management Committee during a ceremony held at Stanley’s Hotel on Tuesday, March 19, Port Moresby. 

The swearing-in ceremony witnessed the appointment of a total of 10 committee members, representing government agencies, Local Level government representatives, and Landowner leaders. Among the notable appointments, Jack Deia, the Landowner Representative of the Koiari people, was elected as the Chairman of the KTA committee following a vote by committee members.

The event was attended by dignitaries including the Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Isi Henry Leonard, and the Governor of Central Province, Rufina Peter, along with representatives from government bodies, Kokoda Landowners, KTA members, and the Conservation and Protection Authority (CEPA).
Addressing the gathering, Honourable Minister, Isi Henry Leonard, emphasized the crucial role of the KTA in promoting tourism. 

“The Kokoda track is one of this country’s largest tourism attractions, not just because of its historical significance, but also its natural beauty that attracts many to this iconic site,” said Leonard. 

Governor Rufina Peter echoed Minister Leonard’s sentiments, congratulating the newly sworn-in committee members and stressing the importance of prioritizing the interests of the landowners. 

“I’d like to encourage you all to listen to the landowners and the people – Landowners must be happy,” Governor Peter remarked. 

She further emphasized the economic potential of tourism, highlighting its role in providing a sustainable alternative to mining and ensuring the preservation of the Kokoda Track’s cultural and environmental heritage.

Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) Chief Executive Officer, Eric Mossman Uvovo, highlighted the significance of Kokoda Track tourism emphasizing the need to showcase this iconic site to the global audience. 

“Kokoda is one of our most important tourism products, and we should be driving this product to the world.

When you talk about conserving the environment and the lush ecosystem at Kokoda, when you talk about sustainability for the landowners and for their many generations to come, then we have to really start talking about tourism for Kokoda,” said Uvovo. 

Uvovo’s appointment as Deputy Chairman of the KTA Management Committee signifies a collaborative effort towards enhancing tourism management and sustainable development along the Kokoda Track. With the collective expertise and dedication of committee members, the KTA is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing tourism initiatives and preserving the cultural and natural heritage of this iconic site for future generations.

The Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) on Friday March 22, 2024, played host to a delegation from the Department of Mines of the Southern African country of Botswana.

The MRA Managing Director Jerry Garry, welcomed the delegation and presented an overview of PNG's mining industry and the MRA and its functions.

The delegation comprised of the Director of Mines Ofentse Ditsele, the Principal Mining Surveyor Kabelo Ogaketse, the Principal Geo-Information Officer Pelonomi Matlotse, and Geologist Ndiwo Lesetedi.

The group visited MRA to see, learn and get information about our tenements management system, with the view of using the same system in their department. The delegation also visited the MRA's Mineral Production Data Hub and the core-shed.

After 50 years of diplomatic relationship between the Independent State of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Republic of the Philippines, the Trade Ministers of both countries have agreed for the first ever Trade Committee Meeting between the two countries to be held in Manila on June 17-18, 2024. The PNG Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru and the Filipino Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, Hon. Alfredo Espinosa Pascual agreed to this historic Trade Committee Meeting during their meeting in Manila last week.

Minister Maru said: “The Trade Committee members of both countries will include all key sectors and agencies responsible for trade and investment between our two countries including the Department of International Trade and Investment, and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Myself and Minister Pascual will be in attendance to officiate this important and historic meeting. The agenda for the meeting will include negotiating and signing a very comprehensive Trade and Investment Partnership Agreement between our two countries at the earliest opportunity, including developing and signing a Free Trade Agreement between our two countries. This critical agreement will provide the political will on both sides to progress initiatives to strengthen and deepen the trade and investment relationship between our two countries.”

Minister Maru further stated: “In terms of two-way trade between our two countries, in 2022, PNG exported USD132 million to the Philippines and the Philippines exported USD20.5 million to PNG- the trade is in our favor. They have a big market with 120 million people to feed and have been enquiring to buy rice from PNG if we are able to grow enough rice to feed ourselves and have rice available for export. They also need energy to supply their growing energy needs and have enquired about buying LNG gas from PNG. We also have attractive investment opportunities for them like investing in our mining and petroleum industry, agriculture, fisheries, energy, tourism and hospitality, health, skills training, and so much more.”

“We can also learn from the lessons they have learnt from their development challenges and experiences coming from the same background as ours. We have over 37, 000 Filipinos living in PNG and they are also a Christian country like us and it is easier to relate to them,” added Minister Maru.

The National Executive Council (NEC) in its Decision No: 43/2024 approved for Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) to be officially invited to visit Papua New Guinea (PNG) for exploratory discussion to open an office in PNG. This is following a very strong representation made by the Global Managing Director of the TBI, Mr. Michael McNair in a meeting with the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru at the margins of the World Economic Forum in Davos- Klosters, Switzerland last month on their eagerness to open a fully-fledged office in PNG this year.

“I want to thank the Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape and the NEC for this approval which is a key outcome of my attendance at the World Economic Forum 2024,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru explained: “TBI is a non-profit organization that was established by the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair who during his tenure as prime minister implemented a major domestic-policy agenda and through record investment and reforms the performance of the UK’s education and health-care sectors was radically improved, crime was reduced by a third, and a landmark legislation to tackle climate change was introduced. All these were done in the context of record economic growth and employment levels. After leaving office, Mr. Blair established TBI with the aim to work with political leaders around the world to create real change for their people by advising on strategy, policy, and delivery. TBI was established on the belief that a country’s success and ability to enact transformational change is dependent on the effectiveness of its leadership and governance. They have offices in over 50 countries around the world and have led countries, businesses, NGOs, think-tanks, and charities, and have advised presidents and assisted prime ministers. They are funded in two ways- by reimbursement of cost by countries they operate in or being funded by sponsors to operate in various countries including donor agencies.”

Minister Maru further stated: “PNG has many development challenges and needs every help from organizations like the TBI who not only had the experience but also has the global reach. We can benefit from many of the networks that they have right across the world and also learn from the development experience of the rest of the world, leveraging their establishments and their relationships, including developing a far better relationship with the UK who have offered to assist us in our transition into a green economy, in the area of carbon credit and biodiversity credit, and other areas of international trade that will be of benefit to PNG.”

“The proposed TBI office in Port Moresby will not only service PNG but the rest of the Pacific Region. They also have offices in Indonesia and Timor-Leste. In every country they operate in they have up to six fulltime staff both local and international,” added Minister Maru.

A shipment of diesel and Jet A1 was recently discharged at NapaNapa to assist the country address its current fuel shortage crisis.

The National Government, under the Essential Services Act and through an NEC decision, mandated Kumul Petroleum Holdings to find commercial solution to help the country manage the energy crisis. KPHL took over a shipment of fuel brought in by ExxonMobil, purchased in US dollars and sold to Puma Energy in Kina, for Puma to supply the country through its infrastructure network.  

The STI Seneca tanker berthed at NapaNapa recently to discharge 230,000 bbls of diesel and 37,000 bbls of Jet A1 fuel into the Puma storage tanks. All fuel retailers and distributors are encouraged to engage with Puma for distribution to customers.

Kumul Petroleum managing director, Wapu Sonk, said “this is an historic import of petroleum products by Kumul Petroleum, the first time that the national oil company has participated in downstream business in its short 14-year history.”

KPHL plans to import more fuel in the same manner and assured the country that with KPHL, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies and other fuel importers playing their part, the emerging fuel crisis should now ease off and over time the market would return to normal.

Mr Sonk concluded, “We are grateful that the Government has given Kumul Petroleum the mandate to initiate this activity. Whilst we deal with the immediate supply issue, KPHL has also started working on building import infrastructure, especially for Jet A1, to be followed by diesel and petrol, to complement what is already available in the country, especially in Port Moresby.”

“KPHL intends to build infrastructure in Lae and other strategic locations around the country as a long-term solution.”

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has begun discussions with alternate global fuel traders to open up the market to properly secure the country’s energy supply needs.

Prime Minister Marape is being accompanied at these meetings by Petroleum Minister, Hon. Jimmy Maladina.

PM Marape said, “We are in initial discussions with reputable global fuel traders who are in the business of refining fuel, bunkering, and retail distribution. Papua New Guinea can be a strategic hub to supply the Pacific.

“We want to open the market and remove monopoly. The government’s role is to ensure that the country gets the correct price, quality and reliability into the future to avoid the predicament we are experiencing with Puma Energy.

“We have Papua LNG Project, P’nyang LNG Project, and Pasca Gas coming up. Condensate from these projects will be refined in Papua New Guinea for local fuel consumption under domestic market obligation and exported.

“The National Executive Council has tasked Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) to look into downstream processing of fuel for the long term. In the medium term, KPHL will be the State nominee to partner any global fuel trader who has interest in refining and bunkering of fuel in the PNG. All proposals will be assessed on its merit by the Department of Petroleum as the regulator.”

Prime Minister Marape met with Ampol – the largest supplier of fuel in Australia – in Brisbane before traveling to Singapore to meet with Sinopec of Singapore and Petro China. Ampol already has presence in PNG supplying fuel to mining companies and Puma Energy. Prime Minister Marape will also meet with Puma Energy on its long-term intention for business in Papua New Guinea.

The Prime Minister thanked ExxonMobil who is currently bringing in fuel supplies for storage and distribution by Puma Energy under emergency arrangements.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape says Papua New Guinea can learn from countries like South Korea, in terms of quality Government service delivery and significantly improving living standards of citizens.

Prime Minister Marape, upon emphasising the importance of quality delivery of leadership and service for the country to enable an efficient public service and a robust economy for the future, made a specific comparative analysis with the country of South Korea on Thursday, March 21, 2024, during a meeting with heads of government departments and agencies in Port Moresby. Also present were several ministers.

He highlighted that South Korea was amongst the poorest nations of the world in 1953, with 67 dollars per capita, but today it is the 11th largest economy globally.

Prime Minister Marape said in 1973 when PNG gained self-government, South Korea had 407 dollars per capita, compared to Papua New Guinea having 486 dollars per capita at the time, in which PNG was ranked slightly higher than South Korea in per capita terms. As the 11th biggest economy in the world today, South Korea now has 33,147 dollars per capita, while PNG has just surpassed 3,500 dollars per capita.

“If South Korea can transform economically through significant change in government service delivery mechanisms and policy frameworks within a short period of time from being one of the poorest nations in the world to becoming the 11th biggest economy now, Papua New Guinea can do the same or better, given our vast natural resources and massive land area. PNG is four times the size of South Korea,” he told the departmental and agency heads.

Prime Minister Marape strongly urged ministers and public servants throughout the country to effectively deliver on their job expectations, aiming to meet global standards. He reminded the ministers, departmental heads and agency leaders on their duty expectations which were issued in January this year.

“The first quarter of the year is winding up; it is time to reflect upon what is being achieved and identify the critical needs for progress and development going forward in the public sector,” he said.

“We, as leaders in government, must deliver to maximum expectation and output, as determined by our key result areas and job specifications . I encourage all public servants, especially those of you here in leadership positions of government, to be committed to your work for through you, we will see the difference for our country to thrive,” said Prime Minister Marape.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso also expressed concern regarding public sector performance towards enabling efficient delivery of services to the people, especially the majority of the population who are in the rural areas of the country. “We as leaders in the public service have a duty to serve our people. And we must carry out this duty with due diligence and excellence,” he said.

Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu, in a response statement on behalf of the public service, acknowledged the challenge and call by Prime Minister Marape for public servants throughout the country to execute productive service in their lines of duty. The Chief Secretary also highlighted key deliverable projects this year for the Public Service including the National Census.

Hon. Muguwa Dilu, MP, Minister for Mining, has given an update on the PNG's mining sector. On his recent public statement, he highlighted the priority sectors of the government. The minister stated that he is committed in supporting policy initiatives that benefit the interest of all parties involved.

"The extractive industry has always accounted for more than 80% of the total export revenue of PNG. It plays a significant role in supporting skills development, wage income tax, employment opportunities, and community project developments."

He mentioned that according to the 2019 PNG Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI) Report, there was a total of PGK 32 billion in contributions from the extractive industries that year. However, only 18.5% (PGK 6.14 billion kina) of that sum was received by PNG entities. Out of which, only 3.7% (PGK 1.2 billion kina) went to the National Government.

"In that year, mining alone contributed about 44% (PGK15 billion) of the total export revenues and the extractive industries collectively contributed 86% of the export volume out of the country. However, only 7% of that went to government revenue."

"This is a significant concern in line with the theme 'TAKE BACK PNG'. Are we being responsible to the people of Papua New Guinea in comparison to other jurisdictions throughout the world? Why is there a huge disproportionate return for the State against a huge volume of our resources being exported out of the country?"

Regarding mining regulatory framework developments, the minister enumerated two important changes that were made under the administration of Prime Minister Hon. James Marape.

The first one is the Mineral Data Repository Hub for the National Government. In 2020, the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management (DMPGM) made an amendment to the Mining Act 1992 which mandates all operating mines to submit live extraction and export data in real-time to a central hub at the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA).

The second one is the Alluvial Mining Policy, a policy change in 2021 that restricts and reserves alluvial mining activities for Papua New Guineans only.

He said, "A majority of our people are active participants in the alluvial mining sector. Therefore, this Government has reserved all alluvial mining activities for Papua New Guinean artisanal and small-scale miners only. This also extends to the buying and export of alluvial gold from PNG with the exception of existing foreign operators who are exempted by the State."

Additionally, the Minister noted three priority areas or key government priorities, namely: Porgera Gold Mine, Wafi Golpu Mining Project, and Frieda River Project.

"To advance the PNG mining industry, I have underscored the following key priorities as the new Mining Minister. This emphasizes the National Government’s commitment to these outstanding commitments."

For Porgera Gold Mine, the aim is to ensure the successful conclusion of the Porgera Compensation Agreement in order to facilitate the resumption of gold production at Porgera.

For Wafi Golpu Mining Project, they will work on the conclusion of the project negotiations and the permitting of the Wafi Golpu projects before the end of 2024.

Lastly, for Frieda River Project, the target is the advancing of the Frieda River project license application through to project negotiations with the State.

The Minister also mentioned additional priorities for this year in terms of legislative and policy priorities, namely the Mining Act 1992 review, the review of the Mining (Safety) Act 1977, Production Sharing Regime, Gold Bullion Bank, support for the Alluvial Mining Sector, New Policy Initiatives, and Geohazards Management.

On the Geohazards Management, Minister Dilu said, “Priority will be given to this area which performs a very vital function under the Ministry that undertakes 24/7 monitoring and assessment to safeguard and protect the lives of our people in areas prone to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, and landslides.”

“Major priorities will be the relocation of the Rabaul Volcano Observatory, the replacement of obsolete monitoring equipment, and the conclusion of the Geohazards Management Policy.”

“The importance of collaboration among all stakeholders within the mining sector is vital in this industry. As the Minister responsible, I stand committed to supporting policy initiatives that benefit the interests of all parties involved.”

As an overview of PNG’s Mineral Production, over the last five years, the average annual metal production has been the following: Gold 2.4 million ounces; Copper 84,500 tons concentrate; Nickel 33,500 tons; Cobalt 3,000 tons; and Chromite 123,000 tons concentrate.

For an outlook on the minerals, PNG expects strong total annual copper production, averaging between 500,000 tons to a maximum of 700,000 tons per annum for a period of more than 30 years, after Wafi Golpu and Frieda River projects are commissioned as operating mines.

“These mega projects will take 5 to 7 years for construction and hopefully by 2030, these projects may become operating mines. Indeed, PNG will become a significant copper producer for critical minerals in the globe, possibly for over a period of three decades.”

He also reported that gold production from PNG declined from over 2 million ounces gold to about 1. 3 million ounces gold per annum since closure of the Porgera mine.

On the other hand, nickel and cobalt production outputs may increase to up to 90,000 and 9,000 tons per annum, respectively if Ramu MCC’s proposal to double its production output will push through and if the Mambare (Oro Nickel) is starts its production.

BizPrint and Scan proudly announces its designation as an Official Print Partner for the highly anticipated 2024 PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference, scheduled to be held at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby on July 3-4, 2024.

As a silver sponsor of the event, BizPrint and Scan will play a crucial role in facilitating the success of the conference by providing comprehensive printing services for all participating businesses.  A key highlight will be on BizPrint’s Scan Bureau and their commercial scanning service to assist businesses in the country digitalise their business.

The 2024 PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference is a premier platform aimed at bringing together businesses operating in the mining and resources sectors to showcase their latest products, technologies, and innovations. With over one hundred stalls expected to participate, the event promises to be a significant gathering for industry stakeholders, both local and international.

“We are delighted to announce our partnership with the 2024 PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference as the Official Print Partner and silver sponsor,” said Peter Goodwin, Remington Group CEO. “Our role in providing printing services for the event underscores our commitment to supporting local businesses and initiatives, and we are excited to contribute to such vital events that bring together businesses from different sectors. The hosting of this event will undoubtedly help boost the visibility of businesses in the mining and resources industries and promote businesses and their services within our country. We look forward to contributing to the success of this important event.”

Ok Tedi Mining Limited recently welcomed 16 new intakes under its Graduate Development Scheme Program.

The cohort completed their respective university programs in 2023 and were selected after meeting the GDS program entry requirements.

General Manager Social Performance and Sustainability, Jesse Pile, welcomed the intakes and urged them to grab this opportunity with open arms.

“We have a high calibre of technically skilled people. Depending on what department you are attached with, you will be working with highly specialised people. Embrace the opportunity by learning from them,” said Mr Pile.

He added that there is a professional career pathway within OTML through the GDS program and highlighted that Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Ilimbit, is a product of the GDS program.

“Our current MD & CEO is a product of the GDS program including other managers and general managers. So it’s a great program to be a part of,” said Mr Pile.

The 2023 cohort includes graduates from The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (10) and the University of Papua New Guinea (4), and Divine Word University (2).

They represent disciplines in Accounting, Human Resource Management, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Geology, Mining Engineering, Mineral Processing, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical

Engineering, Information & Communication Technology, and Applied Physics & Instrumentation.

Since 1988 OTML has trained 590 graduates under its GDS program.

Santos is pleased to announce the establishment of its new Global Support Centre in PNG, providing a new avenue for leveraging local talent and promoting them worldwide.

The PNG Global Support Centre was officially launched by Prime Minister, James Marape, in Port Moresby recently through what was described as a milestone achievement for Santos in PNG and around the region.

The facility will operate as a hub for providing critical support services to Santos' worldwide operations, using local highly skilled workforce.

In his keynote address, the Prime Minister acknowledged Santos for being consistent as a corporate citizen in PNG and for adapting to a call to add value in its core business though investment in human resources.

“We do acknowledge the global outreach Santos has in respect to mobilising not just capital and resources for projects in PNG but more importantly, mobilising opportunities for the Human Resources that work within us,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Santos Executive Vice President of Eastern Australia and Papua New Guinea, Brett Darley, welcomed and thanked the Prime Minister for his presence in witnessing and officiating at a historical milestone for the Santos workforce in PNG as the company continues to fulfil its strategic intent to help position PNG for future growth opportunities.

“Our intent is that this Global Support Centre will be a catalyst for employment opportunities, harnessing the potential of local talent and creating pathways for skills and leadership development for our workforce into the future,” Mr Darley said.

Mr Darley said the launch of the Global Support Centre is a testament to Santos' long-standing partnership with PNG and its dedication to supporting the country's economic growth as the company remains committed to investing in PNG and fostering a mutually beneficial relationship for years to come.

Santos Country Chair, PNG, Leon Buskens said the PNG Global Support Centre initiative and the new roles that come with it will support the broader Eastern Australia PNG asset portfolio resulting in “in-sourcing” of engineering and maintenance activity as the initial phase, from Australia and overseas contractors to PNG and moreover, direct employment of nationals.

“This initiative is consistent with both our commitment to grow local employment in PNG and complements the PNG Government’s aspirations found in its National Content Policy framework,” Mr Buskens said.

The PNG Global Support Centre aims to increase employment, use local talent to generate opportunities consequently, achieving the company’s ultimate objective which is to shape a brighter future for PNG, filled with opportunity, economic prosperity, and technological superiority.

The primary phase of this project will focus on enhancing PNG's maintenance and engineering services. The Global Support Centre project was a multi-year initiative, and the (Centre’s) tag line "One World, One Team" signifies that though Santos operates in different regions in the world, every individual belongs to One world, and are part of the One (Santos) team.  

The PNG Global Support Centre will operate initially through a team of six national professionals that will be stationed in Port Moresby, with plans to expand to Santos’ Australian operations by July 2024.

As the initiative gains momentum, more national employees will take up these roles.

Steamships and Pacific Palms Property were proud to celebrate a significant milestone, officially opening the flagship development, Harbourside South, Harbourside Precinct’s newest property located in Port Moresby’s CBD. 

The momentous occasion was attended by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, Governor Hon. Powes Parkop, Barnaby Swire, Chairman of the Swire Group, Marriott Group Executives Tristan Cooper and Scott Lowe, and the Steamships board of directors. Designed to meet the evolving needs of the National’s capital, Harbourside South stands as a beacon of progress, innovation, and opportunity. The mixed-use nature of this building offers unparalleled versatility and promises to reshape urban living, workspaces, and recreational experiences. 

“Steamships and its businesses are deeply committed to the development and growth of Papua New Guinea,” said Managing Director Rupert Bray. “Our investment into the precinct has brought in new international brands such as the Marriott, highlighting Steamships’ reliability and confidence as a joint-venture partner and business leader in PNG.”  

Harbourside South features include a retail floor with thirteen outlets and three A-grade commercial floors (2,400m2) all of which are fully tenanted. The building is also home to the country’s first Marriott Executive Apartments, with an impressive eighty-eight suites. The spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments are fully equipped with a kitchen, laundry, 24-hr security and a luxury, “At Your Service” concierge team to assist with your every need. The Mariott Executive Apartments also offer three penthouse suites, all with wrap around balconies and magnificent views of Fairfax Harbour. Guests have the option of earning loyalty points through Marriott Bonvoy, which also offers guests free wifi member rates and mobile check-in. The Marriott Executive Apartments are available for short and long-term rentals with a minimum 1-week stay.  

A pedestrian link bridge connecting Harbourside South to the existing culinary hub of the Harbourside East and West development offers tenants and customers safe and secure access to both sites. 

A private member’s lounge is situated on the 11th floor, offering Marriott Executive Apartment tenants, and its members exclusive access to a luxury spa, conference spaces, private lounge and dining experiences, a roof top pool, a children’s recreational area and state of the art gymnasium, equipped with a lap pool and fitness studio.  

Harbourside South is also in the process of obtaining an EDGE certification, a recognition which all Steamships properties are aiming to achieve, as part of the company’s commitment to sustainable operations.

With its mixed-use concept, sustainable design, and commitment to innovation, the building is poised to become an iconic hub of progress, fostering growth, and propelling the nation onto the global stage. 

Atlas Steel PNG has announced that it is now a one-stop shop for steel fabrication in Papua New Guinea.

Before, Atlas Steel PNG would supply raw steel sections to the PNG Steel Fabrication industry. Now it offers a full steel fabrication service to its customers.

Atlas Steel PNG can now fabricate steel from start to finish, and its services are available at both its Lae and Port Moresby factories.

This steel -- be it structural beams, steel plates, or the multitude of other steel shapes that are used in constructing a structure -- come with full 100% traceability and mill test certificates.

“All our steel materials are sourced from reputable steel manufacturers throughout Australasia,” the company said in a statement.

Atlas Steel PNG senior management have over a combined 150 years of experience fabricating steel for such prestigious projects as Porgera Gold Mine, Lihir Gold Mine, OK Tedi Copper Mine, Kutubu Oil Field, PNG LNG and Papua LNG, and other large resource projects.

Its fabrication services include full detailed design of a building, steel fabrication workshop drawings, structural fabrication of all beam sizes, platework fabrication of hoppers and chutes, storage tanks for petrochemical use, as well as associated pipe work and more.

The fully equipped workshops can produce large volumes of steel per week, Atlas Steel PNG says.

“Our welders are qualified to AS1554SP and ASME standards, boilermakers are apprentice served trades people, all under the watchful guidance of fully experienced supervisors,” the company adds.

Atlas Steel PNG workshops can comfortably fabricate 50-plus tonnes of medium structural steel per week.

“We offer a full grit blasting service, with professional blasting to international NAC standards 1 to 4, complimented by airless and conventional and industrial painting with industrial paint epoxies, glass flake and enamel paints,” it adds.

The Papua New Guinea National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology (PNG NISIT) has officially signed the Memorandum of Understanding with the Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM) Berhad in the field of science and technology on the 29th of February 2024, in Malaysia.

SIRIM President and Group Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Indera IR Dr. Ahmad Sabirin Arshad said the deal would now strengthen standardisation and enhanced industrial activities in Papua New Guinea with SIRIM providing a range of services such as testing, education and medical assistance.

“This cooperation will inadvertently safeguard Papua New Guinea against unsafe and subpar products, promote measurement and technical standards for commerce and industry in PNG and improve the country’s industrial efficiency,” he said.

Leading team NISIT to Malaysia was Acting Director-General Mr Victor Gabi with Executive Managers Mr Noah Sapak and Mr Benzamine Zairo with other support staff.

The Secretary for Department of Commerce and Industry Mr David Ganai, who attended the ceremony, said this vital deal from abroad will help the country especially in the field of commerce and industry.

Mr Ganai said with NISIT being the implementation arm of the government, this deal would help improve commerce and industry.

The ceremony occurred in the city of Shah Alam, which is where the headquarters of SIRIM is located.

Mr Gabi said “Our country needs to grow the industry because many businesses there do not have a proper sight to do cross-checking and balancing, and we hope the MOU can help to advance the industrial development to a higher level.”

The deal is to promote cooperation between the two parties in areas of:

• Natural Sciences;
• Engineering and Technology; 
• Medical and Health Sciences; 
• Agricultural Sciences; 
• Social Science and Humanities; 
• Promoting Technology Transfer and Commercialisation corporation; and, 
• Other research areas, as mutually agreed by the Parties.

The partnership will serve as a forum for collaboration between NISIT and SIRIM for joint interest vis-à-vis a strategic alliance to:

• Joint technical setup, research projects and development projects;
• Exchange of researchers, scientists, engineers (“RSEs”) technical experts and consultants participating in execution of joint Parties and for facilitating the exchange of knowledge and information of target groups;
• Organising and participating in scientific meetings such as symposia, seminars, courses, workshops, exhibitions and conferences on topics of mutual interests of the Parties;
• Exchange of metrological, scientific and technical research results, information, documentation, and material arising from the bilateral scientific and technology cooperation;
• Joint use of research and development facilities and scientific equipment;
• Joint publication;
• Promoting technology transfer cooperation;
• Industry standard development, calibration, measurement, conformity assessment and testing facility services to establish quality infrastructure;
• Networking in industry research development, technology transfer and quality infrastructure services; and,
• Other activities as mutually agreed upon in writing by the Parties.

The MOU between NISIT and SIRIM was initially planned for signing in Port Moresby last year but that did not happen due to some challenges faced, hence SIRIM took the initiative to host the event this year.

The relationship between SIRIM and NISIT has been growing strong since 2017. The signing of the MOU officiates and defines well this relationship.

The partnership is for two years and during that time NISIT and SIRIM hope to achieve all goals set in the MOU, if and where possible.