The Governor for Guangdong Province of China, Wang Weizhong said his Government was already working with a local airline company, the China Southern Airlines to open direct flights between Port Moresby and Guangzhou following his discussion with Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape during his visit to Port Moresby in July this year. Governor Weizhong said this during a banquet that he hosted for the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru and his delegation. Governor Weizhong said the opening of direct flights between Port Moresby and Guangzhou would improve more business connectivity between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Guangdong Province, and China.

Governor Weizhong said that Chinese private sector and the Chinese enterprises in Papua New Guinea (PNG) raised a concern that it took relatively long for them to get visas. He suggested that PNG Government established a consulate in Guangzhou to help facilitate visas for not only business travelers but also for tourists with tourism being a huge market which was untapped. Vanuatu had recently opened its consulate in Guangzhou in addition to their embassy in Beijing, making it the 68th country to open a consulate in Guangzhou specially to facilitate the process of visas.

Governor Weizhong said he was keen to support more investors from his province to invest in PNG and he would be sending a large delegation to attend the inaugural PNG-Asia Investment Conference in Hong Kong which will be hosted in October 16-17, 2023. He also specifically requested for Prime Minister Marape to visit Guangdong Province, in particular the capital of the province, Guangzhou, during his visit to Hong Kong and Beijing in October.

Governor Weizhong also supported PNG Government’s decision to establish a trade mission in Shenzhen, and he said he would be happy to be there when Prime Minister Marape cut the ribbon to open the trade mission in October this year.

Minister Maru said his one-week visit to Guangdong Province was to let the Government and the people of China know that PNG was ready to do business with Guangdong Province and China.

“We will work on attending to the issues that have been raised as a concern to the people and the Government of China so we can improve the trade and investment relationship between our two countries and our people,” said Minister Maru.

Papua New Guinean marine services company Pacific Towing (PacTow) is assisting Australia’s Pacific Marine Group (PMG) with the upgrade of two major PNG ports.  PacTow’s commercial dive team completed work at the Alotau provincial wharf in Milne Bay Province in May and is part way through similar work  in Manus Province.  The two port upgrades are part of a broader infrastructure program funded by multiple parties including the PNG and Australian governments.

PacTow General Manager, Neil Papenfus, confirms that PacTow and PMG collectively hold nearly 70 years marine services’ experience in PNG and that their working relationship commenced in 2017 with a 900-metre ocean outfall pipeline project in Port Moresby’s Fairfax Harbour.  PacTow commercial divers were involved in several aspects of the project including the relocation of hundreds of living corals from the new pipeline footprint.

The more recent Alotau provinical wharf project involved the demolition of an existing jetty, followed by the installation of a new jetty made from tubular steel piles and a concrete deck.  A new floating concrete pontoon, together with an access walkway from the jetty and associated site buildings were also delivered as part of the project.

PacTow’s commercial dive team’s involvement in the Alotau project included a seabed survey, debris clearance, underwater cutting of broken steel piles, gridline mark outs, and the application of pile jackets on all new piles.  PacTow divers worked on the Alotau project for approximately five weeks split over a seven-month period (i.e., Oct 2022 - May 2023).  Commercial Dive Manager, Ricky Leka, reports that the project went well although it was called off at one point for three days due to strong wind (i.e., 25-30 Knots) and rough seas.

PacTow divers commenced work for PNG in Manus in May on the upgrade and extension of an existing marine facility as part of a significant and ongoing infrastructure project.  Their responsibilities have included clearing debris, removing old anode straps, and installing new anode straps. Similar to the Alotau wharf project, they will work on the project in several different stages, returning to site when required until its estimated completion in Q4 2023.

PacTow has PNG’s (as well as broader Melanesia’s) only permanent commercial dive team.  Its divers are internationally trained and certified with a wealth of experience servicing diverse sectors throughout the region.  Oil and gas majors are among PacTow’s clients, and the company has introduced numerous niche services for PNG’s growing oil and gas sector, including emergency response and spill services.

The PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum (“the Chamber”) is pleased to welcome on board Touchstone NDT Limited as its newest member.

As a new service member Touchstone NDT Limited like all other service members can participate in Chamber events at discounted offers which adds more value to their business by networking with other service members as well as those from the full and associate member categories.

Managing Director and Founder of Touchstone NDT Limited Mr. Lawa Kiriwi said it was timely for his company to sign up as a member with the Chamber given the different projects within the industry.

“We endeavor to become Papua New Guinea’s leading Non – Destructive Testing (NDT) and Asset Integrity Company through best technology methods, business partnerships, and human resource development by providing training and employment. We look forward to participating at Chamber events as this is a great platform for us to grow our business and add value to the communities we operate in and overall, the industry.”

Touchstone NDT Limited is a 100% PNG owned company specializing in offering Conventional and Advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Lifting Gear Inspections, Load Testing, Plant Storage Tanks, Pressure Vessels & Piping, Inspections and Dropped Object Prevention Solutions (DROPS) survey which are services needed by operators in the mining and petroleum industry.

Papua New Guineans are paying 100% more for rice than they should be, according to a local commercial rice company, Rigo Rice. Rigo Rice has been growing and selling rice for the last five years in their small commercial farm at Rigo in Central Province. They sell their rice to wholesalers for K3 plus GST. Owner of Rigo Rice, Mr. Jeffery Kennedy said the company made good profit from selling their rice at a fair price.

An investigation completed by the Department of International Trade and Investment over the weekend found the price of rice in the shelves of shops in Port Moresby showing Rigo Rice to be the cheapest sold at K3.50 per kilo while the most expensive rice is HS Jasmine Red/Gold retailing at K7.48 per kilo as per the table enclosed.

Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru said he could not understand the rice pricing if rice was a price-controlled item.

“ICCC must explain why there is a big difference of up to 100% more from the cheapest rice to the most expensive one. This is totally unacceptable. Rice is a very basic food item of Papua New Guinea. The people of this country are being ripped of as far as I am concerned. ICCC needs to give a full explanation to our country and our 11 million rice consumers why the price of rice is not fixed at K3.50 per kilo across the board if Rigo Rice is saying that they are making a very good profit even at selling their rice at K3.00 per kilo to wholesalers. This is one of the reasons why our people have been complaining about the high cost of living which has reached the highest level since independence,” said Minister Maru.

As a result of the investigation into rice pricing, Minister Maru is now calling on ICCC to explain to the country why the price of rice is expensive as it is and why rice is not price controlled. We spend K900 million to import rice annually.

“We are now also referring the entire rice industry (those who import rice into PNG) to the IRC. We suspect that there is huge transfer pricing, and they are ripping off this country and its people and making profits through their middlemen in other countries. We want IRC to investigate all the rice companies, do a tax audit, and it will not surprise me that they will owe IRC millions of Kina in profits that are kept offshore by their foreign owners,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru said the Government now had two immediate options to take,

“One is to immediately go into a commercial joint venture with Rigo Rice to go into massive commercial rice farming in Central Province and also throughout the country so we can produce more cheaper local rice and create jobs and business opportunities for our people, our businesses, SMEs, and the landowners. The other option is for our Government, using the commercial joint venture with Rigo Rice maybe under Kumul Rice brand to immediately import rice from other countries and repackage the rice in Papua New Guinea and sell it at the local market and compete with these companies. Those are the immediate options available to the Government,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru thanked Rigo Rice for making available the data and information as part of their Rice Special Economic Zone application process.

“While importers can say Rigo Rice only produces a medium grain variety, other variety should not cost over 100% more to produce. Using the data and information that Rigo Rice has provided, we can now understand the real cost of producing rice in PNG and how it is profitable even to sell rice at K3.50 per kilo when imported rice is being sold up to 100% more in price, allowed for by ICCC,” said Minister Maru.

The first step towards reopening of the new Porgera Mine has started today following a Security Forum where leaders and security forces appealed to warring tribes surrounding the mine to stop their tribal conflicts, which affects the mine, businesses and the Porgera Valley.

“The National Government is working day and night to ensure the mine is reopened in September so benefits can flow to the people.

"I appeal to you, the people of Porgera and the surrounding communities to stop fighting and do away with the guns and tap into spin off benefits from the mine.

“Let your children live in peace and get the benefits from the mine and stop the killings.”

These were the strong sentiments echoed by Prime Minister James Marape at the Security Forum at Paiam Town oval in Porgera this morning (20/07/23).

He also appealed to all the affected communities, landowners, mine license areas to bring their issues and grievances and what benefits they would like to get at the new Porgera Mine Development Forum in Wabag next month (August).

"We want to hear from you. We want to know what you want and how we can share the benefits from our 51 per cent stake in the New Porgera Mine,” he said.

Prime Minister Marape said this following the formal announcement of the Wardens Hearing and the Porgera Mine Development Forum by the Minister for Mining Sir Ano Pala at Paiam Town in Porgera Enga Province today.

The National Government wants the next 10 years not to be wasted like the last 30 years.

The Prime Minister said, “I am sorry and we apologize for the closure of the mine for the last 4 years but it was a short-term pain for the long-term gains.

"We have wasted 30 years with the benefits and there is nothing to show for and yet we complain for the four years of closure to negotiate for more.

"You must stop your tribal fight, drop your guns and pick up businesses from the mine.

"The Government, Police and the security forces will come down hard and after you if you keep on fighting.

"The people have suffered enough and the fights must stop,” said Prime Minister Marape.

He appealed to the communities to listen and work with the security forces and maintain law and order.

Prime Minister Marape said the National Government is looking forward to the Porgera Mine Development Forum in Wabag and wants all parties to take their issues to the table.

The Prime Minister also presented cheques totalling more than K18 million to the Enga Provincial Government, Porgera Development Authority and Paiam Town areas to start preparations towards hosting the Development Forum in Wabag next month.

The National Government has also announced a total of K700 million for a 7-year infrastructure development grant, which is meant to also address outstanding issues like resettling of people away from the mine area.

Prime Minister Marape also appealed to other people who do nothing and cause trouble to move back to their provinces and villages.

The Prime Minister said the first gold and revenue from the new Porgera Mine is anticipated by October this year or thereafter.

The National Government will issue or sign the Mining License by the end of August this year following the Mine Development Forum.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape emphasised the potential of rugby league as a potent "unifying force" for Papua New Guinea during his address at the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) Bid Corporate dinner in Port Moresby on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.

The event took place as PNG seeks to secure its position as the 18th team in the NRL for the 2025 season.

The dinner, graced by the presence of Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Hon. Pat Conroy, witnessed executives of major companies, Governors, Ministers, and MPs expressing their support for PNG's NRL Bid. Hon. Conroy reiterated the backing of Australian Prime Minister Hon. Anthony Albanese and his Government for this endeavor.

Drawing inspiration from a quote by Nelson Mandela, the late South African leader who eloquently stated, "Sport has the power to change the world... It laughs in the face of all types of discrimination," Prime Minister Marape underscored rugby league's significance as the "common denominator" that has the potential to unite the nation.

"In the PNG context, rugby league is the 'common denominator' that binds and holds our society together, especially at the national level," Prime Minister Marape stated.

He further added, "This is evident when our national team takes to the field. Even during challenging times, the pride of Papua New Guineans in rallying behind our national team is second to none. As the Government, we recognise that this pursuit will provide a platform to unite the most diverse nation on Planet Earth, under one flag."

"The bidding process for a team in the NRL is not solely about rugby league; it is about uniting our nation behind a common focal point," Prime Minister Marape asserted.

"This path will be instrumental in keeping our nation united for the next 50 years and beyond, with rugby league as our country's number one sport. We, as the Government, saw the need for a public policy centred around making this game a unifying force in our country."

Expressing gratitude for the support from the Australian Government in their NRL Bid, Prime Minister Marape remarked, "For us, nothing can be better than both the Australian Government and the Papua New Guinea Government working hand in hand to have a team in the NRL based in Port Moresby, with a footprint in Far North Queensland as well as in the South Pacific.

"Our government stands firmly behind the bid to ensure that the 18th NRL spot is secured by a PNG team," he said.

"Thank you very much to the Australian Government for your unwavering support and for embracing our vision for having a team in the NRL."

President and CEO of Barrick Gold Corporation, Mark Bristow, has on Monday (17.07.23) met with Prime Minister Hon. James Marape to discuss recent progress and the status of the matters remaining to be completed in anticipation of the reopening of Porgera Mine.

Prime Minister Marape welcomed Mr Bristow’s statement that Barrick was committed to PNG “for the long haul” and his pledge that Barrick Niugini Limited, for its part, would do everything under its control to meet the 16 September 2023 re-opening date that the Prime Minister had set as target, and to which both parties are now working diligently toward.

A Development Forum preceding the reopening is imminent within the next several weeks to ensure all landowners and provincial governments are met to iron out, amongst other things, their benefit distributions.

The Government has committed an additional K900 million on top of major gains from project benefits that averages to PNG beneficiaries getting 53 percent to Barrick Gold getting 47 percent in New Porgera.

Both parties committed to fix legacy issues such as proper resettlement, increase land rates and compensation consistent to law, education and health developments, infrastructure developments, and a better law and order environment in Porgera and all project area footprint, including riverine and other project support areas.

To meet the September target, both parties committed to attend to all these maters at hand.

The resource in Porgera can be easily harvested at over 500,000 ounces a year, capable of bringing millions of dollars back into the country at the high gold prices at present.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed his appreciation to the Department of Works and Highways for their outstanding efforts in nearing the completion of the Trans-National Highway Corridor Missing Link between Aseki in Morobe and Epo in Gulf.

Prime Minister Marape commended the dedicated teams of the Department of Works and Highways for their relentless work under challenging conditions, including continuous rain and rugged terrain, to establish this crucial road. He emphasised that this accomplishment exemplifies the success of the Marape Government's flagship 'Connect PNG' programme.

During his visit to remote Menyamya in Morobe earlier this year, Prime Minister Marape followed the route of the Trans-National Highway by helicopter. This experience further reinforced his admiration for the project and the teams involved.

"I extend my commendation to Minister Hon. Solan Mirisim, Secretary David Wereh, and the entire team of civil engineers at the Department of Works and Highways," stated Prime Minister Marape.

"My government is fully committed to addressing key missing links like this, in order to facilitate the development and integration of all regions within our country."

Anticipating the celebration of Papua New Guinea's 50 years of independence on September 16, 2025, Prime Minister Marape expressed his hope that people will be able to travel from Port Moresby to Lae and vice versa through this corridor by then.

The 'Missing Link' of the Trans-National Highway, spanning 159.8km, lies between Oiwa in Aseki, Morobe, and Epo in Gulf.

"From Oiwa to Kotidanga is 81.2km, and Epo to Kotidanga is 78.6km," said the Prime Minister.

With the Department of Works and Highways establishing two teams, Team Morobe and Team Gulf, significant progress has been achieved.

"During the last 21 months, 64km has been completed, with 32km from Morobe and 32km from Gulf, respectively. This represents 39.4 percent from Morobe and 40.7 percent from Gulf, amounting to 40 percent of the 159.8km," highlighted Prime Minister Marape.

To finalise the Trans-National Highway Corridor Missing Link, a remaining distance of 95.8km is yet to be completed. Team Morobe is responsible for 49.2km, while Team Gulf will handle 46.6km. The Prime Minister expects this remaining work to be finished by December 2024.

PNGX Group, operator of Papua New Guinea’s national stock exchange, has welcomed the statement by Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon Richard Maru MP, to seek to increase the size of the Papua New Guinean capital market to over 500 billion kina in the next 4 years.

Minister Maru outlined the objective when announcing the new PNGX Corporate Debt Market. The current total market capitalisation is 135 billion kina. The target represents an increase of 350%.

“We would like to thank the Minister for his final approval of the new corporate debt market” said PNGX Group Chairman, Mr David Lawrence. “We would also like to thank the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the ADB Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI) and the Securities Commission of PNG for their work and support” he said.

The Minister also expressed support for the development of major listed real estate investment trusts (REITs). REITs have the potential to provide opportunities for significant mobilisation of capital and a multiplier effect throughout the economy, including through SMEs in the property development supply chain. PNGX has been working with the Property Developers Association to develop the REIT market.

To support SMEs having better access to capital, the Minister foreshadowed the introduction of a new “small offers” regime to allow SMEs to more easily and cost effectively raise small amounts of capital to fund their growth. PNGX is working on the development of a suitable market structure to support the “small offers” regime.

“The Minister’s comprehensive package of announcements could provide a significant stimulus for the local market. It could deliver the increased diversity of investment opportunities which large and small investors have been seeking.”

The Minister’s target of 500 billion kina market capitalisation within the next 4 years is further supported by the Government’s recently released Medium Term Development Plan which targets 10% annual growth in the number of Papua New Guinean companies listed on PNGX, 10% annual growth in the number of domestic retail investment participants in the market and an increase in the proportion of the PNG population investing in the domestic capital markets.

PNGX welcomes these growth opportunities and expresses its readiness to work closely with all market participants and stakeholders. Our goal is to facilitate the growth emphasized by the Minister and contribute to the overall development of the PNG capital market.

The people of Pimaga, in Kutubu, Southern Highlands Province, were the proud recipients of a brandnew literacy library presented by Santos through the Santos Foundation, signifying the company’s strong commitment to its project impact communities.

At the official opening ceremony at Pimaga in June, over 2000 people gathered at the Kawama Foursquare church ground to celebrate what was described as the first of its kind learning facility established in the community.

Santos Vice President PNG Operations, Sigurdur Jonsson, in his address at the official opening ceremony, commended efforts by all parties who contributed towards the successful completion and finally unveiling of an important resource for the community and especially for the children who are the future leaders of Pimaga.

“Having a quality early childhood education allows children to be able to access opportunities that will lead them to better lives for themselves and their families and develop a lifelong passion for learning,” Mr Jonsson said.

“I am excited to see here today, partners from the government, churches, and the community. Through partnerships, we can effectively leverage resources for greater good and effective service delivery.”

He thanked the Foursquare church and the local landowners for donating the land to build the facility.

Foursquare Church Education Secretary, Steven Aparo applauded Santos for helping to lay a solid foundation for the Kutubu children.

He said the church has a partnership arrangement with schools around the country where they work with the government, non-government organisations (NGOs), and companies to support quality education through a holistic approach.

Meanwhile, First Assistant Secretary of the Education Department, Sam Lora, also commended Santos for contributing towards developing education in the community, emphasising the importance of introducing literacy, especially at an early stage.

Since the literacy library opened its doors early this year, the early childhood learning centre has enrolled 60 children, consisting of 33 boys and 27 girls. The school has benefited the surrounding communities of Kawama, Daga, and Orokana.

The children are taught to read and write, to do simple arithmetic and to learn through and enjoy reading.

The Pimaga Literacy Library was implemented through a partnership with Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), which is a local NGO that provides teacher induction as well as ongoing in-library training support. Apart from supplying 3000 books, numeracy and literacy toolkits, and ongoing teacher and librarian mentoring, BbP also manages salaries of the teacher librarians through a partnership agreement with the Santos Foundation.

The land was donated by the local Foursquare church, and the classroom was funded by the Foundation. A local landowner company, Mananda Investment Corporation (MIC), was contracted to build the facility at a cost of approximately PGK 690,000.

The Pimaga Literacy Library initiative is in line with the latest reform in the national education system, which has taken on and prioritised early childhood education as the way forward to build strong education foundations for children in PNG.

Santos Foundation commenced its literacy library programme in 2016 and has since established four literacy libraries. Two of these are in Hela, one in Kikori, Gulf Province, and now Pimaga in Southern Highlands is the fourth facility.

There are plans to establish a new literacy library in the Moran area, starting with a scoping and needs assessment activity that will commence in July 2023.

The long-overdue Central Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is now set up with an interim board and is poised to deliver change in the Central Province by working with the Central Provincial Government (CPG).

This was announced on Friday, 14th of July 2023, with another historic moment as CCCI received a boost of Kina 200,000 to assist in establishing the CCCI from Central Governor Rufina Peter at the inaugural CCCI meet and greet at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby.

The event drew over 100 individuals from government to business and SMEs. From knights and dames Central Province’s finest turned out.

Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, Minister for Mining and Rigo MP Sir Ano Pala, Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu, elder statesman Sir Moi Avei, Central Provincial Executive Council members, Chairman for SME Corporation John Pora, and Dame Josephine Abaijah graced the event. 

CCCI will officially launch in September 2023.

The K200, 000 presented by Central Governor Rufina Peter is allocated from the Central Provincial Government 2023 budget allocation for the establishment of the chamber, which will be a network of business owners coming together to help guide business legislation in the province.

CCCI Interim President Linda Paru endeavours to protect and promote the interest of Central CCI members, which will also be a business and investment advisor to the Provincial Government and assist and develop foreign trade within the Central Province.

“Central Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a provincial chamber that will affiliate to PNG Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As mentioned earlier, we will have a common objective with other Chambers like Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry etc.,” Ms Paru said.

“However, our unique position is that we are establishing this chamber during the PNG LNG Project and recently announced Papua LNG Project. This enables our members to have greater benefits, have access to resources, and capitalize on the opportunities this project brings to our door,” she said.

Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru stated that the CCCI was long overdue and encouraged the Central Government to make use of the chamber in collecting revenue for the province.

He called on the Central Provincial Government to align their goals with the Medium-Term Development Four-Year plan of the National Government that was launched last Friday at the APEC house.

Besides its gas and oil projects, the Central Province has 2.9 million hectares of forest for carbon trade or current logging operations, converting to downstream processing for timber by 2025. This is apart from fishing, agriculture, logistics, tourism, hospitality, transport, and other industries with small, medium, and large operations within the province.

With access to the largest local market in the country, Central Province is right to establish its Central CCI this time, and the time to start is now, Central Governor Rufina Peter said.

“The time is right, and the time is now for Central Province, the future for Central Province is in our hands, for those of us who are present here it’s not a mistake that were in here,” Peter stated.

The Governor added that she has three visions for Central Province: a united Central Province, transformation of Central Province, and a prosperous Central Province for the benefit of everyone, including the rural people.

“So I guess in the slogan and vision that I have, Unity is first, because if we are not united we cannot make it happen, we need to be united its different spaces when it comes to talking about development.”

“The Government at all levels -- National, Provincial, Local Level Governments -- need the support and need to work in partnership with the private sector, with other levels of Government and with the Churches and NGOs. Everyone needs to work together, because everyone has their own unique role to play for the benefit and progress of transformation and progress of Central Province and the country at large,” Peter said.

The first lady of Central Province called on everyone, including leaders in their various roles or capacities, to make most of the opportunities in Central Province “without dwelling on the past, using the experiences and learnings from the past to drive change and transformation for the province.”

“We need to be very clear where our role is what our role is going forward as we partner and work with other partners that we need to work with to arrive at the destination we want to. (The year) 2025, it’s not far away, and will be an opportunity to set new foundations, set new targets after a 50-year journey of independence in this Government,” she said,

“The National Government has the overarching plans that are giving us direction as to where they want to go to, the challenge is how do personalize that and make it happen where we are. Central Province people, how do we translate those plans and policies to real progress that make sense,” Peter asked.

As Governor, Ms Peter is looking at the enabling environment and the deteriorating conditions of roads, bridges, aid posts, and other infrastructure, including schools, which she admitted “is a challenge that lies” before her.

“I think it calls for everyone and me as Governor to play my role to the best of my ability as Governor, and equally everyone in their own spaces. The only thing that our people can ask from us and our shareholders, the people we are accountable to, can expect from us is to do our very best in what we do, and then link up, partner with us where it’s in their jurisdiction for the people we are mandated to serve.”

Governor Peter reminded the National Government that Provinces have authority running their provinces the way they want it, as priorities are set and not driven from the top down. As the provinces identify the priorities, the Government comes on board and assists where the provinces want them to.

The CCCI will partner with the Central Provincial Government through Governor Peter’s office and administration to bring tangible economic development to the 500,000 people of the Central Province.

CCI will also work closely with the Ministry for International Trade and Investment through the support of Minister Maru for the Special Economic Zone Authority to open free trade zones and encourage Foreign Direct Investment into Central Province.

The interim CCCI board is as follows: Linda Paru, Interim President; Esther Igo, Interim Vice President; Fred Uraru, Interim Treasurer; Dr. Warilea Iamo, Interim Local Business Rep; John Orea, Interim Business Rep; and Douveri Henao, Interim Secretary.

CCCI will address many challenges that face business houses in the province, be it infrastructure, legislation, training, transport, or logistics.

CCCI will assist in bringing in revenue for the Central Provincial Administration through ensuring all business operating within the Province pay their GST, levies in logging, etc. to Central Provincial Government for use to improve the local business environment.

Santos has maximised its sponsorship of the Papua New Guinea Chief of Defence Force Rugby Cup Tournament to advocate an end to family and sexual violence.

The campaign for ‘Happy Homes, Healthy Mindsets and Mission Focused’, was rolled out to Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel at Igam Barracks in Lae by Santos Foundation in close partnership with the PNGDF Gender Committee, the Morobe Family and Sexual Violence Action Committee, Lae Femili PNG and Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited.

Santos Country Chair PNG, Leon Buskens said: “We all can see the devastating effects of family and sexual violence in our communities or have experienced some form of violence in our lifetime. At Santos, our objective is to improve the living standards in the communities where we operate. We pursue this objective with reference to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 5: Gender Equality.

“As part of this objective, we invest in strategic partnerships and look at sponsorship opportunities that can extend our reach and impact. The fight against violence requires a more concerted effort by everyone.”

Santos and its subsidiary, the PNG Biomass project are platinum sponsors of the Chief of Defence Force Rugby Cup 2023 tournament currently underway in Lae. Santos’ PNG Biomass project in the Markham Valley has been repurposed into a significant Carbon Abatement Project. The project is now focused on the establishment of conversation of forests for carbon sequestration with four million trees already planted.

Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru says he is pleased that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has already started on the design work of the Wewak and Vanimo international wharves which will be completed by January 2024 according to the ADB Country Manager, Mr. David Hill.

“These wharves must be given absolute priority because they are specifically meant to enable us to trade with Indonesia in a very serious way as we step up trade and investment relationship with Indonesia and the rest of Asia,” said Minister Maru.

“The Vanimo Free Trade Zone and the Sepik Plains Special Economic Zone will also be given priority in order to make sure Papua New Guinea produces many tradeable goods to trade with Indonesia including palm oil, cocoa, fish, cattle, rice, and other products for export,” added Minister Maru.

On top of the design work of the wharves, Minister Maru said he was also happy with the Korean Exim Bank who in his last meeting with them in Korea have indicated their interest to fund the Wewak and Vanimo international wharves under a loan to the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Government.

“The Korean Exim Bank is very pleased that the PNG Government has previously paid off the loan that they got for the Wewak Stormwater Project. PNG has a very good record with the Korean Exim Bank. With the partnership with the ADB doing the design work and the Exim Bank agreeing to fund, we could have a very good outcome with the combined efforts of both banks working to assist us with the two key wharves,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru said the other issue that the Government needed to be mindful of was the cost of wharf fees and handling at the Wewak and Vanimo wharves.

“The cost of wharf fees and the handling cost need to be comparable to international cost. There is already a growing complains from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the private sector over the high cost of wharf fees and handling cost in both Lae and in Port Moresby wharves. I have told them to put their concerns to me in writing with all the relevant facts so our Government can deal with their complains,” said Minister Maru.

Minister Maru also thanked the Secretary for the Department of Transport and Infrastructure, Mr. Roy Mumu for his leadership in the development of these two wharves.

“I want to ask the Department of Transport and Infrastructure to work very closely with ADB and the PNG Ports who currently operate the local wharves at Wewak and Vanimo and knows the current volumes of cargo handled by both wharves. They will assist guide the ADB design team on designing a ‘fit for purpose’ wharves rather than over design which could be very costly especially when we are going to borrow money to construct these very critical wharves,” said Minister Maru.

On the 6th of July, 2023, Petroleum & Energy Minister Hon. Kerenga Kua, officially signed the Memorandum of Approval for transfer; of a 2.58% equity share from the operator of the Papua LNG project TotalEnergies EP PNG (TEP PNG) to JX Nippon Oil & Gas Corporation.

Witnessed by the joint venture partners of the Papua LNG project, , as well as State agency representatives and the visiting delegates from JX Nippon, Minister Kua described the event as a major milestone for the Project.

He added that for the Government and the people of this country, this achievement was and is confirmation that we still enjoy the faith of our international partners and investors as a potential investment destination.

“It’s more than having a partner joining our Project: it’s a very big statement to the international investment community that, they can look at what JX Nippon is doing and follow suit,” stated the Minister.

“The Government of Papua New Guinea stand fully behind this Project, we have supported the operator TotalEnergies to do what they have to do, to move this Project forward through the Front End Engineering Design (FEED) phase and eventually Final Investment Decision (FID),” he added.

Sharing the Minister’s sentiments, Senior Vice President for TotalEnergies Asia Pacific Mr Julien Pouget, noted that the transfer was a way to harmonise the participating interests in the Papua LNG and the PNG LNG projects.

“We are not only welcoming JX Nippon into the Papua LNG project, but through JX, we are welcoming Japan,” he said.

“It’s a very important milestone in the Project and a good basis to progress marketing, with Japanese buyers and to progress financing from Japanese financiers,” he added.

“PNG is not only gifted with excellent natural resources, but is also extremely well positioned to take advantage and contribute to the energy transition in the Asia-Pacific region. PNG gas will replace coal, with a very positive impact on the planet,” he explained. 

Mr Pouget concluded his remarks by thanking the JV partners, Minister Kua and the Department of Petroleum for their support and encouragement.

Senior Vice President for JX Nippon Mr Hideo Kondo, affirmed the long-standing relationship between Japan and PNG, which is built on mutual trust, respect and compliance.

“Energy security, especially in relation to LNG, is a key issue of Japan and we are now very excited and honoured to be a part of the second LNG project in PNG. We believe JX participation, will further strengthen the relationship between both countries,” said Mr Kondo.

JX has been actively involved in PNG since 1990 and will continue to work closely with the PNG government and partners, to ensure the Papua LNG project delivers long-term benefits, to key stakeholders and most importantly to the people and nation of PNG.

TEP PNG Acting Managing Director Mr Sang Ratnam acknowledged the continuous support of the Government of PNG and various state agencies in realizing this transfer in record time and further asserted that the Minister’s approval today is once again a testament to the strong support the Government has for the Papua LNG project.  

Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu informed participants of the High Level Seminar Workshop on Connect Papua New Guinea that projects under the program are designed to improve connectivity to our people in rural areas.

In his closing remarks, Chief Secretary Pomaleu said access to quality basic services for our more than 1,000,000 people living in rural areas is often very difficult and the difficulties that they face is very different from those who live in towns and cities.

Chief Secretary Pomaleu said inherent in processes for the successful completion of the program is the consideration to establish new systems and processes at the planning, design, procurement and quality management stages.

He emphasised that what the government wants to achieve is to unlock opportunities for thousands if not millions of our rural population.

“The people need to be connected in someway to important services delivery points right across the country,” Mr Pomaleu said.

“Sometimes, what we take for granted in the towns and cities and things that requires some effort to get to in rural areas.

“All going governments, including this one have a moral responsibility in my view to connect our people. 

“To make it simple enough for them to access the important services, whether it is in education or health, whether it is in providing market opportunities for vegetables to be brought into the markets, enhancing their own abilities to access and finances to secure their own livelihoods in the manner that does not demean their human dignity.” 

Mr Pomaleu added that everyone is collectively responsible to ensure our fellow citizens have the same opportunities as us. 

He said that is why we are here this afternoon to talk through the important issues that inhibit the efficient deliver of services. Whether it is in delays or not getting the work done, indentifying important resourcing or awarding of contracts that have already been signed. 

The Chief Secretary then acknowledged everyone who participated and attended the seminar workshop.

He said it is an important workshop that provides an avenue to hear what the issues are that are affecting the program and each of us in our own responsible roles, see what we can do about it.

Presenters for the Seminar Workshop were Deputy Secretary of Department of National Planning & Monitoring, Secretary for Department of Works & Highways David Wereh, Managing Director of PNG Forest Authority John Mosoro, Acting Secretary Department of Finance Sam Penias, Acting Secretary Department of Justice & Attorney General Nicodemus Mosoro, Secretary for Department of Treasury Andrew Oaeke, Infrastructure Specialist, Asia Development Bank PNG Resident Mission Masayoshi Ono and Local Contractor, Jennifer Brown.

K92 Mining Inc. is pleased to announce production results for the second quarter (“ Q2 ”) of 2023 at its Kainantu Gold Mine in Papua New Guinea, of 30,794 oz AuEq or 27,405 oz gold, 1,526,547 lbs copper and 34,001 oz silver, representing an increase of 18% from Q2 2022 and 43% from Q1 2023, respectively. Sales during the quarter were 28,141 oz gold, 1,657,115 lbs copper and 36,253 oz silver.

Underground mine performance strengthened significantly after early April, which was impacted by an area of localized challenging ground conditions. Long hole stoping performed to design, with mining focusing on Kora’s K1 and K2 veins, and Judd’s J1 Vein. During the quarter, 10 levels were mined for a total of 109,155 ore tonnes mined, and the mill head grade averaged 9.23 g/t AuEq or 8.20 g/t gold, 0.66% copper and 11.56 g/t silver. Mining on Kora was conducted on the 1130, 1150, 1170, 1205, 1265, 1285, 1305 and 1325 levels, and Judd on the 1235 and 1325 levels.

In May, a major milestone was achieved; the commissioning of the final component of the Stage 2A Plant Expansion resulting in the doubling of rougher flotation circuit capacity. After commissioning, the process plant recorded a significant increase in metallurgical recoveries for gold and copper. In June, the first full month of the Stage 2A Expansion being fully commissioned, recoveries averaged 93.0% for gold and 92.9% for copper. Recoveries for Q2 averaged 92.4% for gold and 92.8% for copper, the highest since Q4 2021 for both gold and copper, and significantly higher than the 2022 average of 90.4% for gold and 90.5% for copper. Total ore processed during the quarter was 112,471 tonnes. With the Stage 2A Plant Expansion now commissioned, optimization efforts are underway, including to increase throughput that we believe has the potential to be materially greater than its nameplate design.

As previously reported, underground mining operations were briefly suspended on June 28 following an underground vehicular incident (see June 28, 2023 press release - K92 Mining Reports Mine Accident Resulting in Two Fatalities ). There was limited impact to surface activities and surface stockpiles were treated during the suspension. Underground mining operations resumed on July 6 (see July 6, 2023 press release - K92 Mining Resumes Mining Operations at Kainantu Gold Mine ).

Notably, production and cost guidance for 2023 remain unchanged, with the second half of 2023 expected to be our strongest in terms of production, and 2023 production being within the lower half of the guidance range (as previously disclosed). The anticipated stronger production for the second half of 2023 is based on an expected significant increase to our operational flexibility and stope sequencing.

Note - Gold equivalent for Q2 2023 is calculated based on: gold $1,976 per ounce; silver $24.13 per ounce; and copper $3.85 per pound. Gold equivalent for Q1 2023 is calculated based on: gold $1,890 per ounce; silver $22.55 per ounce; and copper $4.05 per pound. Gold equivalent for 2022 is calculated based on: gold $1,793 per ounce; silver $22 per ounce; and copper $3.95 per pound. Gold equivalent for Q4 2022 is calculated based on: gold $1,728 per ounce; silver $21 per ounce; and copper $3.63 per pound. Gold equivalent for Q3 2022 is calculated based on: gold $1,730 per ounce; silver $19 per ounce; and copper $3.51 per pound. Gold equivalent for Q2 2022 is calculated based on: gold $1,870 per ounce; silver $23 per ounce; and copper $4.32 per pound.

John Lewins, K92 Chief Executive Officer and Director, stated, “The second quarter of 2023 has demonstrated that we have moved beyond the localized geotechnical challenges encountered in the second half of Q1, and the initial part of Q2, with the operation delivering near-budget production and showing that Kainantu production is well positioned for the balance of 2023. As we have been guiding since the beginning of the year, the second half of 2023 is expected to be our strongest, driven by stope sequence and operational flexibility significantly increasing through the remainder of the year.

We are very pleased with the performance of the process plant, especially after completing the final commissioning of the Stage 2A Plant Expansion in May. Plant recoveries in Q2 were the highest for both gold and copper since Q4 2021 and in June, the first full month after completing commissioning, strong recoveries of 93.0% for gold and 92.9% for copper were recorded. These recoveries are significantly higher than the 2022 average of 90.4% for gold and 90.5% for copper, and the gold recovery from June already achieved the recovery parameter of 93% in the Kainantu Integrated Development Plan economic study (see September 12, 2022 press release - K92 Mining Inc Announces Robust Kainantu Gold Mine Integrated Development Plan).

For the second half of the year, there is a tremendous amount of sense of anticipation in the Company. On the process plant, now that the Stage 2A Plant Expansion is complete, optimization efforts are underway to thoroughly test its recovery and throughput potential. We believe throughput has the potential to be notably above design nameplate. On mining, we continue to benefit from the arrival of more equipment, with a new jumbo scheduled to arrive this month and multiple long-term infrastructure projects that will drive efficiencies and boost operational flexibility such as the twin incline, also progressing well. We are also active in exploration, with our underground program currently drilling Kora Deeps and Judd South in addition to Kora and Judd. Surface exploration is drilling Judd, Judd South and Kora South, in addition to the A1 Porphyry. And lastly, the tender process for our major growth capital packages for the Stage 3 and 4 Expansions are well advanced and we look forward to providing an update near-term.”

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape expressed his enthusiasm, describing the signing of a memorandum-of-understanding (MOU) between RD Fishing Group (RDFG) of the Philippines and the Papua New Guinea Government as a “historic milestone for the country.”

The MOU was signed during a ceremony by RDFG, the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), and the Ministry of International Trade and Investment (MITI). Witnessing the signing were Prime Minister Marape, Minister for International Trade and Investment Hon. Richard Maru, State Enterprises Minister Hon. William Duma, and Fisheries Minister Hon. Jelta Wong.

Under the MOU, RDFG and the State will engage in negotiations to establish a fishing company in Madang. The primary objective of this agreement is to determine the commercial terms for RDFG and the State to form a joint-venture (JV) company responsible for fishing and processing all catches in a new cannery located within the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) in Madang, designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ).

A State Negotiating Team (SNT) has been appointed and granted a three-month period to finalise negotiations and present a mutually agreeable proposal to the National Executive Council. The successful outcome of these negotiations will pave the way for the establishment of the proposed new fishing company.

The SNT comprises distinguished members including Chairman Isaac Lupari, Deputy Chairman State Solicitor Daniel Ropalgarea, KCH Managing Director Dr. David Kavanamur, Minister for Labour and Employment Hon. Kessy Sawang, Madang Governor Hon. Ramsey Pariwa, NFA Managing Director Justin Ilakini, and International Trade and Investment Secretary Jacinta Warakai-Manua.

For the first time in Papua New Guinea’s history, a major fishing operation will be conducted in its waters by a renowned company utilising PNG-owned fishing vessels and employing local crew.

Prime Minister Marape stated, “This signifies a significant step toward the commercialisation of the tuna industry in our country. It is a monumental stride in exploring the untapped tuna reserves in our region, fostering employment opportunities, and driving economic growth across all sectors.”

He further acknowledged the dedication and vision of Hon. Richard Maru, Minister for International Trade and Investment, and Hon. Jelta Wong, Minister for Fisheries, and their teams, who have worked diligently behind the scenes to initiate and propel this endeavor forward.

“This represents our government’s unwavering commitment to formulating policies and advancing development agendas to maximise the benefits derived from both renewable and non-renewable resources since 2019,” added PM Marape.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has reiterated the need for major interventions by the government to save struggling State utilities companies PNG Power, Air Niugini and Water PNG, as he witnessed his Treasurer present a K200 million funding to Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) recently.

After a four-hour long meeting during which the Prime Minister was provided a full status report on the three State-owned enterprises, PM Marape said it was overdue that major efforts be put into these SOEs to help them equalise the community service obligation roles they have been playing with profit-making.

“State-owned enterprises have been carrying these community service obligations while operating under run-down infrastructure for too long,” said PM Marape.

“In our stocktake in the last four years since taking office, we have recognised that all we have been doing over the years has been putting on cosmetic dressing.

“But we need major by-passes, the way a surgeon carries out a by-pass on the heart. We need to keep these SOEs from sinking so we can be able to turn the efficiency of their businesses around.

“At the end of the Medium Term Development Plan IV, these SOEs must become fully self-sufficient and contributing to the economy in a much bigger way.

“And so the Government is privileged to give this K200 million.”

The Prime Minister said interventions for these utilities SOEs will be done utilising government policies such as the Public-Private Partnership to bring development partners on board.

The meeting today highlighted that, for Air Niugini, the main challenge facing the airline is an aging aircraft fleet that has been causing flight disruptions and impacting revenue. For PNG Power, it is the loss in revenue including from huge debts the company is owed; and for Water PNG, funding constraints have been named as its biggest challenge.

Recommendations were made for the securing of a couple of aircraft to start a new fleet, something that is looking achievable even at this point.

At the meeting with the Prime Minister was Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey; Minister for SOE Hon. William Duma; and directors and management of KCH.

Minister Duma thanked the Government for the funding and commended Prime Minister Marape for his “never-ending support of KCH since 2019”, specifically highlighting that it was PM Marape and his government who supported amendments to the enabling KCH legislation to enable some of the rehabilitative work that have since gone into the struggling SOEs.

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape expressed his support for the newly formed Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) today, heralding it as a significant milestone in the fight against corruption. The commission gained momentum with the recent arrival of three highly qualified and experienced ICAC Commissioners.

Recognising the devastating impact of rampant corruption on the nation’s progress, Prime Minister Marape has been an unwavering advocate for the establishment of ICAC since assuming office in May 2019. The culmination of these efforts led to the passage of the ICAC Bill in November 2020.

The three distinguished Commissioners are as follows: Mr. Andrew Forbes, Commissioner; Mr. Daniel Baulch, Deputy Commissioner of Operations and Technical Services; and Mr. Graham Gill, Deputy Commissioner of Prevention and Corporate Administration.

Commissioner Andrew Forbes brings over 30 years of legal expertise to his role and is a renowned legal professional from Australia. With a background in contentious disputes, disciplinary proceedings, and regulatory matters, his appointment significantly bolsters the Commission’s capabilities.

Deputy Commissioner Daniel Baulch, also hailing from Australia, boasts over 20 years of law enforcement experience, having previously served as a police officer with Victoria Police. His extensive investigative background will undoubtedly enhance the operational effectiveness of the Commission.

Deputy Commissioner Graham Gill, a distinguished professional from New Zealand, previously held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Corporate and Strategy with the New Zealand Serious Fraud Office. With 26 years of experience in prevention work and investigations, his invaluable insights will contribute to the success of ICAC.

“To ensure utmost impartiality, the Commissioners were selected under the oversight of Transparency International, led by Chairman Mr. Peter Aitsi, thereby alleviating concerns regarding Papua New Guineans leading ICAC,” emphasised Prime Minister Marape.

“The ICAC Appointments Committee comprised the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, Chief Justice, Chief Ombudsman, Public Service Commission Chairman, and Transparency International, providing comprehensive oversight.

“I assure the people of Papua New Guinea that ICAC will receive full support and resources to ensure its seamless operation. This government will never compromise on ICAC’s integrity and effectiveness.”

Prime Minister Marape clarified that ICAC’s establishment does not diminish the important work carried out by the Ombudsman Commission, the Police, or other anti-corruption agencies. Instead, ICAC will focus on strengthening the fight against corruption by providing teeth and bite to combat this pervasive problem.

Corruption, a pressing concern plaguing the nation, poses a significant threat to the economy. In order to achieve the vision of a K200 billion economy, eradicating corruption becomes paramount. Complemented by the Whistle Blowers’ Act (2020) and the Proceeds of Crime Act (2022), ICAC will be an instrumental force in our battle against corruption.

“ICAC’s establishment is a cause for celebration as we approach Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of nationhood in 2025. This milestone has been made possible through the support of Members of Parliament who recognise the damage caused by corruption in our country,” stated Prime Minister Marape.

The Prime Minister emphasised that ICAC alone cannot effectively combat corruption. He urged citizens at all levels, including Local-Level Governments (LLGs), districts, provinces, and the public service, to report cases of corruption.

“They now have an added opportunity to bring these allegations, with evidence, to ICAC,” he said.

Prime Minister Marape expressed his concern regarding serious allegations of corruption shared on social media without corresponding evidence reported to appropriate authorities.

“We all have a responsibility to fight corruption for the betterment of our beloved country by reporting cases. A stronger economy can only be realised if we eliminate the deep-rooted corruption that plagues our society,” highlighted Prime Minister Marape.

Prime Minister Marape issued a stern warning to political and public service leaders, emphasising that ICAC’s arrival places them under intense scrutiny. ICAC will relentlessly combat corruption, and he advised against soliciting or accepting bribes, urging everyone to earn an honest day’s pay.

On October 16th & 17th, 2023, Papua New Guinea will take center stage at the inaugural Papua New Guinea–Asia Investment Conference in Hong Kong, organized by the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum with support of, and in partnership with, the National Government.

PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum (“the Chamber”) President Anthony Smarè made these remarks when responding to Prime Minister Marape’s public announcement of this new investment promotion conference in Hong Kong.

“The Chamber is proud to host this important inaugural event with the support of, and in partnership with, the National Government. This event will provide PNG with the best opportunity yet to harness potential prospects for investment from the China and greater Asia region”.

“We commend PM Marape and his Government for embracing the opportunity to promote investment engagement with existing important investors and trade partners in China, Japan, Korea, India and other Asian markets through this inaugural PNG Asia Investment Conference on the 16th & 17th October 2023 in Hong Kong.

“This new Hong Kong conference will complement the investment promotion that we do with mainly Western investors through the PNG Mineral and Energy Investment Conference, which will again be held in Sydney on 10th to 13th December 2023.

“The PNG Asia Investment Conference will feature the Prime Minister and the Government outlining opportunities for investment and trade with PNG, success stories of Asian investment in PNG, and how PNG is powering Asian growth through supply of energy and other exports.

“There is significant interest in PNG from the Chinese market, and there has been a lot of interest from other Asian markets due to momentum generated by events such as the recent State visits by India’s Prime Minister Modi and Indonesian President Widodo, and Japan’s JX Nippon’s investment into Papua LNG announced last week.

“Since the announcement of this event by Prime Minister Marape last week, interest from companies within PNG and Asia to participate in this event has been phenomenal, with businesses lining up to confirm their attendance. This demonstrates the appetite for investment in, or trade with, PNG – an opportunity which PNG must take advantage of.

“I call on all Asian investors who have investments in PNG, or PNG companies that trade with Asia, to register for their attendance and exhibitions booths now, as space is limited to only 500 attendees. It will be a unique opportunity to share and engage on success stories and opportunities for Asian investment in PNG and for enhancing and expanding trade and export opportunities with giant Asian markets such as China, India, Japan, and Korea.”

Over 500 delegates are expected to be present on both days of the event – which is testament to the appetite for investment in PNG.

The Chamber looks forward to working with the Government to ensure a successful PNG-Asia Investment Conference come October.

Organizations who want to be a part of the inaugural PNG-Asia Investment Conference can register their interest with the chamber on proj3@pngchamberminpet.com.pg 

More information on the PNG Asia Investment Conference 16th & 17th October, Hong Kong, can be found at www.pngasiaconference.com 

Information on the PNG Resources and Energy Conference, 10th to 13th December, Sydney can be found at www.pngconference.com

Papua New Guinea's recently launched Medium Term Development Plan IV (MTDP 4) has been described as ambitious by the World Bank, stating that a developing economy like PNG needs a clear plan to address issues and grow the economy.

MTDP 4 stands as the roadmap for the Marape-Rosso Government in pursuit of its ambitious development agenda to incorporate the government's aspirations. Its aim is to grow the economy to K200 billion by doubling both the internal and external revenues and creating an additional one million jobs by 2030.

In a press conference during the launch of the World Bank's Country Economic Memorandum on the 11th of July 2023, The World Bank's country director for PNG and the Pacific Islands Steven Ndegwar said: “A World Bank PNG Country economic memorandum is currently being developed in close consultation with the Marape-Rosso Government's MTDP to support the National Government's objectives.”

According to the World Bank's latest report on the economy, Papua New Guinea can achieve sustainable economic growth if it can convert revenues from resource and mining projects into investments in the health, skills, and education of its population, and into improved infrastructures.

The Country Economic Memorandum for Papua New Guinea outlines that for PNG to better channel its natural resources into sustained economic growth, improvements to the business environment such as easing business entry and allowing greater competition could boost investment, drive positive economic impacts from extractives projects, and critically, share benefits more widely with Papua New Guineans.

When addressing the MTDP 4 Mr Ndegwar said: "It is a plan of what PNG needs, it provides an ambition to what this country can be and what the country does is provide a number of recommendations of how you can get there.”

"PNG also has the means to arrive at those outcomes so we have a problem, we have the opportunity, but we also have the means. And one of the means is that this country economic memorandum that provides the analysis helps you understand what some of the things are that can be done to achieve the goals of the MTDP," Mr Ndegwar said.

In relation, World Bank's Senior country economist for PNG Ruslan Piontkivsky highlighted that the agriculture sector as prioritised under MTDP 4 can be a launching pad for economic growth and job creation.

"Agriculture is a main employer overall, most people are employed in agriculture, what usually happens in other countries is recycled Structural Transformation."

"This is when people move slowly from agriculture into other sectors and industries and are employed within these sectors and productivity in those sectors are higher and as a result the economy overall becomes more productive."

"From what we observed, the structural transformation the moving between sectors is not happening sufficiently fast and moving very slowly," Mr Piontkivsky said.

Agriculture commercialization and downstream processing of materials are key objectives under the MTDP4.

Khwima Nthara, World Bank country manager for PNG, said that he believes the objective of the national government can be achieved if the value chain in specific sectors is developed.

"In terms of jobs you create in specific sectors, for example livestock but across the whole value chain in terms of the services of agriculture such as processing, packaging transportation, it is a sector that has huge potential for creating jobs as outlined in the MTDP and we've seen it in many countries," he said.

"There are countries that have developed and have created a lot of jobs through the agriculture sector so there's still a lot of potential in PNG to grow and create more jobs through agriculture," Mr Nthara said.

Reference:

1) Press Conference, launch of Country Economic Memorandum World Bank, PNG 11/07/2023, Port Moresby. [Paul Oeka/PNG Business News]

In starting a new era that has been proposed to see inclusive growth, the Papua New Guinea Government is planning to increase its economic incentives, according to its newly-released Medium Term Development Plan IV 2023–2027.

The plan envisions a “strategic shift” in budget allocations based on 12 specific priority areas of the government that is poised to see economic growth over the next four years.

The Plan, which was launched and released on 07 July 2023 by the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, suggests that the sternness within priority areas that the government has observed over the last three years may be replaced with more sustainable pathways.

In understanding the country's five-year blueprint, PNG Business News conducted a series of exclusive interviews prior to the launch of MTDP IV and sat down with some of the architects behind the success of the plan. These included the minister responsible for the delivery of the plan, Finance and National Planning chief Hon. Rainbo Paita, and Acting Secretary for Department of National Planning Mr Koney Samuel and his Deputy Mr Michael Kumung.

Minister Rainbo Paita's Overview of MTDP IV

From the outset, Minister Paita drew attention to memorable aspects of PNG's founding fathers and how they laid out a roadmap for the country towards achieving the government's vision 2050, as he opened his response with a simple but important phrase.

When ensuring the success and the approach of the plan, Minister Paita said, "Failing to have a plan is simply planning to fail."

"The country must have a plan, and the vision set by our founding fathers who put together vision 2050 were able to foresee and align a roadmap for the country," he said.

"It is critical that the country has a plan like MTDP IV to achieve its goals in the next 4 years so we can be on the right track towards reaching vision 2050," Paita said.

"The National Government has a plan to transform the economy and achieve a growth of becoming a K200-billion economy by 2030. In this exciting plan, Papua New Guinea will witness improvements in the level of services provided to the people by connecting our country’s main cities with our rural population through Roads, Infrastructure, Electricity, and Technology," Paita said.

"The vision statement of MTDP IV made by Prime Minister James Marape is to be economically independent and to achieve a K200 billion economy, and this plan helps translate that goal through direct interventions envisioned to see triggers that will enable growth."

"In paving a way for the government's plan, we must embark on embracing our national identity and take ownership of this plan," he said.

Paita hopes to see the government working together and striving to create a future where people can live and work outside main cities to strengthen the rural communities and help regional towns to shape their destiny.

In concluding, Minister Paita outlined that the implementation of MTDP IV will be measured through annual budget operations and will cost around K51 billion to be effectively implemented in which the department will conduct monitoring and evaluation of programs and projects in partnership with stakeholders from the private sector to promote the accountable and transparent implementation of the plan.

He added that Provincial Governments, their districts and LLGs (local-level governments) in all regions of the country will now adopt MTDP IV as a blueprint to create a better life for the people and to forge a better and more prosperous PNG by 2030, while targeting the development aspirations of Vision 2050.

MTDP IV Structure

The consultation, drafting, design and development of the plan was carried out by the Department of National Planning and Monitoring.

The Department is the only one mandated by the government to formulate development plans for the country, which includes programming, planning resource mobilisation, and budgeting.

When highlighting this aspect, the Acting Secretary for the Department, Mr Koney Samuel, briefly explained the progress and responsibilities in assuring the successful delivery of the current plan as well as the country's previous development plans.

"Our mandate is to formulate National Development Plans, mostly the medium-Term Development Plans for Papua New Guinea," he said.

"The MTDP I was launched in 2011 followed by MTDP II. However, MTDP II was not fully developed as it was a two-year strategy, thus the government went straight into MTDP III in 2018 which was a bridging plan aligned with the parliamentary cycle," Secretary Samuel said.

"We got 28 years to go and vision 2050 is our destiny. We must be smart, wise, fair, healthy and prosperous by 2050, as our aim is to be in the top 50 countries in terms of human development index and to be a middle-income country by 2030," he added.

"That's a massive challenge, but with the collective efforts of all Papua New Guineans and support of all the stakeholders, we can be able to achieve vision 2050," he said.

Priorities

In PNG's rural communities, agriculture remains the principle economic activity for 85 per cent of the rural population, and the government plans to transform this livelihood with the right level of investment provided through the MTDPs implementation process.

In this context the Deputy Secretary for Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Mr Michael Kumung, who played a significant role in the formulation process of MTDP IV, provided his insight by stressing the basic priorities of the plan.

Mr Kumung stated that the "MTDP IV is built around the priorities of the government and there are about 12 strategic priorities of the government. This priority incorporates all the high-level mantra statements in terms of the different sectors of our country, and how we want to institutionalise the aspirations of development for our country."

"One of the main priorities includes agriculture, which will be a driving force in pushing the agendas of the plan and at the local level, MTDP4 will establish a platform among producers, districts, government agencies and stakeholders, while making strategic investments in rural enterprise, SMEs, livestock, and fisheries productivity," Mr Kumung stated.

He added that the goal is to work together to achieve the government's priorities in connecting PNG, generating national wealth, creating jobs, and developing our economy by empowering the people in reducing unemployment, poverty, and inequality.

"We want to make sure that everyone has an improved quality of life and that will only come onboard if we have a plan that guides us," he said.

Launch of MTDP IV

On Friday the 7th of July, Papua New Guinea's Medium Term Development Plan IV 2023-2027 (MTDP 4) was launched in an extravagant array of national and cultural highlights to a full capacity at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby.

The launch signified the fourth visionary development strategy for the people of Papua New Guinea with the theme "National Prosperity Through Innovation and Structural Transformation.”

From start to finish, the much-anticipated plan was delivered in spectacular fashion, with Minister Paita present to launch and oversee the proceedings alongside Acting Secretary Samuel.

Those in attendance included the country's Prime Minister James Marape, as well as most members of Parliament, heads of department and stakeholders, who assembled to witness the launch of the plan.

Mr Marape highlighted that Papua New Guinea will engage in more economic discussions to grow the local economy while highlighting the 12 key strategic goals stipulated in the Medium-Term Development Plan IV.

Some of the key strategic goals highlighted were economic investment, connect png infrastructure, quality and affordable health care, quality education and skilled human capital, rule of law and justice, national security, national revenue and public finance management.

Furthermore, he said PNG experienced bigger Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth over the last 20 years as exports grew by 162%. However, the real employment for locals in the country grew by only 2%. Marape said the government is now focusing to relate to vision 2050 as the MTDP IV comes at a very interesting juncture of PNG’s life and progress, which is the 50th anniversary of the country.

The PM's keynote address went on stating that every Papua New Guinean deserves the right to make an impact no matter how great or how small, as the success of the MTDP IV is not dependent on the government alone.

"Let's change our future for a more sustainable society, economy, and environment for a brighter future for all. The MTDP IV belongs to all of us, it is our future so let's make it work," he ended.

The ceremony was finally capped off with a two-minute firework display to signify the launch and release of the much-anticipated plan.

Reference:

1) Exclusive interviews with Minister for Finance and Planning Hon. Rainbo Paita/ Koney Samuel Acting Secretary DNPM/ Deputy Secretary Michael Kumung DNPM. 05th July 2023 at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby [Paul Oeka/PNG Business News]

2) Launch of Medium-Term Development Plan IV APEC Haus Port Moresby, 07th July 2023. [Paul Oeka/PNG Business News]

With just under six weeks to the start of the inaugural Community Affairs and National Content Conference and Expo (CANCONEX), Landowner Groups and Landowner companies are being encouraged to ensure they register their participation.

When providing an update on preparations for CANCONEX2023, PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum President Anthony Smarè encouraged landowners to register for CANCONEX 2023, as it would be the perfect opportunity to share their experiences, learn from others, and make new connections to leverage off the next wave of opportunities in the resource sector.

“Since the announcement of CANCONEX, to take place from August 28th to 30th at the PNG University of Technology in Lae Morobe Province, an overwhelming number of participants and organizations from both public and private sectors have registered, which demonstrates the appetite for this forum, which is tailored to providing a platform for landowner economic participation to take centre stage.

Through the theme ‘Promoting National Participation for Sustainable Communities’, discussions on Community Affairs, Business Development, Local Contracting, National Content, Community Investment, Women & Youth Development, and Access to Finance are among topics which will be covered across the three-day event.

In addition to an exciting line up, the Chamber is also pleased to announce that the Chamber Landco Awards will be presented during CANCONEX, to acknowledge and celebrate the monumental achievements and initiatives of landowner companies and groups that promote sustainable development, community engagement, and shared value within the resources sector.

The awards will be for the following categories; 

1. Outstanding Landowner Company Shared Value Performance in 2023: This award acknowledges a landowner organization that has made significant economic and social progress in their communities during 2023. It recognizes their efforts in creating shared value, where both the company and the community benefit from their operations.
2. Outstanding Women's Contribution in the Resource Industry: This award recognizes the exceptional contribution of women's associations or groups within the resource industry. It highlights initiatives led by women that have positively impacted their community. This category aims to promote and celebrate gender diversity and inclusion in the sector.
3. Outstanding Local Workforce Training and Development Champion: This award acknowledges a landowner company that demonstrates a commitment to structured training programs and development opportunities for the local workforce. It recognizes their efforts in upskilling and empowering local individuals, fostering professional growth and career advancement within the resource industry.

The awards add even more significance to CANCONEX and is the perfect opportunity for landowner companies to shine once again. Applications for these awards is now open.

Major Landowner companies, services providers, and resource project developers will also be exhibiting their offerings across the three days of CANCONEX 2023.

A special 50% discount off the registration price is available to landowner representatives from project areas, who are endorsed by their respective project Community Affairs team.

Those wishing to participate are encouraged to register via www.canconex.com to secure their participation.

The Chamber looks forward to welcoming over 800 attendees from government policy makers, business houses, landowner companies as well as large representation from landowner groups from project areas at CANCONEX 2023.”