Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has warned that Papua New Guinea will not be immune from the ripple effects of global economic shocks stemming from recent United States (US) tariff hikes and has urged the country to remain vigilant as his government monitors and manages the situation. PM Marape said the sweeping tariff increases imposed by the United States on China and other key global economies represent a “tectonic shift in global trade and commerce” that will inevitably have downstream consequences for small, import dependent nations like Papua New Guinea. “These are not minor trade adjustments, this is a major global event. When the world’s number one economy imposes tariffs of over 200 per cent on the number two economy as well as all other economies, the entire global trading system is shaken. While we do not have a significant trade relationship with the United States, we are closely integrated with China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Australia— economies that are directly impacted,” PM Marape stressed. Mr. Marape said PNG’s Treasury Department, the Central Bank, and his own department are closely monitoring the situation and assessing the potential economic risks, particularly with regard to inflation and the rising cost of goods and services. “This is a time for our people to understand that there are strong global economic headwinds ahead. We must prepare for the possibility of price increases, supply chain disruptions, and investment slowdowns. But we also want to assure the country that we are managing our economy prudently and are focused on our national budget priorities,” he said. The Prime Minister acknowledged that some impacts may be unavoidable in the short term but expressed confidence in the medium-to-long-term outlook, citing over US$40 billion worth of resource projects in the pipeline. “In the next 10 years, we expect nearly $40 billion in foreign direct investments into our country through projects such as Papua LNG, Pasca A, P’nyang LNG, Wafi-Golpu, and potential progress on Frieda River and the Wildebeest LNG in Gulf and Maliu Oil in Central provinces. These are real projects, with real partners. Pasca and P’nyang are already signed, and Papua LNG is progressing with TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil. Porgera is operating now, and we shall close a better project agreement for Wafi-Golpu soon. These developments will underpin our economy for the next two decades and secure long-term economic stability,” he said. PM Marape also noted that while global conditions are beyond PNG’s control, the government is staying the course on fiscal consolidation. He added that the 2024 Final Budget Outcome will be released and will show our financial management in 2024 amidst difficult global conditions. “Unlike many peer economies struggling to attract capital, we have the largest multinationals operating here. Our job is to keep investor confidence high and ensure policy consistency. I am optimistic that despite the challenges of today, the future of Papua New Guinea remains bright,” he said.

After more than a decade, the Media Council of PNG (MCPNG) Media Awards return at a time when media has evolved dramatically, especially in the digital space. The Remington Group is proud to sponsor the Best Website category at the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) Media Awards, scheduled for May 3rd, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day. This award celebrates outstanding design, content, and engagement by a PNG-based online platform, recognizing excellence in digital journalism and storytelling. “The last time these awards were held, digital media was not even part of the conversation. It’ll be fascinating to see how far the industry has come. This year’s awards mark a new chapter for journalism in PNG, one that reflects where we are today and where we’re headed,” said Neville Choi, President of MCPNG. Remington Group, a long-standing leader in PNG’s technology and business solutions space, is supporting this milestone event as part of its broader commitment to national transformation and development. “Remington Group is driving Papua New Guinea’s future through innovative ICT, business, and document management solutions,” said Navin Raju, CEO of Remington Group. He said as they lead this transformation, it’s important to support their key partners—media being one of them. “We work closely with the media every week, and these awards are an opportunity to recognize their contributions and the vital role they play in our society,” Mr. Raju said. The MCPNG Media Awards celebrate excellence across journalism, radio, television, and digital platforms. With categories spanning investigative reporting, photography, production, and diversity in media, the awards aim to uplift standards, recognize talent, and inspire the next generation of storytellers.

In a significant gesture of compassion and commitment to rehabilitation, Prime Minister James Marape made an Easter visit to the Bomana Correctional Services on Monday 21st April. His visit included an inspection of the CS parade, followed by a presentation of gifts to detainees, aimed at fostering hope and renewal during this festive season. In his address, PM Marape emphasized the shared human experience of imperfection. “We are all equal. We are all prisoners of sin. There is no righteous person on earth. However, you have your purpose in the eyes of God Almighty,” PM Marape said. This message resonated with the attendees, highlighting the importance of redemption and personal growth. The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s vision to establish vocational centers within correctional institutions as a pathway forward for detainees wishing to further their education. “In prison, you can be empowered with knowledge, proper morals, improved ethics, and skills. This will enable you to become better citizens upon return to society,” PM Marape said. He introduced the concept of creating a prison industry, allowing inmates to engage in training for various trades such as carpentry, mechanics, and electrical work. “With their productivity, their sentences can be shortened. We aim to introduce better citizens to society, and as we approach our 50th anniversary, we must contribute to nation-building in every way we can,” he said. PM Marape also called upon the Public Solicitors’ office and the Solicitor General's office to expedite processes related to court wait times. “We are not your enemies, just as you are not our enemies,” he said. He recognized the unique challenges faced by female detainees, particularly those locked up due to domestic violence, assuring them that the government is actively looking into their issues. In summary, Prime Minister Marape’s visit to Bomana Correctional Services was a powerful reminder of the potential for transformation and the importance of compassion within the correctional system. “Through education and vocational training, the government aspires to empower detainees, fostering a renewed sense of hope and purpose,” PM Marape said.

Warmest wishes of peace, reflection and renewal says Hiri-Koiari Member Keith Iduhu in his Easter message to the people of Hiri-Koiari and Papua New Guinea. "To the people of Hiri-Koiari, and to the wider family of Papua New Guinea, as we mark this holy Easter weekend, I extend my warmest wishes of peace, reflection, and renewal to each of you.” “Easter is a time to remember the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who gave His life so that others may live. It is a time of solemn reflection, but also of deep hope.” "From the suffering of the cross came the triumph of the resurrection. From despair came renewal. From darkness came light.” “This message speaks deeply to the time we are living in.” “We have come through a difficult season as a nation," Mr. Iduhu said. He said in recent months, we have witnessed the erosion of trust in our institutions, the worsening cost of living, deepening hardship in our communities, and frustration over promises unfulfilled. " Many of our people are struggling to make ends meet. Others feel voiceless in their own country. There is grief, anger, and growing anxiety about where we are heading.” “Yet Easter reminds us not to give in to despair. It calls on us to look within and draw strength, courage, and purpose.” “Let this be a time for us not only to reflect on what has gone wrong, but to recommit ourselves to what must be made right," he said. Mr. Iduhu added that let us use this time to renew our resolve: • To stand for truth, justice, and accountability in all that we do. • To restore integrity in leadership and faith in government. • To work harder for the mothers in our markets, the students in our classrooms, and the rural families who still wait for basic services. • To rebuild a country not just of potential, but of real and shared progress. "As your Member for Hiri-Koiari, I remain committed to this cause. I will continue to advocate for policies that put people before politics, service before status, and principle before power.” “This Easter, let us come together as one people. Let us be resilient, hopeful, and unshaken in our belief that a better Papua New Guinea is possible.” “May the message of resurrection strengthen our spirit. May we move forward in unity, hope, and love.” “God bless you.” “God bless Hiri-Koiari. And God.”

Prime Minister James Marape led a ground-breaking ceremony at Bereina Station to officially launch the major redevelopment of the Hiritano Highway, a key national infrastructure project that will link Port Moresby to Kerema and unlock the economic potential of Papua New Guinea’s southern corridor. The ceremony, organised by the Department of Works & Highways, brought together national leaders, provincial governors, district members, traditional leaders, and the people of Central and Gulf provinces to witness the commencement of this transformative road infrastructure project. The upgrade is part of the Southern Corridor (Hiritano Highway NR001) Major Works Contract, under the broader Connect PNG programme, which dedicates 5.6% of the national budget annually towards infrastructure connectivity. PM Marape described the Hiritano Highway as “one of the most economically significant roads in the country,” noting that its completion would directly stimulate growth in agriculture, fisheries, tourism, forestry, and industrial development in the region. “We are not just rehabilitating a road; we are opening an economic corridor that will transform the lives of thousands of people from Central, Gulf and neighbouring provinces." “This highway will not only link communities but also generate real income opportunities for our people,” PM Marape said. He reaffirmed that his government would allocate K300–K400 million for the full rehabilitation of the highway and committed to ensuring the project is completed with urgency. PM Marape took the opportunity to commend local leadership, particularly the Member for Kairuku and Vice Minister for Works Peter Isoaimo, for his persistent advocacy for the road. “You are not a facebook leader." "You are on the ground, with your people in schools, in hospitals, and in communities." "That is what this country needs,” PM Marape said. He also recognised Central Governor Rufina Peter for her passionate and constructive leadership, praising her for raising critical issues affecting the safety and prosperity of women and children, and proposing practical policy alternatives. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of cooperation between provincial leaders, noting the symbolic unity of Governor Peter and Gulf Governor Chris Haiveta sharing the platform together. “It is pleasing to see our leaders from Central and Gulf standing side by side." "This is the type of partnership we need to deliver national development without leaving anyone behind,” he said.

The Station of the Cross is a significant religious event for Christians that is currently taking place in Port Moresby and many other centers around the country today on Good Friday. The event involves a procession with the Cross being carried by the Faithfuls, starting from St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Boroko and will end at the Sacred Heart Parish in Hohola. The Station of the Cross is led by the Archdiocese of Port Moresby and began at around 5am at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Boroko. The Station of the Cross will go through 14 stations around the city and each station depicts the events in the Passion of Christ from his condemnation to his death on the cross and his burial. Hundreds of City residents especially dedicated Catholics took part in the journey at 5am and are now at the 9th Station (Vision city). The 14 stations of the cross have each catholic parish stationed there to receive the cross and includes: Jesus is condemned to death Jesus carries his cross Jesus falls the first time Jesus meets his mother Simon helps carry the cross Veronica wipes the face of Jesus Jesus falls the second time Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem Jesus falls the third time Jesus is stripped of his garments Jesus nailed to the cross Jesus dies on the cross Jesus is removed from the cross Jesus is laid in the tomb The journey of the cross used one side of the road around the city and participants included men, women, children, youths, even elderly men and women came out in numbers to carry the cross. To the many Christians in the country and around the world Easter is very important to them as it is about Jesus Christ’s journey on earth and the crucifixion to set mankind free from the bondage of sin.

Cricket PNG has announced that the PNG Garamuts Under-19 Men’s Team will compete in the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup (50-Over) East Asia Pacific Division 1 Qualifier in Japan later this month. Cricket PNG said that it follows on from the PNG Garamuts win in the EAP Division 2 Qualifier in Samoa in 2024, where they dominated the event. The winner of the tournament qualifies for the prestigious ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup. “The qualifier matches will take place in Sano, Japan from 24 to 29 April, against Japan and Fiji, who qualified by finishing 2nd and 3rd in the previous Division 1 Qualifier in Darwin in 2023." "No doubt the event will bring out the best in all teams, but the PNG Garamuts are ready to make a mark on the international stage." The upcoming East Asia Pacific (EAP) Division 1 Qualifier in Japan is a pivotal tournament, and the PNG Garamuts have prepared well, including the recent 10-day tour to Queensland, with the support of the Australian government’s PacificAus Sports program and the Queensland Cricket MOU signed with Cricket PNG earlier this year." Cricket PNG said in the lead-up to this crucial event, the Garamuts have been under the guidance of their coaching team, including new High-Performance Manager, Tim Nielsen. “Nielsen brings a wealth of experience to the team, with a proven track record in elite-level cricket coaching, being the Australian Team Coach from 2007 to 2011, and South Australia CA High Performance Manager for over 8 years." "His leadership is set to provide the team with the expertise needed for the demanding qualifying competition ahead." "He joins the Garamuts’ Coach, Kila Pala, whose extensive knowledge of this group of young players will be key in shaping the team’s performance." "In addition, the Garamuts are supported by Richard Leka as the Team Manager,” Cricket PNG said. “We are proud of the Garamuts team selected for this important competition. With the leadership of Kila Pala and the addition of Tim Nielsen to the coaching team, we are confident the Garamuts will be well-prepared to represent PNG on the world stage. We’re also pleased to have the support of Harry Bourne from Lindsay Trigar Physiotherapy in Brisbane, ensuring the players stay fit and healthy throughout the tournament,” said Michael Harrison, Chair of Cricket PNG.

Major business houses including banks will be closed during the long Easter Weekend. BSP Financial Group Limited has advised its customers that all BSP Branches will be closed on Friday 18th April and Monday 21st April. Normal business operations will resume on Tuesday 22nd April. The National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) also put out a public notice that all its branches will be closed on Friday 18, April and Monday 21, April 2025. “Normal operations will resume on Tuesday 22, April 2025,” Nasfund said. Nasfund Contributors Savings and Loan society stated that all NCSL offices will be closed on Friday 18, April and Monday 21 April to observe Easter as a gazette public holiday. “We encourage members to utilize digital Servcices, including MyNCSL and Mobil USSD (*628#) to access savings and loan accounts. To avoid inconvenience, we kindly urge you to complete any necessary transactions early, before Friday. This will help ensure your transactions are processed in a timely manner,” NCSL stated. According to a circular released by the Department of Personnel Managment the following dates are declared as Public Holidays for the Easter Period throughout the country as confirmed by Circular Instructions No. 14 of 2024 on public holidays for this year 2025, Good Friday – 18 April 2025 Easter Saturday-19 April 2025 Easter Sunday- 20 April 2025 Easter Monday – 21 April 2025 The Circular said that agency heads can use their discretion to allow staff to knock-off early for the long Easter Weekend.

The Public is advised that a Liquor restriction will be in force in the National Capital District during the Easter Holiday period on the following days. Good Friday 18 April and, Easter Monday 21 April 2025. The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) stated that it will be trading as usual on Saturday 19, April and normal business operations will resume on Tuesday 22, April 2025. The following classes of licensed premises and permit holders will be affected by the ban. Storekeepers Bottle shops Dealers Taverns Public bars in both limited hotels and publicans Holders of cabaret permit Other categories of licensed premises exempted from this Ban are: Restaurants-where liquor is taken as part of the meal by diners and guests Clubs-Restricted to members and their guests only Limited hotels and publicans-where liquor will be restricted to diners, lodgers, and their guests only “All operators are warned that surveillance operations will be carried out during this period and premises found defying this notice will be dealt with accordingly. NCDC anticipates the cooperation of everyone concerned,” NCDC stated.

As we commemorate Easter in this 49th year since our country’s independence, I ask each and every one of us to pause and reflect on the life, sacrifice, and message of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, says, PNG Prime Minister (PM) James Marape. PM Marape said that Easter is a sacred reminder of the road to Calvary—a journey Christ took not for Himself, but for the salvation of all mankind. “Though he was the Creator and King of the universe, He chose to be born in humility, live a simple life, and walk a lonely road to the Cross for the redemption of our sins. His life and death embody the true heart of leadership: selflessness, love, compassion, and forgiveness. Today, in a time when our nation stands at a crossroads—divided too often by political toxicity, personal differences, and economic challenges—we must return to those same Christian principles. Christ’s example teaches us to be tolerant, forgiving, loving, and inclusive. These values are not outdated; they are timeless. They are what make us truly human and truly Papua New Guinean. This Easter, I call on our people to reject division and embrace unity. Our nation needs:  Unity more than division Progress more than regression Forgiveness more than hatred Hope more than hostility As we mark this final Easter before our 50th Independence Anniversary, let us come together in a spirit of oneness—caring for each other, carrying one another’s burdens, and collectively carrying the cross of our country,” PM Marape said. He said this is not rocket science, this is not impossible, it simply requires a shift in attitude, a return to the heart. “Let me remind us that in Leviticus 25, the Bible declares the 50th year as a Year of Jubilee— a sacred time of reset, restoration, forgiveness, and freedom. According to Scripture, it is a time when debts are forgiven, captives are released, land is returned, and lives are given a fresh start. Our national 50th year officially begins on 16 September 2025 and ends on 15 September 2026. During this sacred season, the Government will lead a national reset—whether in public service reform, provincial governance, or in our wider effort to take back PNG economically, fight corruption, and restore law and order,” PM Marape said.

On the 19th of this month, which falls this Saturday. The country's currency will officially turn 50 years old. It will be a nostalgic moment, those who were present on the day of its launching will reflect on its journey and how far it has come. For Toea Chan, son of late former Prime Minister and First Finance Minister Sir Julius Chan, the date is even more special and of deep sentimental value and significance. It is the date and year of his birth, and he was named after the currency. Reflecting on turning 50 alongside the country's currency, Toea Chan said it is an honor celebrating his birth date with the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG). “I was looking forward to celebrating with my late father who was instrumental in setting up our financial institutions and naming our currency. Unfortunately, that cannot be, but his legacy will always live on." I am very humbled to be named "TOEA." I was born on the 19th of April 1975. The day my father introduced our currency "KINA & TOEA." During the ceremonial launching, whilst addressing the crowd at Sir John Guise Stadium, a telegram was sent to him. He was discreetly interrupted. “Mr. Chan, your wife Stella has given birth to your fourth child, a son at Nonga Hospital in Rabaul, East New Britain Province. "My name was proclaimed and given by our first Prime Minister Grand Chief Rt. Hon. Sir Michael Somare and our first Governor General General Sir John Guise on live radio broadcast to the nation that same day. The Minister for Finance's wife has just given birth to a baby boy, and he shall be known as TOEA," Toea Chan said his parents were overwhelmed and gracefully accepted the name TOEA. Toea is a large shell mainly used by the Papuan people for trade. While Kina shells were used by the Highlands people for trade. To unite both the coastal and Highlands people of Papua New Guinea it was unanimously decided that PNG's currency be named Kina and Toea. "Being the youngest child, and son, the name TOEA was given, being smaller or lowest denominator of our currency namely the "One Toea" coin. Therefore, Toea too, can always aspire to be higher. TOEA also fitted in well with our family's Chinese Heritage - the word "toi" in Taishanese and Chinese means "boy", so it was perfect,” Toea Chan explained further why he was named "TOEA." He said Prior to his father's passing, a big 50th Birthday celebration was planned to take place at Huris, Namatanai District, New Ireland Province. "That is no longer to be, I have found comfort within myself, that now, it is my duty to celebrate my day in Honor of my father,” he said. Toea Chan described himself as a " Living Currency" and basks with much joy and humility at the fact that his entry into this world was predestined through fate and reasons only known by God. Toea is grateful for his parents and the life they gave him. " My father was my mentor, my idol, my protector and my shield. I am my father's son and his legacy lives on within me. Hence my given name Julius Toea Chan. I will inequivalently reciprocate the next 50 years of my life on the 19th of April every year to honor my father, Papa blo Kina na Toea, and the last Man Standing my father, The Rt. Hon Grand Chief Sir Julius Sungmen Chan."

Great news for fuel consumers, the Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (“ICCC”) has announced that new retail fuel price for this month have decreased in Port Moresby and all other centers as off Tuesday, 8th of April 2025. ICCC said that for this month, the Indicative Retail Prices (IRPs) for petrol, diesel, and kerosene will all decrease on average throughout PNG, which is consistent with the movements in the international crude oil prices. “The decrease in average crude oil prices in March 2025 was mainly attributed to lower demand caused by global trade tensions and the United States Tariffs. The decrease was further exacerbated by market sentiments on plans to increase crude oil supply by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+). The domestic retail fuel prices (IRPs) for this month are inclusive of the Import Parity Prices (IPPs) or the imported costs for each petroleum product, domestic sea and road freight rates for the second quarter of 2025, the approved annual wholesale and retail margins for 2025 and the Goods and Services Tax (GST), including the applicable excise duties, among other parameters,” ICCC stated. As a result of adding all the various cost components mentioned above, the maximum retail price movements for petrol, diesel and kerosene in Port Moresby will change as follows: Petrol price in April is K4.29 a decrease from March fuel price of K4.43 Diesel price in April is K4.01 a decrease from March fuel Price of K4.16 Kerosene price in April is K3.72 a decrease from March fuel Price of K3.90 Retail prices in all other designated centers will change according to their quarterly approved domestic freight rates for the second quarter of 2025, and their respective annual retail margins for this year. For all other centers, the maximum retail prices for each regulated petroleum product will change on average consistent with the changes observed for Port Moresby. “As part of the ICCC’s enforcement and compliance of fuel prices, the ICCC Officers will conduct inspections to all service stations to ensure prices of declared petroleum products comply with the allowable maximum prices. Whilst retailers may choose to set fuel prices on their pumps to one decimal place, the ICCC will continue to set the maximum price to 2 decimal places. No fuel pump operator should charge above the Indicative Retail Price for this month’s price regardless of the number of decimal places. This is to ensure compliance with the Prices Regulation Act under which the maximum prices of declared petroleum products are set. Retailers who are displaying prices to 1 decimal place are urged by the ICCC to round the prices down to ensure prices are within the allowable indicative retail prices,” ICCC said. ICCC added that their Inspectors will continue to conduct spot checks to ensure on-going compliance by retail fuel operators. “Consumers are advised to report any instances of overcharging by retailers through the ICCC’s Consumer Protection Division on telephone number 312 4600, or by contacting our Regional Offices closest to you,” ICCC concluded.