Papua New Guinea’s Economy is set to grow by 4.7 percent in 2025, well above its historical average, driven by rising gold and copper production and a strong recovery in agriculture. But amid global commodity price volatility and persistent domestic challenges, the country’s long-term prosperity will depend, in part, on improving the critical agricultural sector. The latest Papua New Guinea (PNG) Economic Update released today by the World Bank, highlights the country’s resilience amid global uncertainty. The World Bank stated that the report credits strong performance in both the resource and non-resource sectors alongside early gains from fiscal reforms and monetary tightening. “Despite global headwinds, PNG is charting a path forward. Higher gold production and renewed momentum in agriculture improving productivity, connecting smallholders to markets and attracting private investment, agriculture can become powerful engine for job creation, export growth and poverty reduction,” said Reshika Singh, World Bank Senior Economist for PNG. She said a special focus in this year’s report makes the economic cases for transforming PNG’s agriculture sector, which supports the livelihoods of over 85 per cent of the population. “The analysis shows that by improving productivity, connecting smallholders to markets and attracting private investment, agriculture can become a powerful engine for job creation, export growth and poverty reduction,” she said. “Investing in agriculture in not just smart economics, it is about creating jobs, improving lives, and building resilience. With the right investments and reforms, PNG’s farmers can help lead the country’s next phase of development,” said Khwima Nthara World Bank Group Country Manager for PNG. World Bank stated that to unlock this potential the report recommends boosting smallholder productivity through improve seeds, farming practices and extension services, scaling up investments in value chains by enhancing infrastructure and post-harvest processing, and creating a strong enabling environment through fairer land access arrangements and better public-private partnership. “The report finds that the country’s fiscal performance continues to improve as PNG’s fiscal deficit narrowed to 3.2 percent of GDP in PNG. However, risks remain, including volatility in global commodity prices, foreign exchange shortage, and growing climate related threats. The report calls for continued fiscal consolidation, deeper structural reforms, and smarter investments in education and health to sustain growth and stability. If fiscal and structural reforms stay on track, PNG could achieve a balanced budget by 2027 and shift towards a more inclusive, diversified economy. This transformation must be anchored not just in what lies beneath the ground, but in the country’s fertile land and entrepreneurial people. This represents a pathway to reduce poverty, empower women and youth and promote broader stability,” said Anuja Kar, World Bank Senior Agricultural Economist.

The Founder of CPL Group Sir Mahesh Patel, OBE has been inducted into the SME Awards PNG Business Hall of Fame. CPL Group stated that the Award was presented at the TISA Bank SME Breakfast with the Prime Minister on Friday 27th June, at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, by the Prime Minister himself James Marape, to Ajay Patel, representing Sir. Mahesh. "It is both a great honour and a deeply personal privilege to stand before you today on behalf of my father, Sir Mahesh Patel, as he is inducted into the Papua New Guinea Business Hall of Fame. This award is not just a tribute to one man—it is a celebration of the journey that so many of you in this room understand intimately: the leap of faith from an idea to a business, from a lone vision to building something that impacts thousands. And I am proud that I was intimately involved with him for over 5 years learning, arguing and jointly agreeing on various projects - it was both challenging and fun,” Ajay said in his acceptance speech. He said over 40 years ago, his father arrived in Papua New Guinea from Fiji with little more than determination, an entrepreneurial spark, and a strong sense of purpose. “From that seed, and the ever-strong support of my mother, Lady Usha, grew CPL Group—now the largest retail network in the country—built not just through business acumen, but through deep relationships with communities, employees, and partners across PNG. He has always said that the greatest legacy is not the size of your enterprise, but the number of lives you uplift along the way. That is why this recognition means so much to him—because it is not just about success, but about service and to the SME community—especially the rising generation of innovators and risk-takers—this award serves as a powerful reminder that the path may be long, but with perseverance, purpose, and people at your heart, greatness is within reach. On behalf of my father, thank you for this incredible honour. Thank you for believing in his journey and thank you for continuing to believe in what’s possible here in Papua New Guinea,” he said.

NCSL Savings and Loan is excited to announce the launch of its very first podcast series, "The Wokabaut Tokabaut Show." NCSL stated that this series aims to keep NCSL’s members, its partner employers and the general public informed and up to date with information about its products and services in an engaging and accessible format. “As the financial business landscape evolves, keeping members informed is more important than ever. The 'Wokabau Tokabaut' podcast series offers exclusive insights, expert discussions, and valuable updates all in one convenient platform. Whether it's industry trends, financial guidance, workplace best practices, or key announcements, this podcast is members go-to source for the latest developments. “We wanted a fresh and innovative way to connect with our members and employers,” said Evelove Farapo, Team Leader Marketing & Communications. “With ‘Wokabaut Tokabaut,’ we are breaking traditional communication barriers and ensuring that vital information reaches our audience in a way that's relevant, engaging and fun,” NCSL said. NCSL said the new episodes are played regularly and will be streaming on NCSL YouTube Page and website, making it easy for listeners to tune in whenever and wherever they like. “The podcast is hosted by Cullighan Tanda. The inaugural episode started with a focus on digital services and highlighted MyNCSL Web and Mobile App platforms, showcasing new features designed to enhance financial convenience as discussed with Gila Ebenosi, Head of Digital at NCSL. It’s important that our contributors take advantage of these digital services to cut back on the legwork of visiting branches and ensuring accessibility to NCSL services anytime, anywhere," emphasizes Ebenosi. NCSL added that it is accessible on NCSL’s YouTube page and other preferred platforms, allowing members to stay informed and engaged with the latest developments and can comment for your preferred topics of discussion. “The podcast aims to make NCSL’s products and services more accessible, understandable and convenient for all members. We appreciate our members, employers and listeners for your support and encourage you to follow us on our YouTube page to stay updated and join the conversation on the Wokabaut Tokabaut. Show,” NCSL said.

PNG Ports Limited had the opportunity to network, build on existing partnerships, and discuss ideas during the recent 40th Australia PNG Business Forum & Trade Expo held at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby city. PNG Ports stated that for them, the Event theme: "Securing the Future of Investments – Stori Bilong Yumi: From Shells to Artificial Intelligence" – resonated with their business and how far they have come since Independence to one that is embracing the potential of modern technology. "Our Chief Executive Officer, Neil Papenfus, speaking as a panelist during the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) round table discussion, highlighted PNG Ports’ commitment to PNG's growth and development over the last 50 years. He shared valuable insights on the role of State-Owned Enterprises in driving economic growth and attracting investment in the country. Our exhibition booth also showcased our achievements and outlined our plans as PNG’s trade gateway," PNG Ports said.

PNG Ports Limited will be the Gold Sponsor of the upcoming 2nd PNG Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Summit. The Summit will be hosted by the Department of International Trade and Investment from August 30th - September 3rd, 2025. "As the nation’s Port Authority and a State-Owned Enterprise, the sponsorship marks our commitment towards PNG’s economic development. PNG Ports is a key player in the SEZ agenda connecting SEZ’s to the global market through the provision of port facilities, ensuring the import of raw materials and the export of finished goods. PNG Ports owns and manages 15 strategically located ports which serve as trade gateways facilitating the movement of over 99% of PNG’s total trade volumes," PNG Ports stated. The Port of Lae – PNG’s largest and busiest seaport – which handles about 60% of these cargo volumes, is now being developed into an industrial park to serve as a one-stop hub for all stakeholders in the supply chain. "As a result, the Lae Port and industrial park are set to become the national economic engine and key enabler of trade, industry and investment. For PNG Ports, the Lae Industrial stands at the heart of opportunity. Its direct access to resource-rich regions, its proximity to Asia-Pacific markets, and its role in servicing the Highlands and Momase supply chains make it a natural hub for SEZ development, supporting large-scale industrial growth, " PNG Ports said. PNG Ports added that no single entity can drive the SEZ agenda, hence PNG Ports stands ready to collaborate and build the pathways for trade, prosperity, and a stronger future.

The National Airline Air Niugini Limited participated in 40th Australia PNG Business Forum and Trade Expo in at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby this week from the 23rd to 25 June 2025. The airline stated that Air Niugini team showcased a wide range of products and services at an interactive booth, highlighting Air Niugini’s commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s business sector. "This year’s forum marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea, serving as a premier platform for dialogue, investment, and collaboration. With the theme “Securing the Future of Investments - Stori Bilong Yumi: From Shells to Artificial Intelligence,” the event reflects on how trade and business have evolved—from traditional exchanges to today’s digital, innovation-driven economies. The program features discussions on challenges, emerging opportunities, and key sectors including agriculture, commodities, infrastructure, technology, climate change, mining, and more, "Air Niugini said. The Airline CEO, Mr. Gary Seddon, participated in a roundtable on State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) sharing updates on Air Niugini's operations, performance, and strategic initiatives with a particular mention on the airline’s fleet transformation program and the arrival of the first A220 in September this year.

The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) has delivered a major boost to pediatric healthcare in the Highlands region with the donation of vital medical equipment to the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority last Saturday. Since its launch in 2023, the PNG CORE Charity Golf Challenge—held annually in Sydney— has become a flagship fundraising initiative, uniting the extractive industries and corporate partners in a shared mission to give back to communities in meaningful and impactful ways. PNG CORE stated that the 2023 and 2024 events raised a combined total of PGK 300,000, with PGK 280,683.06 used to procure life-saving medical equipment for Mt. Hagen’s pediatric ward. “The donation includes: Phototherapy Light – for treating newborn jaundice Siemens P500 Portable Ultrasound – for advanced diagnostics Additional Portable Ultrasound Unit – for bedside assessments Welch Allyn Connex Monitor – for real-time patient monitoring Clements Ceevac Suction Pump – for airway clearance and emergency care Liberty Nebulizer – to support children with respiratory conditions Visionaire 5L Oxygen Concentrator – for critical oxygen therapy Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority CEO Jane Holden, highlighted the hospital’s growing patient load, driven by internal migration and conflict. She noted a 125% increase in outpatient visits and a 20% rise in admissions, with many children arriving in vulnerable conditions. Ms. Holden also highlighted that Mt. Hagen Hospital has consistently ranked among the top-performing Provincial Health Authorities in the country, despite operating with significantly lower per-patient funding than other regions. “The hospital’s pediatric ward, originally funded for 48 beds, is currently caring for over 100 children—underscoring the urgent need for expanded support,” she added. She described the donation as transformational, enabling the hospital to continue delivering high-quality care despite limited resources. Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa commended PNG CORE for recognizing Mt. Hagen Hospital’s role as a critical referral centre for the Highlands region. He noted that the hospital continues to serve patients from multiple provinces, often under challenging conditions, and welcomed the donation as a timely and well-directed investment in the region’s healthcare infrastructure. “This donation is more than just equipment—it’s a symbol of our commitment to supporting healthcare in regions that often go unnoticed. Mt. Hagen is a vital hub for the Highlands, and we are proud to contribute to the wellbeing of its children. This is just the beginning of a long-term partnership,” states PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré. “Mt. Hagen Hospital is not only serving its province—it’s carrying the burden of surrounding regions affected by displacement and conflict. The dedication of its staff is extraordinary, and we are humbled to support their work. This initiative reflects our shared responsibility to uplift communities and ensure healthcare reaches those who need it most. We were particularly impressed by the professionalism, discipline, and compassion shown by the hospital staff. Good governance and operational excellence are key criteria when PNG CORE considers donations, and Mt. Hagen Hospital exemplifies both,” added PNG CORE Senior Vice President Richard Kassman. PNG CORE also acknowledges the generous support of its sponsors, whose contributions made this initiative possible: Prime Minister James Marape for the government’s contribution of K100,000, K92 Mining Limited, Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, Sun Engineering, Santos, Newmont Corporation, High Arctic Energy Services, Nimamar Capital Limited, Twinza Oil Limited, PNG CR Services Company Limited, Oro Nickel, and Larus Energy. This initiative aligns with PNG CORE’s strategic goal of supporting community development and healthcare across Papua New Guinea. “By working together, the industry and its partners are helping the nation reach its full potential,” PNG CORE added.

The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) is calling on community leaders, landowners, and small-scale miners to unite in tackling the escalating issue of unregulated alluvial mining across the country. Unregulated alluvial mining poses a serious threat to the mining industry, local communities, and legitimate small-scale miners. Recent reports have highlighted a surge in illegal mining practices, gold smuggling, and a decline in lawful alluvial gold production, raising alarm across the sector. In response to these developments, the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) has issued a public stop-work notice targeting unauthorized alluvial mining operations involving heavy machinery. This enforcement followed confirmed reports of individuals and companies conducting illegal mining activities in designated alluvial mining districts and other regions. The MRA emphasized that these operations violate the Mining Act 1992 and warned that further breaches would result in legal consequences. Echoing this regulatory stance, Mining Minister Rainbo Paita issued a strong warning to all operators: “Operate within your permits or leave.” Minister Paita reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance approach to illegal mining, stressing that all mining activities must comply with the terms of their permits and licenses. He emphasized that failure to do so undermines the integrity of the sector and will not be tolerated. PNG CORE said as the peak body representing the minerals sector, PNG CORE is deeply concerned about the environmental damage, social disruption, and economic harm caused by these unregulated activities. “Such operations not only endanger surrounding communities but also erode sustainable development opportunities and fair competition for compliant miners. PNG CORE urges community leaders and landowners to take proactive steps to protect their land and people’s future.  This includes refusing access to illegal miners, reporting suspicious activities to the authorities, and verifying all mining engagements with the MRA before proceeding. Small-scale miners are also strongly encouraged to pursue legal operations by securing the necessary licenses and permits for machinery use. Legal compliance ensures safer, environmentally responsible mining practices and contributes meaningfully to both community welfare and national development. Addressing illegal and unregulated alluvial mining requires a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach focused on formalization, environmental stewardship, community health, and strengthened governance,” PNG CORE said. PNG CORE Vice President Mr. Assik Tommy Tomscoll, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to responsible and sustainable development across the resources and energy sector. “PNG CORE unequivocally condemns unregulated alluvial mining. These activities are not only environmentally destructive and socially harmful, but also represent unfair competition that undermines legitimate, regulated alluvial miners and the broader resource sector committed to operating sustainably, safely, and in partnership with landowners and communities. PNG CORE fully supports the national mining laws and the essential regulatory role of the Mineral Resources Authority.” PNG CORE remains steadfast in its mission to promote responsible resource development that delivers genuine, sustainable benefits for all Papua New Guineans.

In the heart of Papua New Guinea's West New Britain Province, a quiet revolution is unfolding, driven not by government directives or corporate philanthropy, but by the sheer determination of communities frustrated by unfulfilled promises. In places like Tamba and Gaungo Village Oil Palm (VOP) Scheme, families are taking matters into their own hands to secure the most fundamental of human rights: access to clean and safe water, often with the crucial support of individuals like Mr. Kevin Mansu and his organization, Green Knights Limited. For generations, the daily ritual for mothers and daughters in these oil palm growing regions has been the arduous and often dangerous trek to distant water sources. The Dagi River, a primary lifeline, is not only a laborious journey but a perilous one. It's a river frequented by crocodiles, as tragically highlighted by a recent attack on a young man and further compromised by pollution from oil palm mill effluent and other organic wastes. This grim reality underpins a broader struggle shared by countless remote communities across Papua New Guinea, where basic infrastructure and services remain elusive. The frustration runs deep, fueled by years of broken pledges. This systemic failure, often indicative of broader issues of accountability and resource mismanagement, leaves communities to bear the brunt of neglect, essentially paying for services they never receive. But in the face of this adversity, a powerful spirit of self-reliance has emerged. The Albert Bokim family at Tamba Section 8, for instance, is now celebrating the success of a water bore drilling that has brought clean water directly to their doorstep. The David Konido family, pioneers in the area, also rejoice in a high-water table found at 35 meters, ensuring their relief from daily water fetching. The communities, recognizing that waiting for external assistance is no longer an option, are collectively investing their own hard-earned money to pay for bore drilling and the necessary PVC pipes for casing. This grassroots initiative is a beacon of hope, demonstrating how communities are actively striving to achieve crucial United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG Goals 15 & 16 related to life on land and peace, justice, and strong institutions, interpreted here as community self-governance and access to basic services) with little to no government assistance. The sight of happy, smiling faces standing beside completed water bore casings speaks volumes, signifying an end to the dangerous daily chores and a new era of health and dignity. At the forefront of enabling this transformative change is Mr. Kevin Mansu and Green Knights Limited. Their expertise and dedication in facilitating this water bore drillings are instrumental. They are not merely providing a service; they are empowering communities to secure their futures, turning the abstract concept of "clean water for all" into a tangible reality. Their work is a testament to the power of targeted, community-centric action in overcoming systemic hurdles. While these successes are profound, they also serve as a stark reminder to the Western New Britain Provincial Government, Nakanai District, and NBPOL. The communities are doing their part, investing their limited resources. The question now looms large: can these governmental and corporate entities complement these individual family initiatives by supplying essential water pumps and overhead tanks to draw and store this newly accessed water? The struggle for clean water in places like Tamba and Gaungo VOP is a microcosm of the challenges faced by countless communities across Papua New Guinea. Yet, it is also a powerful narrative of resilience, self-determination, and the extraordinary impact of committed individuals and organizations like Kevin Mansu and Green Knights Limited, who are lighting the way forward, one borehole at a time.

The newly appointed executives of the PNG Resource Governance Coalition (PNGRGC) have called on the government to prioritize the reforms under the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) standard to help prevent PNG being grey listed by the Financial Action Taskforce (FATF). The members of the PNGRGC appointed their 2025 Council at the recently concluded Annual General Meeting on Thursday 19th June 2025 at the Gateway Hotel, Port Moresby city. “Reforms pursued under the EITI standard related to governance and accountability over resource utilization can contribute towards ensuring PNG is not grey listed by FATF. Making information available on the owners of a company through a publicly available Beneficial Ownership Registry, is a measure recommended by both EITI and FATF. PNG has already met the requirement under EITI to ensure all extractive companies disclose who their owners are, so the government should extend the same approach to the remainder of companies so as to meet the FATF requirements,” said Ms. Arianne Kassman representing Transparency International PNG, President elect of the PNGRGC. Ms. Kassman said the PNGRGC is the peak body representing civil society interests in the Papua New Guinea Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (PNGEITI), which is a process whereby extractive companies disclose payments made to the State, and revenue agencies report payments received by industry, as well as having to comply with other standards related to sub-national transfers, contract transparency, and related to gender opportunities and environmental accountability. “The PNGRGC is a registered association whose members are themselves registered associations, working to promote good governance in the extractive sector of Papua New Guinea.  The following organizations are members of the PNGRGC Council: President – Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) Inc. Vice President – Center for Environmental Law and Community Rights (CELCOR) Inc. Secretary – Consultative Implementation & Monitoring Council (CIMC) Treasurer – Papua New Guinea Institute of National Affairs (INA) Membership for the PNGRGC is open for formally registered associations and forms can be collected by contacting the PNGRGC Secretariat Officer, Ms. Michelle Mondia, on pngrgcadm@gmail.com or calling 3234917 and speaking with the PNGRGC office,” she added.

Whilst in Goroka recently, Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) took the opportunity to award the Goroka Urban Local Level Government (GULLG) with the “NSL Top Employer Award for Voluntary Contributions Uptake – 2024.  In recognition of GULLG’s outstanding efforts in educating and supporting their employees toward achieving a financially secure and comfortable retirement, resulting in the strong uptake of Voluntary Contributions by their staff in 2024. The award was presented by NSL’s incoming Board Chairman, Mr. Richard Sinamoi, during NSL’s first Regional Engagement and Awareness (E&A) session held in Goroka, in May at the Bird of Paradise Hotel. NSL stated that the presentation was witnessed by over 100 NSL Employer representatives and Members from Eastern Highlands, Chimbu, Jiwaka, Western Highlands, Enga, and Southern Highlands Provinces who attended the E&A event, representing more than 79 Employer groups. “This award recognises GULLG’s proactive collaboration with the NSL Goroka Branch to empower their employees to take greater control of their retirement savings through additional Voluntary Contributions. As a result of this initiative, the number of employees taking up Voluntary Contributions increased from just three in 2023 to over 95 in 2024,” NSL said. NSL’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Paul Sayer, commended GULLG’s efforts, stating, “What GULLG has done as an Employer is encouraging. They have led by example in considering the financial well-being of their staff, not just while employed with their organisation, but even after they have left. GULLG have demonstrated that they are a ‘truly thoughtful’ and ‘responsible’ Employer.” He added Papua New Guinea does not have a social security system, and their Members often find it challenging to save due to cultural demands and the high cost of living. “Many employees who are NSL Members tend to spend all their wages taking care of their families and managing day-to-day living, without considering saving for life after employment.” NSL encourages all Members and Employers to follow GULLG’s example and take advantage of NSL’s Voluntary Contributions product. Employers can reach out to their nearest NSL Branch to organise “Super Sessions” to drive awareness around the products and services available to NSL Members. Currently, 100% of GULLG employees are actively making Voluntary Contributions, demonstrating what can be achieved when Employers and employees work together with NSL toward a stronger and financially secure retirement. NSL Goroka is now extending this success to other Employer groups in the area. In May 2025, the team partnered with Papindo – Goroka, registering 79 employees for Voluntary Contributions, and they will continue the rollout to Papindo Kainantu,” he said. NSL encourages all Employers across Papua New Guinea to join this initiative and provide their employees the opportunity to grow their superannuation savings through Voluntary Contributions and the power of compound interest.

200 families in the Womayen Village of Yangoru-Saussia District in East Sepik province are set to receive a 5,000Litre water tank each under the District Development Authority’s (DDA) WaSH Project. The first 37 tanks arrived last week, and the rest are expected to arrive in the next two weeks. “We have made the payment to the supplier for the 200 tanks; however, their tanks are currently out of stock. It is my hope that in the next two weeks all 200 tanks will be delivered,” said the local MP and the Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru. He said each tank cost K6,000 and each family contributed 10 percent equity (K600) and the DDA topped up K5,400. In total, the DDA spent over a million kina to support the families in the Womayen Village to purchase the 200 tanks. Minister Maru said this was the first phase of the Womayen Market project. “Our mothers cannot cook food to sell at the market without clean water. They have honored the commitment of 10 percent equity contribution, and we will deliver 200 tanks to the families in Womayen. As we look forward to celebrating the country’s 50th Anniversary, we hope to close one chapter, a chapter like carrying containers to find water in the rivers and move into a new chapter where we have access to clean and safe water and where our mother can sit and trade in proper markets,” added Minister Maru. Meanwhile, Minister Maru will be leading a delegation including the DDA CEO, the representatives from Womayen Village and the engineers to visit the Kimbe Market to see their design and operations. “The concept design for the Womayen Market is ready. After our visit to Kimbe we will finalize the design with the input from the representatives of the Womayen village and we will prepare tender documents to go on tender,” said Minister Maru. He said the Womayen Market, upon completion, will be a 24-hour market that would not only serve the people of Womayen and the Yangoru-Saussia District but also those from other districts in the East Sepik Province, West Sepik Province, and all travelling public along the Sepik Highway. “This market will operate 24 hours, which means there has to be proper electricity and water supply system, a police station so our mothers and girls are safe, a guest house for the mothers travelling from afar to rest in, banks, ablution block, an office, a car park, and other essential facilities,” said Minister Maru.