The Papua New Guinea Institute of Directors (PNGID) and the Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) partnered to host a business breakfast on Monday 17th of March,2025 in Lae, Morobe Province. The event was sponsored by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) to launch the PNGID’s Director Development Program in Lae. PNGID said that this is the first time the director development program has been officially conducted in Lae. “Present at the event were representatives from the Lae business community, Phil Franklin Deputy Chairman of IPA Board, John Byrne, President of LCCI, Graham Ainui, IPA Board member, IPA Managing Director Clarence Hoot, Christine Sumbuk PNGID Board member, PNG Institute of Directors CEO Megan Taureka-Andrew, with Lae based members of the PNG Institute of Directors. PNGID President of the Board of Directors Mr. Clarence Hoot expressed support for the director development program and other initiatives the organization is running. He said it is the intention of the board to implement the director development program across the country. “For 2025, the PNGID board has identified key priority areas such as raising standards of boards and institutions, growing the PNGID membership and building partnerships, increasing membership value and engaging in partnerships,” he said. Mr. Hoot urged businesses and SMEs in Lae to join PNGID and attend the director development programs. “By becoming members of the PNGID, your name will be published on our website for interested entities to see in the event, that they are seeking independent directors. As a member, you also subscribe to receive our newsletters and attend our networking events to expand your network,” he said. Mr. Hoot said in 2024, PNGID had a total of 450 members and so far, in the first quarter of 2025, we have a membership of 267 made up of 193 male and 74 female as our 2025 renewals continue. “As President, I urge the private sector, SME operators and youth to join PNGID to promote good governance across the country and to improve on our ongoing challenges. This is indeed an opportunity for us to bring change in a challenging environment,” he said. In highlighting some of the legislative reforms that the IPA is carrying out, Mr. Hoot said most of the laws are up to date with the Associations Incorporation Act. “We are now progressing the regulations and once approved, the IPA will call for re-registration of all associations just like we did in 2022-2023 for the limited companies, business names and business groups entities. I am happy to inform you all that the Online Registry is working smoothly thus far, but any specific issues experienced by businesses can be addressed when you reach out to IPA,” he said. Mr. Hoot said there will be a visit by a Fiji business delegation on March 24-27 led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica. He added that PNG is preparing to participate in the 2025 Osaka World Expo in Japan from April to October 2025. He encouraged the private sector interested in doing business with Japan and other Asian economies to reach out to IPA for further information on how they can participate in the expo. He thanked LCCI and PNGID for the inaugural business breakfast and said that IPA was pleased to be a partner of the inaugural event.

Prime Minister James Marape has commended Parliament for its overwhelming support in passing the Income Tax Bill 2025 with a resounding vote of 79-0, describing it as a monumental step towards eradicating outdated colonial laws and establishing a fairer, more equitable taxation system for Papua New Guinea. Speaking during the parliamentary debate, PM Marape acknowledged the bill as a critical component of his government’s 'Take Back PNG' agenda. Mr. Marape praised the bipartisan support received for the bill, which he described as an essential aspect of revisiting and modernizing the fundamental architecture that holds the country together. "For 66 years, the original law governing our nation’s taxation system has been in place, having been passed by the Australian Parliament before our independence. Since then, revenue administration has been governed by this law, resulting in inadequate revenue collection. No wonder our revenue has been poor for such a long time,” PM Marape said. He added that the passing of the Income Tax Bill 2025 is a significant move towards reasserting Papua New Guinea’s sovereignty over its economic affairs. "This new law reflects our commitment to fairness and transparency. It secures our people's economic future by clarifying the taxation process, especially for our rural communities and first-time homebuyers," he stated. The Prime Minister emphasized that the bill addresses several critical areas, including revenue collection, price transfers, capital gains, and depreciation. He noted that the previous legislation allowed for ambiguities and loopholes that foreign companies exploited to the detriment of Papua New Guinea’s revenue base.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) has committed K50,000 towards the 51st Hiri Moale Festival on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Motu Koita Assembly boardroom in Port Moresby. TPA said the festival is set to take place from April 3rd to 6th. The Hiri Moale Festival is one of Papua New Guinea’s most celebrated cultural events, honouring the historic Hiri trading voyages between the Motuans and Gulf people. "This year’s festival is expected to attract more than 15,000 attendees, drawing cultural enthusiasts from across the country and beyond. Beyond the financial sponsorship, PNGTPA will collaborate with the Hiri Moale Festival Committee to capture high-quality photo and video content to promote the Hiri Motuan and Gulf cultures," TPA said. Motu Koita Assembly’s Manager & CEO, Mari Kila thanked TPA for its support. "I would like to thank TPA for its generous support towards the 51st Hiri Moale Festival. This support is vital in ensuring we deliver a successful event that honours our ancestors’ legacy while also providing opportunities for local artists, performers, and tourism operators. TPA’s commitment strengthens our efforts to elevate the festival’s profile and show the unique traditions of the Motu Koita people to a broader audience," said Kila. TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo highlighted the importance of the festival. "TPA is proud to support this year’s Hiri Moale Festival, as it reaffirms our commitment to preserving and promoting Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage. The Hiri Moale Festival is not just a celebration of history; it is a testament of the resilience and traditions of the Motu Koita people. As we approach the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary this year, this festival is one of those that shows our identity and the importance of cultural tourism," said Uvovo.

The National Contributors Savings and Loan Society conducted an employee awareness session in Oro Province recently. Under the leafy oil palm trees of Serembe village, NCSL Popondetta Team conducted a savings and loan awareness session to make known the importance of savings and borrowing wisely to employees at Higaturu Oil Palms Ltd. NCSL stated that the session educated Higaturu Oil Palms Limited employees about saving for the future. "During the awareness, new members showed appreciation for the clear explanations, and for existing members, the opportunity allowed assistance with savings and loan account queries they had. NCSL Savings and Loan is committed to promoting financial literacy. By visiting our registered employers and members at their workplaces, we aim to provide support to those who do not have ample time to visit our branches during weekdays," NCSL said. NCSL added that their team’s efforts in Serembe Village show this commitment to bringing service and information to their members and supporting community growth through employer arranged engagements.

Governor for Central Province Rufina Peter has acknowledged the Consultative Implementation and Monitoring Council (CIMC) for the establishment of Family Sexual Violence Action Committee (FSVAC) and the tremendous work on the national response towards ending violence against women since 2000. Before delivering her official speech at the parliament session Governor Peter briefly mentioned the important role that CIMC has played through the Family and Sexual Violence Action Committee (FSVAC) when the desk was established in 2000 under the previous Government. “I would like to acknowledge CIMC in championing FSVAC in the early 2000, and with the establishment of GBV strategy which paved way for the establishment of the Parliamentary Committee and so here we are, raising women issues and GBV at the floor of Parliament," she said. Governor Peter also commended the Marape Rosso Government for the continuous support toward addressing gender-based violence issues in the country. "FSVAC was established in 2000 as one of the eleven (11) sectorial committees of the CIMC taking its cue from the CIMC's mandate and working towards reducing the occurrence and suffering caused by physical, sexual and psychological violence between family members, and towards increasing access to support services and justice for survivors. First strategy called Family and Sexual Violence in PNG was funded by the British High Commission in 2001 led by CIMC Sectoral Committee on Family Violence, chaired by Priscilla Kare of the Young Woman’s Christian Association. From 2013 to 2016 the committee took on a more prominent role in the space of GBV providing technical support and strategic direction through its four key focus areas around protection of survivors, advocacy for increased actions to end violence and service provision for survivors of violence. In 2016 the government endorsed the national GBV strategy 2016 – 2025, a document that CIMC has helped put together through its wider network with assistance from development partners and which now through review process informs the GBV Strategy 2025 – 2030," CIMC stated.

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability and resource efficiency, CPL Foundation Inc. has launched the Water Harvest Project, an innovative initiative aimed at optimizing water conservation and enhancing supply chain resilience. The Water Harvest Project is a pioneering sustainability initiative spear headed by Sir Mahesh Patel, OBE through the CPL Foundation, designed to collect, store, and utilize atmospheric water harvesting for operational needs within the company’s supply chain. CPL stated that the project aims to reduce dependency on municipal water sources, cut operational costs, and promote responsible water management. “The project was officially launched yesterday at a special media launch event held at CPL Group’s Distribution Centre, where invited guests, media representatives, and key stakeholders witnessed the system demonstration and heard from project leaders. Waterborne diseases remain a significant public health challenge in Papua New Guinea, with children being particularly vulnerable. According to recent data, waterborne illnesses account for a substantial portion of childhood morbidity and mortality in the country. By harvesting and responsibly managing atmospheric water, CPL Group through CPL Foundation’s Water Harvest Project aims to set a new standard for water safety and hygiene within its operations, while also reducing reliance on municipal supplies,” CPL said. The Group added that this initiative reflects the company’s commitment to safeguarding public health and promoting environmental sustainability. "At the CPL Foundation, our mission has always been to empower communities, improve livelihoods, and create sustainable solutions to some of the most pressing challenges our people face. One such challenge—perhaps the most fundamental—is access to clean drinking water. This initiative has the potential to change lives across rural Papua New Guinea,” CPL Group said.

The luxury cruise ship, Regatta, arrived at Motukea Port bringing excited tourists to Port Moresby yesterday (Wednesday 19, February). PNG Ports Limited stated that the cruise ship was brought alongside their Marine Pilots who boarded the vessel at 8:20am and berthed at 9:30am. “The arrival of the vessel, operated by Oceania Cruises, is a boost for the cruise tourism industry in Port Moresby. Planned excursions for the tourist’s included visits to the National Museum and Art Gallery, Port Moresby Nature Park, the War Memorials, and various sites. A group of them visited the Bomana War Cemetery, to pay homage to family members who lost their lives during WWII,” PNG Port said. PNG Port added that Port Moresby has unique attractions and rich heritage sites marketable to the international audience, and PNG Ports is proud to play a significant role in enabling this. “PNG Ports supports cruise tourism through the provision of world-class port facilities, pilotage and berthage. Regatta arrived from Alotau, and departed in the afternoon,” PNG Ports said.

The Fire and Rescue Bill 2025 was passed in Parliament today in a favor of 67 votes to non. The Bill was presented in Parliament by Defence Minister Dr. Billy Joseph who stated that the PNG Fire and Rescue Service is a State Agency in Papua New Guinea responsible for the organization, management and control of all the fire brigades under the Fire Service Act (Chapter 64) and for the protection of life and property in the case of fire. Minister Joseph stated that the Fire Service Act (Chapter 64) substantially remains unchanged since its commencement in 1968, particularly the provisions of the Firemen operations and the performance aspects which, in most part outdated. “Hence, this Fire and Rescue Service Bill 2025 will repeal and replace this Fire Service Act (Chapter 64). The Fire and Rescue Bill 2025 aims to bring about changes that will enable the Fire and Rescue Service to perform better and expend its roles and responsibilities to meet emerging challenges. The development and the expansion of Towns and Cities in PNG caused some of the provisions in the Fire Service Act to become inappropriate and an obstacle to progress. Therefore, the need to repeal the Fire Service Act is relevant to meets today’s prevailing circumstances. A new modern framework is needed given these prevailing circumstances to effectively enable the PNG Fire Service to help address these problems by giving more directions to its operations,” Minister Joseph said. He said the National Fire Service has Fire Brigades and Stations established in 13 provinces in the country. “Under the proposed Bill, the aim of the PNG Fire Service is to have Fire Brigades and Stations established in all Districts and Provinces in the country including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. As minister for Defence, I want the PNG Fire Service to be modernized to meet the evolving fire safety and emergency needs of the country. The Marape-Rosso government recognizes the importance of this service, hence supporting the modernization of the important Institution of State and is a crucial area of long-term focus for the government in terms of investment in building new infrastructure, acquiring appropriate technology, equipment and fire engines, training manpower in modern firefighting, rescue and emergency protocol, as well as adequate funding appropriation. As minister responsible, I would like to see the PNG Fire Service enter into a new era, delivering more resources, more personnel and better focused and aligned services for the country,” he said. All members of Parliament both the government and the opposition supported the Bill and congratulated the Minister for passing the Bill Parliament.

National Population Census is a very important process that is undertaken by any Government across the globe and PNG is no exception. Minister for Administrative Services Richard Masere said Census is important and after every 10 years, it is carried out to understand the country's population. Minister Masere said this in response to questions raised in Parliament by Governor of Southern Highlands William Powi in regard to the status of Census, it's budget and when it will be announced. "Census commenced on 16 June 2024. The progress and planning of the Census had commenced in 2020, but unfortunately due to COVID-19 the process was delayed in 2020 up until 2024. The proposed budget was K310 million and it was proposed to be moved to be conducted in 2026, but I took a drastic measure to conduct Census and review the budget that was established to cost the country around K310 million due to prudential management, we were able to downscale the budget from K310 million to K153 million in order for us to undertake this very important process," Mr. Masere said. He added that the process that was initially planned, was for the Census work to be done within two weeks. "Around the world they normally mark two weeks to conduct the Census. As preparation was continuing the funding that was made available in 2020 to get K15million worth of materials to carry out the Census, was unfortunately destroyed in the January 10, black Wednesday. As a result, the funding was received in May 2024 which was three weeks away from conducting the Census. With all these challenges, Census took 6 months to conduct," he said. Minister Masere explained that the government delivered in a record time of 6 months within their budget and framework which was given to us to work with. The Census is a process that takes a few months to conclude. After it is completed, there is another process that kicks in, which is called the field evaluation. The field evaluation is intended to move around to ensure that those missed out during the actual Census are captured during the evaluation," he said. Minister Masere said he has issued and instructed that they be given 6 months to conduct the evaluation process and ensure it is completed so that the Prime Minister could announce to the country the actual population in the country.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) officially signed a contract with Dustin Chen, a UK-based wildlife photographer, on Tuesday 11 March to position the country as a premier global birding destination. TPA stated that renowned for his stunning photos of PNG’s diverse avian life, TPA will engage Chen as a consultant for the development of PNG’s National Birding Trail. "The agreement is set to run from April 18, 2025, to April 18, 2026, with TPA providing logistical support and funding. Under the agreement, Chen will lead the identification and mapping of key bird-watching hotspots, conduct capacity-building programs for local birding guides, and contribute to the creation of high-quality visual content to enhance TPA’s marketing of this unique niche market to the world," TPA stated. TPA said Chen has been instrumental in bringing international attention to PNG’s extraordinary birdlife. "His award-winning photograph, Dance of the Flame Bird, received high commendation in the 'Behaviour: Birds' category of the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition in 2022. Capturing a male flame bowerbird in a captivating courtship display. Through his extensive work, Chen has travelled to PNG many times to document the country’s birds, from the dense rainforests of Kiunga to other remote birding locations teeming with rare and endemic species. His expertise in the field will be crucial in shaping Papua New Guinea’s first structured National Birding Trail, aimed at attracting international birdwatchers and conservationists," TPA said. Chen highlighted the importance of the partnership with TPA. "Based on my experience traveling across South America, Asia, and Africa, I am confident that PNG has the potential to become a leading destination for birding tourism. Birds of paradise are unique to PNG, making them a major attraction for bird photographers and tourists. By working with local communities to establish feeding stations and hides, we can create sustainable tourism opportunities that benefit both conservation and local livelihoods," said Chen. Chen also said that he was excited with this opportunity to promote PNG’s bird watching market. "With proper product development and promotion, PNG can attract high-value birding tourists who contribute significantly to the local economy. I am excited to collaborate with TPA to make this vision a reality," said Chen. Chen’s objectives with TPA focus on enhancing Papua New Guinea’s bird-watching tourism by identifying and validating prime bird-watching locations to establish a National Birding Trail. "His work includes conducting national training sessions for local birding guides and site managers, ensuring they have the necessary skills to support birding tourism. He is also tasked with capturing and delivering over 500 high-resolution images of PNG’s iconic bird species, including the renowned Birds of Paradise. He will develop structured birding itineraries ranging from 7-day to 30-day options, catering to diverse visitor preferences. As part of his efforts to position PNG as a premier birding destination, he will represent TPA at the 2025 Global Bird Fair in the UK," TPA stated. TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo emphasized the importance of this partnership in enhancing the country’s global standing in nature-based tourism. "We are privileged to have Dustin Chan here to help us develop the national birding trade. Birding is a niche market in Papua New Guinea with huge potential, and this partnership will set a foundation for its growth. PNG remains one of the best destinations for birding. Our focus is to develop this niche product to harness its full potential, benefiting local entrepreneurs and communities. Our commitment remains undivided. We appreciate this partnership with Dustin and look forward to working together to complete this important project,” said Uvovo. Uvovo reiterated the benefits of nature-based tourism in PNG. “We have over 700 bird species, including 38 Birds of Paradise found nowhere else in the world, PNG is a world-class birding destination. The development of the National Birding Trail will not only enhance PNG’s eco-tourism sector but also empower local communities by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to sustainably manage bird-watching hotspots throughout the country,” said Uvovo.

The Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA), announced the inaugural Papua New Guinea National Tourism Conference 2025. The event will convene leading experts, industry stakeholders, and key decision-makers to explore critical issues, discuss emerging trends, and plan a sustainable course for the future of tourism in the country. TPA said a significant highlight of the announcement was the presentation of the Platinum Sponsorship from Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries. "MRDC, a major investor in tourism and hospitality, and instrumental in bringing the international Hilton brand to Papua New Guinea, has demonstrated its commitment to the sector’s growth through the contribution," TPA said. Belden Norman Namah, Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture stated the strategic importance of the conference within the broader context of Papua New Guinea's development. "This inaugural National Tourism Conference is a key component of the PNG Tourism Sector Development Plan, which recognizes tourism as a vital renewable resource. This conference will serve as a catalyst, awakening the immense potential of the tourism industry and encouraging Papua New Guineans to recognize the 'pot of gold' that exists within this sector," Minister Namah said. Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, CEO of the TPA, remarked on the significance of the conference for industry stakeholders stating that the PNG Tourism Industry Association, represents over 60 members, including hoteliers, transport providers, tour operators, artisans, and trekking companies. "The conference serves as a vital conduit for facilitating knowledge exchange and driving the development of actionable strategies to promote sustainable growth. Additionally, the conference will feature an exposition open to the public, allowing people to explore and understand more about the diverse packages offered," he said. MRDC Managing Director Mr. Augustine Mano said MRDC recognizes the immense, long-term potential of the tourism sector to contribute to Papua New Guinea's economic diversification and sustainable development. “Our investment in this conference, along with our broader commitment to tourism and hospitality through initiatives like the Hilton brand and infrastructure development in the communities we serve, reflects our vision for a future beyond extractive industries. “Tourism can complement extractive resources, as it offers a lasting benefit for our people. That's why our investments, in aviation, finance, healthcare, real estate, power generation, all contribute to building a foundation that supports and promotes tourism. This conference will be instrumental in shaping that sustainable future and helping our communities thrive in the tourism industry.” Mr. Mano said. The National Tourism Conference will address a wide range of critical topics, including sustainable tourism development, destination marketing, cultural preservation, infrastructure development, and community engagement. It will provide a valuable forum for participants to network, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives to enhance Papua New Guinea's tourism offerings.

The Passam to Maprik Road in East Sepik Province will be funded by the National Government to be upgraded, says Minister for Works and Highways Solan Mirisim. Minister Mirisim stated in Parliament after a supplementary question was asked by Governor for East Sepik Allan Bird in-regards to the funding for the roads, which was initially supposed to be funded by the Australian Government. Governor Bird asked if the road from Passam-Maprik on the Sepik highway was initially funded under the Australian Government's Transport Sector Support Program (TSSP) and if the Minister could confirm or deny if the initial funding by Australia was withdrawn. Minister Mirisim in response stated that the National Government has decided to take over the funding of the Passam-Maprik section of the Sepik Highway when they awarded the contract to a Chinese firm to do the work on the road and upgrade under the Connect PNG program. He said Australia withdrew their funding of K100 million due to the contract being awarded to the Chinese firm because they did not want to do business with a Chinese contractor. "The Passam-Maprik road, the contractor has been awarded China Shayang International, and the contractor is in their mobilization to start work on the road from Passam to Maprik. The National Government will fund the road because it is an economic road, and we have already awarded the contract, and we are waiting to fund it. Also, the road from Passam to Angoram in East Sepik is with the National Procurement Commission (NPC) and they will deliberate on it and give approval for the project anytime this week for the National Executive Council (NEC) to award the contract for the road to be upgraded," Minister Mirisim stated. He also thanked the government for the maintenance work on the road from Hayfield to Waterfront at Pagwi. "The Maprik to Wara Sikau road is at the evaluation stage and it will soon reach NPC before going to NEC. But for the road from Wara Sikau to Lumi with road from Vanimo to Green River, are currently at NPC," Minister said. He said for the Coastal Road the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are working on the designs for the roads starting from Wutung in West Sepik to Wewak in East Sepik. "The design includes two wharves as well in Wewak and Vanimo. After the design, it will go for tender and a contract would be awarded in 2026," he said.