The Autonomous Region of Bougainvillea is open to investors to partner in the development of its massive resource sector as the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) progresses towards achieving its independence from Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Speaking at the 2025 PNG Resource Week CANCONEX at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby on Tuesday 29th July was the ABG Chief Secretary Mr. Kearnneth Nanei who represented President Ishmael Toroama, where he extended this invitation saying that the mining sector to energy, business, agriculture and fisheries remain untapped.
“Bougainville currently holds significant mineral and natural resource potentials, from cold and copper to renewable energy and fisheries,” said Mr. Nanei.
“For decades these resources remain largely untapped or under-utilized due to conflict, insecurity or lack of infrastructure. Today we are changing that narrative.
“The Autonomous Bougainville Government has taken important steps to establish a stable legal regulatory environment for investments.”
In terms of the mining sector, he said Bougainville is now working to manage its own activities.
“Through the Bougainville Mining Act 2015, and the Bougainville Mining Regulation 2016, the ABG now holds full jurisdiction over mining and exploration activities on the island.”
“This is consistent with Section 296 of the Papua New Guinea Constitution which states that national law continues to apply in Bougainville until they are replaced by Bougainville laws.”
“So, in Bougainville we have the Bougainville mining act that provides the legal framework for regulating the mining industry.”
On the energy front, he said there is the Bougainville Energy Policy and Strategic Energy Action Plan 2023 to 2033, which sets out the vision for clean, affordable and community led energy solutions.
“As we look forward into the future, we invite responsible investors, development partners and resource companies to engage with us.”