Changes are on the way for the PNG Ports Corporation Limited Rabaul Port as it is earmarked to undergo significant rehabilitation work that is set to bolster it resilience to climate and natural disasters while further progressing the State entity’s drive towards greener port operations across its network. This follows the signing of the Declaration of Intent on the sustainable rehabilitation of ports infrastructure agreement between the European Union (EU), the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and European Investment Bank (EIB), the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and PNG Ports in July 2023. The Declaration of Intent, according to a statement, shapes the collaboration between partners to strengthen PNG Ports as a modern, reliable, safe, and sustainable State-Owned entity, whilst improving maritime trade through sustainable port infrastructure rehabilitation. As part of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, a total of €75 million (K305 million) has been allocated to upgrade the Rabaul port. This blended financial package will cater for the port’s feasibility studies, dredging, upgrade of land-based facilities, wharf extension and repair works. Additionally, in a recent meeting with representatives of the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) in Port Moresby, Officer in Charge of PNG Ports, Ian Hayden-Smart stated that the signing of the Declaration of Intent and the rehabilitation of the Rabaul Port represents a significant stride towards the sustainable development of PNG’s maritime infrastructure. “The Rabaul Port Project is in sync with the PNG Ports broader investment strategy for a number of our ports, as detailed in the 30-year Infrastructure Master Plan, and I again acknowledge DFAT through the AIFFP for the allocated funding for the other ports set to undergo significant upgrades.” Hayden-Smart further stated that like all Maritime Ports around the country, the Port of Rabaul is the gateway for trade in East New Britain Province and is important that PNG Ports ensures this port is upgraded and ready to meet the maritime trade demands. “The Rabaul Port rehabilitation project is aligned with the PNG Government’s push for the implementation of green initiatives and more resilience to the global effects of climate change at our Ports.” “PNG Ports is committed to upgrade its port facilities to be fit for purpose, sustainable and climate and disaster resilient to meet the demands in maritime trade, and this support and collaboration with EU, EIB and DFAT will greatly assist in realizing this.” Meanwhile, following a number of collaborative meetings held between Agence Française de Développement and PNG Ports, a feasibility study for the Rabaul Port, carried out by DT Global, has commenced. Upon completion of the detailed design and tender process, it is anticipated that construction will start in July 2025.