Papua New Guinea’s geographical and strategic importance in the Aisa-Pacific region makes PNG an attractive investment destination. Prime Minister James Marape when reflecting on the World Economic Forum (WEF), emphasized PNG’s geographical and strategic importance in the Asia-Pacific region. Mr. Marape said with Aisa driving the next century of global economic growth, PNG is uniquely positioned as a resource-rich nation close to major markets in Southeast Asia, China and India. “This proximity, coupled with our membership in ASEAN-related frameworks, makes PNG an attractive investment destination,” Mr. Marape said. He added that the forum provided an opportunity to emphasis PNG’s transition towards becoming a hub for manufactured products and downstream processing. “We want to go beyond just exporting resources. By establishing special economic zones and fostering partnerships with global investors, we aim to produce finished goods and export to Southeast Asia and beyond,” he said. Mr. Marape also met agriculture and forestry companies at the WEF. A key focus of the discussions at WEF was the government’s commitment to reforming PNG’s investment framework ahead of its 50th anniversary of independence. The Prime Minister outlined plans for a transition to a clear and investor-friendly hybrid production-sharing model. “This new framework will ensure that PNG benefits equitably from its resources while giving investors clarity and certainty on their returns. Existing agreements will be honored, but new projects will operate under clear laws that define taxes, royalties, and equity arrangements. This approach will reduce negotiation timelines and provide confidence for both PNG and investors,” Mr. Marape said. He said the reforms aim to create a legal structure that guarantees PNG’ s long-term economic security, ensuring that future governments and investors operate with clarity and mutual benefit. “This is about creating a legacy that transcends individual leaders, a structure that secures PNG’s future earnings while maintaining its attractiveness as a high-return investment destination,” he added. Mr. Marape described the forum as a powerful reminder of PNG’s potential on the global stage. “When the world’s largest oil, gas and mining companies express confidence in PNG as a investment destination, it shows the strength of our nation’s position in the global economy. From our proximity to Asian markets to the vast resources we possess, PNG is poised to play a pivotal role in the global energy and resource sectors for decades to come. My government is committed to fostering partnerships with investors, creating opportunities for Papua New Guineans and driving our nations’ development forward,” Marape concluded.