The new TISA Bank branch in Wewak, East Sepik province opened its door to customers this morning much to the excitement of public and its Savings and Loans Society members, most of whom are teachers. Opening the new TISA Bank branch was East Sepik Governor Allan Bird, who expressed great gratitude to TISA management and board for choosing his province for the new branch. Pointing to the increase in agriculture in East Sepik, he said the newly established commercial bank must take the opportunity to gain a foothold in promoting agriculture the province by tapping in the sector through engaging with local farmers and industries on the ground through its banking products. In terms of economic growth in the province, he said the provincial government continues to support the private sector to promote business and investments. This is something the good governor said that they are keen on doing, be it in agriculture or other sectors. That's the reason why the new bank branch is been well accepted. He said the provincial government is working closely with landowners so to acquire land in order to expand areas in which investments can be made in, where he said was part of the overall goal to expand the town and place of doing business. In addition to this, a planned new solar project along with a new water treatment facility should enable a conducive environment for investments and for businesses to prosper. Touching again on agriculture, he said TISA Bank's investment in Wewak is timely. "In going forward, I know you got a small branch here, I would encourage you to figure out how you can get into Maprik and Angoram," said Governor Bird. "While a lot of our produce are accessing Maprik, we've invested a lot in Angoram and Angoram is the biggest district. So, over the next couple of years, you're going to see significant production coming from Angoram. "So, there's opportunity for growth there and all across the region and I'm sure you can see that, and that's why you're here." He then thanked TISA for bringing additional banking service to the people of East Sepik and for choosing Wewak as the first step outside of Port Moresby city for its second branch.

After having to endure rocket strikes from Iran, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) citizens along with diplomats who were in Israel have finally returned home safe and sound. The National Government announced the safe return of the group, including diplomatic personnel and pilgrims amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. PNG’s Ambassador to Israel, His Excellency (H.E.) Henry Mokono, along with his family and Embassy staff, arrived on the 29th and 30th of June respectively. Secretary for the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Elias Wohengu welcomed them home. “Our nation stood united in prayer, not only for the safe return of our diplomats and citizens, but also for the people of Israel. We thank everyone who upheld our mission and people in their thoughts and players during this difficult time,” he said. Meanwhile, the PNG Embassy in Jerusalem will remain temporarily closed while the Department of Foreign Affairs remain vigilant and continue to monitor developments closely and maintaining contact with international partners and stakeholders on the ground. Secretary Wohengu reaffirmed PNG’s position on this matter, stating, “As a Christian nation, we stand firmly for peace, for dialogue, and for the protection of human life. We pray for stability in the region and remain hopeful that a peaceful resolution will be found through diplomatic means.”

The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru fully endorses a proposed power project in the Southern Highlands province, saying it will support economic development, including the development of Special Economic Zones in the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Minister Maru endorses the proposed 90MW Kaugel Hydropower Project as a transformational project of highest national priority. The proposed K2.5billion project will take 4 years to construct. “This is a transformational project. We have a very high demand for cheaper, clean, and reliable electricity in our country, not only for our people, but importantly to drive economic growth,” said Minister Maru. “The Kaugel Hydropower Project is precisely the scale and quality of foreign direct investment PNG must prioritize. This hydro can provide long-term electricity to Porgera Mine, the proposed Baiyer and Ruti SEZ, Mt. Hagen City and parts of Southern Highlands Province,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru said Kaugel Hydropower Project aligned with the country’s national goals for rural electrification, industrial development, and reducing carbon emissions. The project will also ease the power issues faced by people in the Highlands Region. Minister Maru then thanked the Managing Director (MD) of Kaugel Hydro Limited, Mr. Karl Yalo and his team for the tireless efforts so far. “We wish them every success to secure anchor customers to make the project bankable, and we also hope that they can secure license from the National Energy Authority,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further added: “My Ministry and Department stands ready to champion this potential high impact and transformational project to demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the Marape-Rosso Government to renewable energy transition, equitable distribution of benefits, and setting the foundations for a better and brighter future for our people and country as we celebrate 50 years of independence and chart our way forward for the next 50 years.”

The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is hosting the 45th Commonwealth Association of Tax Administration (CATA) Heads and Technical Meetings next week in Port Moresby city to talk about everything to do with tax. This prestigious international conference will bring together senior tax administrators from 47 Commonwealth nations, representing over 2 billion citizens worldwide. The event marks a significant milestone for Papua New Guinea as it hosts one of the world's largest gatherings of tax administration professionals. According to the IRC, this high-level meeting brings together tax administration and leaders and technical experts from across Commonwealth countries to discuss tax policy, administration reforms, digital transformation, and capacity building initiatives to enhance revenue mobilization for development. “This meeting demonstrates PNG’s commitment to international cooperation in tax administration and reform,” said Sam Koim, the IRC Commissioner General. “We are honored to host our Commonwealth counterparts to share experience, challenges, and innovations to improve tax compliance and support development.” The conference will officially open on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, with a ceremony presided over by His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae, Governor General of Papua New Guinea Powes Parkop, MP, Governor of National Capital District Ian Ling Stuckey, MP, Minister for Treasury and Thomas Opa, MP, Minister for Finance.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is calling on the people of the Porgera valley in the Enga province to stop the violence and work together to support the operations of New Porgera Limited (NPL), which will in turn benefit them in the long run. Prime Minister Marape made this call after receiving a dummy cheque from the NPL for its corporate tax payment of over K198 million to the State on Wednesday 2nd of July at the APEC Terminal in Port Moresby city, before he departed for his ten (10) days official government overseas trip to the United States and United Kingdom. The NPL, despite a whole lot of challenges being faced by the Porgera Mine operations, has managed to perform extremely well and has paid its corporate tax to the National Government, highlighting its resilience and strong focus on a successful production. NPL’s Q1 report shows that the company poured 84,800 ounces of gold, successfully delivering on its operational budget. This was achieved alongside the connection of the critical Mulitaka Bypass Road, demonstrating the company’s commitment to overcoming logistical and infrastructure challenges. The PM commended New Porgera Limited (NPL) for its outstanding performance in the first quarter of 2025, highlighting the company as a model for responsible resource development and equitable partnerships in Papua New Guinea (PNG). “This is tax coming back to us just for the first part of this year. I look forward to collecting two more installments this year,” said the prime minister. He said this payment is separate from the dividend that will be paid soon by NPL. He then made the call to the people of Porgera to respect the mine operations as it is benefitting them especially with the 15% dividend for the landowners and the other portions for the provincial government that will be given. “The 15% dividend is yours,” said the PM. “Look after the resource. Conduct yourself in a lawful manner.” He also highlighted the use of the tax credit scheme to improve government facilities and the services in Porgera, which is another benefit from the NPL and the mining operation to the people. “We are working to make sure the tax credit scheme is enveloped to fix the police station at Porgera, the resettlement in Porgera, the courthouse in Porgera and the jail facility,” Marape said. Meantime, he also called on the people to conduct themselves accordingly during the current by election that one, so to ensure everything goes smoothly in electing a new Member for the district, who will take the lead in driving change and work with the mine project to ensure the people get the best from it in terms of benefits.

Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) is calling for the preservation of the independence of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) from political influence following the recent internal issue faced by the anti-corruption body. According to TIPNG, keeping the ICAC out of political influence is crucial to restoring public confidence and ensuring it can deliver its mandate. In a media statement released today following reports of administrative issues within the ICAC, TIPNG is calling for the constitutional basis for the ICAC’s functions to investigate, arrest and prosecute corrupt conduct in Papua New Guinea (PNG), to be protected and not fall to political control. TIPNG Chair Mr. Peter Aitsi underscored the importance of ICAC's distance from politics and its administrative matters. “From the information emerging, the issues affecting the organization could be tussle for power amongst the leadership of the ICAC and seem largely administrative in nature. Papua New Guineans are justifiably right to be disappointed as we expected a greater degree of professionalism and better conduct from senior people who were appointed to a publicly funded entity such as ICAC," said Mr. Aitsi in the statement. "They were all senior and experienced individuals who should have been able to resolve these issues among themselves, rather than impacting the operations of the institution under their care."  “In light of the circumstances it is important to remember that the fundamental objective of all concerned citizens is to ensure ICAC is free of political influence. While the individual office holders might have issues, the integrity and independence of the office and its mandate must be upheld for the protection of all Papua New Guineans," he said. He said that from reports, the ICAC Appointments Committee has considered the findings received from the internal Government investigation Team and have made their decision in order to maintain stability of ICAC to suspend the incumbent commissioners and to appoint interim commissioners pending further investigations. "TIPNG remains ready to support and ensure ICAC is able to fully take up its responsibilities and deliver the results our public is demanding,” said Mr. Aitsi. The interim commissioners will be required to provide leadership and direction during this period, and it is hoped they will reinforce proper governance and provide further support to the ICAC oversight committee as they are appointed. Meanwhile, TIPNG urges the government to assess and firmly establish the findings from their internal review team and move to conclude this matter with urgency.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is on another overseas trip, this time for ten (10) days to the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK), where he will meet with business leaders and later, the King. Before his departure yesterday, the PM held a press conference at the APEC Terminal in Port Moresby city where he informed the media about his trip, stating that the visit is aimed at advancing key national interests in the extractive sector, while reinforcing Papua New Guinea’s global leadership on climate and forest conservation. “This trip has dual significance — to secure progress on major investment projects and to strengthen our global partnerships on climate action,” said Prime Minister Marape. “The energy transition is accelerating, and we must make the most of the next 20 years to responsibly harvest our oil and gas while positioning PNG as a global leader in conservation.” The Key Highlights of the Official Trip:  A meeting with ExxonMobil executives in Houston, USA to progress the Papua LNG project and discuss the sequencing of P'nyang and the Wildebeest (Western Province) gas prospects, A formal engagement with Newmont Corporation to address the Mine Development Contract (MDC) for the Wafi-Golpu project, and Participation in a small boutique session on biodiversity and climate change in the United Kingdom, hosted by His Majesty King Charles III. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso will assume the responsibilities of Acting Prime Minister during PM Marape’s absence.

Customers in Port Moresby city experienced a shortage in the supply of chicken in shops in the past week, but this is now a thing of the past with a shipload of frozen chickens arriving from Lae city on Tuesday. This Minister for Agriculture, John Boito had to clarify this in a media conference today at the Department of Agriculture office in Port Moresby city after a meeting with his team and a team from the National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA). He stated that the issue was not the production of the poultry product, but the shipment in this particular case. “It’s not the supply; the supply is okay. It’s just that we had the breakdown of the vessel, and a delay for one week. That’s why the supply in the city (Port Moresby) was short. The meeting today also called for a closer inspection on the supply and production of chicken and other poultry products to device a solution to address such cases in the future. Nevertheless, the minister urged consumers in Port Moresby city not to worry anymore as the shipment has arrived. “40 containers of frozen chickens have arrived in the city, about 345, 500 chickens,” he proudly stated. One container holds about 960 cartons of chickens, which in total would contain 8, 560 individual frozen chicken in just one container. “On behalf of the Department of Agriculture, my (Department) Secretary and the poultry industry, we like to apologize to our valued customers and clients in the city.” Meanwhile, Minister Boito said they will be visiting the productions in Lae city as a way forward to discover ways forward to avoiding such a situation from repeating. “I am taking a trip with a team from NAQIA, the Secretary and poultry industry to Lae tomorrow morning to physically go and visit Zenag and New Guinea Tablebirds to see for ourselves if we have chicken there to supply the country,” said the Minister. This is because there is a current ban on the import of chicken from Australia and Asia on the advice from NAQIA due to risks of diseases, and when there is an issue with the shipment domestically, it can result in the disruption of the supply chain and very long delays of chicken and poultry products from reach the shops and eventually the consumers. Hence, it is important to know the capacity of poultry production in PNG and where to improve on.

The recent launch of the PNG NRL bid not only creates a pathway for young Papua New Guineas to develop through the sport of rugby league, but it also creates an opportunity for economic growth in general. Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs and Defense Industry, Pat Conroy, underscored the significant impact in investments coming out of this deal between Papua New Guinea (PNG), the National Rugby League (Australia) and Canberra, once things start rolling by 2028. Speaking at the recent 40th Australia PNG Business Forum & Trade Expo in Port Moresby city, he said thousands of Australians will come to Port Moresby to watch the game that will bring investment of millions of dollars on the local Port Moresby economy. “It will grow 5, 000 jobs through the franchise through the construction of the Center for Excellence, through running the franchise. It will increase the recreational sector in PNG by 158%. So, it is truly transformational.” “It will put PNG tourism on the map in Australia like you’ve never seen before,” he said. This he said is an added benefit to what Australia already has invested in PNG, which is quite large. He illustrated this by saying that PNG is the third largest export destination of Australia. “We invest more in PNG than we do in Indonesia or India, and we are arguably your largest provider in foreign capital and our investment in PNG grows by 70 percent (%) in the last five (5) years.” “We’re spending 1 billion dollars investing in your infrastructure over the next five years. We’re providing 1.2 billion dollars in grants and loans to major capital projects and 100 million to on green energy projects.” “We’ve got connection through the 4, 700km long Coral Sea cable that connect PNG to a global internet hub in Sydney, and around 2, 000 Papua New Guineans are part of the Pacific Australia Mobility Scheme and we want that number to grow rapidly and significantly,” said the Minister. He further expressed that this is the economic context for the rugby league announcement made last year.

Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) held its Annual General Meeting yesterday where its 2024 annual report was presented to its members followed by the announcement of its new 2026 Board of Directors. A core part of the AGM business was the election of the Board of Directors and Office Bearers. Mr. Peter Aitsi was re-elected as Chairperson by TIPNG's financial members. Mr. James Lunge was elected as Board Secretary, and Ms. Michelle Hau’ofa was re-elected as Treasurer. Additionally, eight dedicated individuals were elected to serve on the board: Mary Udu, Richard Kassman, William Koregai, Christopher Elphick, Michael McWalter, Shane Kennedy, Paul Barker, and John Moore. All TIPNG Director roles are voluntary and unpaid. The Board is responsible for setting the organization's vision, articulating its purpose, and overseeing its financial performance, statutory compliance, and overall effectiveness. In welcoming the 2026 TIPNG Board Directors, Chairman Peter Aitsi underscored his anticipation for their commitment, active engagement, and invaluable contribution in advancing TIPNG’s 5-year strategic plan. “This plan focuses on bolstering campaign interventions, fostering impactful partnerships, guiding operational excellence, and building financial growth and resilience”, said Mr. Aitsi. Chairman Aitsi emphasized the importance of this commitment, particularly amidst a growing sense of impunity for corruption, declining good governance, erosion of public confidence in state integrity institutions, and a shrinking civic space. “The 2026 Board will prioritize key areas, including advocacy on electoral reform and the Freedom of Information law. We will also expand our civic engagement through the Youth Against Corruption Association and our ongoing partnerships with the Community Coalition Against Corruption, PNG Resource Governance Coalition, and the Open Government Partnership.” “TIPNG has set a new course in its Strategic Plan 2024 – 2028, not only to empower like-minded individuals and organizations but to influence them, so we can realize meaningful, collective action in minimizing corruption and improving the governance in Papua New Guinea,” said Mr. Aitsi.

Prime Minister James Marape and the President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), Ishmael Toroama, both signed the Melanesian Agreement on Thursday in Port Moresby city, marking yet again another significant step in the peace process and eventual independence that the people of Bougainville seek. The Melanesian Agreement provides a framework for the two governments to finalize consultations and prepare a report for submission to Parliament. Prime Minister Marape described it as a collaborative and conditional document that continues the journey, rather than ends it. Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the National Government’s total adherence to the constitutional process, stating that the Bougainville issue must proceed according to the provisions of the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement, now enshrined in Part XIV of the Constitution. He also acknowledged the 97.7% referendum result as clear and decisive but emphasized that the outcome must still pass through the legal pathway. “The people of Bougainville have expressed their will through the referendum, and we fully respect that. However, our Constitution outlines a clear process—we must conduct consultations and present the outcome to Parliament, which holds final decision-making authority. As Prime Minister, I cannot bypass or override that process.” “This is not an agreement to divide us—it is a roadmap to guide us through the remaining stages, grounded in constitutional integrity and mutual understanding. Our ultimate goal is to reach a destination that respects Bougainville’s aspirations while preserving the legal foundation of our nation.” Prime Minister Marape acknowledged President Toroama’s pivotal role in the peace process—from being a signatory to the original 2001 Peace Agreement to now leading Bougainville through this crucial chapter. “Your leadership at this crucial time is no accident. You bring historical wisdom and strength to a very delicate and important process.” Meanwhile, President Toroama said the signing of the Agreement marks a pivotal moment in the relations between PNG and Bougainville. “The signing of this Melanesian Agreement signals the progress of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the process towards Bougainville’s independence,” President Toroama said. “It gives us the opportunity to open another door to peace by peaceful means.” This signing is significant to the President because he believes that the Bougainville Peace Agreement is the only way to give freedom and liberty to the people of Bougainville within the national constitution framework. The ceremony was witnessed by Moderator Sir Jerry Mateparae, ministers from both governments, members of the bipartisan Parliamentary Committee on Bougainville, senior public servants, and international partners including the United Nations and foreign diplomatic missions.

The people of Bougainville through their Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) now own 72 percent (%) of Shares in Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), a momentous step towards their economic independence as the Referendum process continues. This was made a reality when the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Government through Kumul Mineral Holdings Limited along with the President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), signed the transfer of the Deed to the ABG today at the Government House in Port Moresby city. BCL is a publicly listed company in the Australian Stock Exchange and is the operator of the Panguna Mine, which has remained closed for over 30 years following a decade long civil war over the mine. Nevertheless, at present things are moving forward to a better future and relations between PNG and Bougainville, something which Prime Minister James Marape holds high regards to. He said the country has witnessed a historic and milestone moment today in the shared relationship with Bougainville. He thanked the ABG President Ishmael Toroama and his delegates for making time available to sign this important transaction between Kumul Mining and its subsidiary Eda Mineral, for and on behalf of the greater people of PNG. The signing today was also made possible with the acceptance of the National Executive Council decision by the Governor General, to transfer the 36.42% of share in BCL, to the ABG for and on behalf of the Bougainville people. “This now gives the people of Bougainville 72% share in Panguan Mine." "The BCL company is now trading at 39 cents on the stock exchange. So, all in all, convertibly to PNG Kina, it’s over K140 million worth of asset that is being transferred to our people of Bougainville." “I want to commend president Toroama’s leadership. He has been advocating very strongly with Regional Member, Minister Tsiamalili on the need to empower Bougainville," said PM Marape. Panguna Mine in the first thirteen (13) years of PNG’s nationhood from 1975 to 1987, supported the economy with over 30% of internal revenue before the other resource projects came online. Meanwhile, president Toroama expressed great appreciation to the PM and the PNG Government for finally handing over the BCL Shares to Bougainville. "I truly cherish this time honorable prime minister for giving back what belongs to the people of Bougainville,” said President Toroama. “I stand tall today because of you, honorable prime minister, in liberating my people of Bougainville. It is truly a Melanesian way of getting to know one and other.”