PNG Ports commits K200,000 to SEZ Summit, signals strategic shift toward industrial hub development

PNG Ports Corporation Limited is fully behind Papua New Guinea’s push for the upcoming 2nd Special Economic Zone [SEZ] Summit.

The event, which has a gold sponsorship, will be held from 30th August to 3rd September this year.

PNG Ports Chairman Harvey Nii and Chief Executive Officer Neil Papenfus officially presented the sponsorship to Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, highlighting the corporation’s commitment to driving economic transformation through trade connectivity and industrial development.

Mr. Nii said PNG Ports is sponsoring this to show it wants to help with the country’s special economic zone (SEZ) plans. It aims to connect these future business areas to the world through its 15 ports across the country.

“Lae Port alone handles around 60% of Papua New Guinea’s trade volume [99% in total], and PNG Ports is now focusing on transforming the port into a fully-fledged SEZ and industrial hub.

“This will serve as a one-stop platform for stakeholders in the supply chain, from logistics to investors,” Nii said.

He emphasized that collaboration remains one of PNG Ports’ core values, especially within the SEZ framework.

“As a critical driver of economic activity, PNG Ports aims to attract investment, enhance trade logistics, and promote inclusive economic growth. Our support for the SEZ Summit is a reaffirmation of our role in enabling infrastructure and deepening partnerships—with government, development partners, and international investors alike. This aligns with our national strategies including Vision 2050 and the Medium-Term Development Plan,” he added.

Minister Maru said PNG Ports is a vital partner in the country’s trade and economic transformation, and of course, the SEZ agenda.

“Ports are the strength of our trade economy. PNG Ports is not just a service provider, it’s a strategic economic player,” Maru said.

“We need PNG Ports to remain efficient, make bold decisions, and be supported to grow in its role.”

As a gold sponsor, PNG Ports will receive five full-access passes to the Summit, and will also deliver a key 30-minute presentation to showcase its future plans and upcoming SEZ developments.