AGP Executive Report

Workplace Safety Push: A new Pacific online campaign launched by Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, with PNG’s Business Coalition for Women and partners, is calling for an end to violence and harassment at work, citing alarming PNG figures where 71% of women surveyed reported workplace harassment or violence, and urging governments to ratify and enforce ILO Convention 190. SME Super-Cycle Prep: BSP is urging PNG small and medium businesses to build capability now to cash in on the coming resource project “super-cycle,” pointing to major LNG, copper and energy developments and BSP’s K1.2b modernisation push. Oil Milestone: Santos says first oil from its Pikka Phase 1 project in Alaska is now imminent, marking a major production start. Roads to Growth: PM Marape says Connect PNG and the West New Britain road corridor are already linking transport to agriculture expansion, with oil palm growing along improved routes. Fuel Subsidy Tension: PNG CORE says fuel suppliers will shift back to market-based pricing after subsidy reimbursement delays, while NCD Governor Parkop insists there’s no shortage and disruptions are being handled. Energy Transition Angle: Kumul Petroleum is looking to develop smaller gas discoveries alongside PNG LNG as the country navigates the energy transition.

Energy Transition & Gas: Kumul Petroleum says PNG has plenty of gas, but “short of time” as it pushes smaller discoveries toward commercial development, including talks over licences such as PDL10 in Western Province. Mining & Finance: Harmony reports a strong Q3 and stays on track for full-year gold and copper guidance, while Ok Tedi’s Misima Minerals delivered food supplies to Misima PNG Correctional Services. SME Push: TISA Bank held an SME road show in Alotau, and BSP urged SMEs to build capability now to benefit from PNG’s coming resource “super-cycle.” Fuel Shock Watch: PNG CORE says fuel suppliers will move to market-based pricing from May 15 after subsidy reimbursement delays, while NCD Governor Parkop insists there’s no fuel shortage. Urban & Ocean Agenda: ADB and NCD discussed Port Moresby investments, and PNG used the Melanesian Ocean Summit to renew commitments to the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves.

Fuel Crisis Watch: PNG CORE says fuel suppliers will shift back to market-based pricing after delays in government fuel-subsidy reimbursements, warning some service stations may face disruptions even as it insists there’s no shortage. Political Stability: Prime Minister James Marape welcomed PNG’s Supreme Court ruling upholding the constitutional amendment that blocks repeated no-confidence motions after one fails. Regional Diplomacy: Marape is set for a France state visit (May 19–21) to deepen ties across diplomacy, defence, climate and business, while PNG also moves to strengthen cooperation with the newly elected Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale. Health & Services: International paediatric surgeon Professor Paddy Dewan has arrived to review serious child cases in Port Moresby, and the Teaching Service Commission launched its corporate plan, development plan and official website to modernise teacher support. Connectivity: TelkomGroup inaugurated the Pukpuk submarine cable system, boosting cross-border digital links between Indonesia and PNG.

Fuel Subsidy Fallout: PNG CORE says fuel suppliers will shift back to market-based pricing from May 15 after months of delayed government reimbursements under the subsidy scheme—raising the risk of short-term retail disruptions even as it insists there’s no shortage. PM Warns Bureaucrats: Prime Minister James Marape has threatened sackings over the delays, pointing to K576m sitting in a Central Bank trust account and K246m already released, but not moving fast enough to keep service stations running. NCD Assurances: NCD Governor Powes Parkop counters panic in Port Moresby, saying Marape has assured him supplies are adequate and the price issue will be fixed today. City Development Push: Parkop also met the ADB’s new country director to line up future work on transport, affordable housing, water and sanitation for the capital. Regional Politics: Marape congratulated Solomon Islands’ new PM Matthew Wale, pledging continued cooperation on security, fisheries, labour mobility and infrastructure.

Fuel Subsidy Fallout: PNG CORE says fuel suppliers will revert to market-based pricing after reimbursement delays, warning some outlets could be hit even as it insists there’s no shortage; the shift is effective May 15, 2026, following government efforts to keep prices at April levels. PM Pushback: Prime Minister James Marape has threatened sackings over subsidy payment delays, pointing to K576m sitting in a Central Bank trust account and K246m already released, while service stations reportedly shut temporarily. NCD Assurance: NCD Governor Powes Parkop counters panic in Port Moresby, saying Marape has assured him supplies are adequate and price issues will be fixed today. City Development: Parkop also met the ADB to map Port Moresby priorities—transport, affordable housing, and water and sanitation. Education Oversight: UNITECH is tightening controls on student subsidy funds with a planned MOU to improve district-supported fee management. Regional Politics: Marape congratulated Solomon Islands’ new PM Matthew Wale, pledging continued cooperation on security, fisheries, and infrastructure.

Fuel Shock Watch: PNG’s fuel market is set to get pricier after suppliers said they’ll revert to market-based pricing from May 15, blaming delays in government subsidy reimbursements—while NCD Governor Powes Parkop insists there’s no shortage. Regional Politics: PNG PM James Marape welcomed the Solomon Islands’ peaceful leadership change after Matthew Wale was elected PM, pledging continued cooperation on security, climate resilience and regional unity. Connectivity Boost: TelkomGroup officially launched the Pukpuk submarine cable in Papua, aiming to strengthen cross-border digital links. Education Reform: The Teaching Service Commission rolled out a corporate plan, development plan and a new website as it pushes digital transformation for teachers nationwide. Sports: Nigeria’s Falconets drew Spain, China and New Caledonia for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

Fuel Assurance: NCD Governor Powes Parkop says there’s no fuel shortage in Port Moresby or nationwide, citing firm assurances from PM James Marape and quick fixes for any temporary disruptions. Regional Politics: Marape congratulated Solomon Islands’ new PM Matthew Wale after his parliamentary election, pledging continued PNG cooperation on security, climate resilience, economic growth and unity. Connectivity Push: TelkomGroup has inaugurated the Pukpuk Pukpuk 1 submarine cable, a new cross-border digital link involving PNG stakeholders. Education Reform: The Teaching Service Commission launched its corporate plan, teacher development plan and an official website to modernise education administration and improve services for teachers. Court & Stability: Marape welcomed the Supreme Court’s dismissal of a challenge to the no-confidence motions amendment, calling it a win for long-term political stability. Maritime Security: The US warned Pacific illegal fishing and drug networks are exploiting enforcement gaps, and pledged expanded security funding and surveillance. Business & Finance: K92 Mining reported record Q1 results as Kainantu expansion progresses, while TISA Bank ramps up SME outreach and opens a new Enga branch.

Worker Benefits Backlash (US): TTEC, Deloitte and Zoom are cutting employee perks—like 401(k) matches, parental leave and family-planning reimbursements—while citing cost pressures and AI investment. Gold Market Snapshot: China remains top gold producer, but Africa’s share is rising fast, with Ghana and Mali among key players. Business Leadership: Andrew Cairns has been appointed President of the Australia–Papua New Guinea Business Council, pushing closer trade and investment links. Education Digital Push: PNG’s Teaching Service Commission launched its corporate plan, teacher development plan and an official website to modernise services. Politics & Stability: Prime Minister James Marape welcomed a Supreme Court ruling upholding the no-confidence amendment, saying it protects long-term stability. Gas & Energy Outlook: Kumul Petroleum says PNG’s gas future is just starting beyond big LNG projects. Ocean Protection Momentum: PNG signed intent steps toward a Western Manus Marine Protected Area, aligning fisheries protection with the 30-by-30 goal. Diplomacy Moves: Marape announced PNG will open new embassies across the Pacific, including the Marshall Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu.

Oil & Gas: First sellable oil from Santos’ Pikka field in Alaska is “imminent,” with the operator giving journalists a look at the Nanushuk Processing Facility—another milestone for a North Slope project billed as the biggest in decades. PNG Politics: Prime Minister James Marape says PNG’s Supreme Court ruling upholding Constitutional Amendment No.48 is a win for stability, blocking repeated motions of no confidence after failed attempts. Ocean Economy & Security: At the Melanesian Ocean Summit, PNG pushed deeper protection—signing intent for the Western Manus Marine Protected Area and announcing a Western Manus National Marine Sanctuary—while the US warned illegal fishing and drug networks are exploiting Pacific maritime gaps. Regional Diplomacy: PNG is expanding its diplomatic footprint with planned embassies across the Pacific (Marshall Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu) and a sister-province partnership with Cook Islands’ Central ties. Mining & Finance: K92 Mining posted record Q1 results as Kainantu expansion progresses; TISA Bank rolled out direct yuan settlements for PNG-China trade and continues SME outreach.

Ocean Security Push: The U.S. says illegal fishing and Pacific drug routes are exploiting enforcement gaps, and it’s moving to expand maritime security funding and surveillance after warning that synthetic drugs are being funnelled through trade lanes. Marine Protection: PNG is advancing its 30-by-30 plan with a Western Manus “no-take” marine sanctuary proposal covering about 214,000 sq km, plus a ministerial intent signed at the Melanesian Ocean Summit. Banking for Trade & SMEs: TISA Bank is rolling out direct yuan settlement for PNG-China payments, and it’s also expanding SME support via an Alotau road show and a new Wabag branch in Enga. Energy & Governance: K92 Mining reports record Q1 results as Kainantu expansion progresses, while Kumul Petroleum announces a board chair handover effective May 19. Politics & Accountability: PNG failed to respond to a UN inquiry on SABL and FCA logging licences by an April 17 deadline. Business & People: Ok Tedi donates K1.25m for Cyclone Maila relief and awards 2026 undergraduate scholarships.

Western Manus protection: PNG’s Fisheries and Environment ministers signed a ministerial intent to establish the Western Manus Marine Protected Area at the Melanesian Ocean Summit, tying conservation to fisheries management and the 30-by-30 goal. Education digital push: The Teaching Service Commission launched a corporate plan, development plan and a new website to modernise teacher administration after decades of manual records. SEZ momentum: Central Province’s Caution Bay Industrial Park got a 12-month provisional developer license under conditions set by the SEZA board. Trade made easier: TISA Bank rolled out direct yuan settlement for PNG businesses trading with China, cutting extra currency steps and delays. Blue economy debate: Researchers and ministers at the summit kept pressing for local science and practical ocean value—while a new study warns nickel mining for EVs can damage forests and wildlife. Diplomacy expansion: Marape announced PNG will open embassies in the Marshall Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu, deepening Pacific ties.

Melanesian Ocean Summit Momentum: PNG’s ocean push is accelerating fast: the Western Manus National Marine Sanctuary is set as a “no-take” protected area covering 214,000 sq km, and PNG is also planning a Pacific-led Innovation Forum to turn tuna stewardship into investable action. Diplomacy & Embassies: PNG and Timor-Leste agreed to open reciprocal embassies, while PNG says it will open new missions in the Marshall Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu to deepen trade and regional decision-making. Ocean Governance Clash: The Solomon Islands declined to endorse a new regional ocean declaration, arguing customary governance and constitutional due process must lead. Local Science Call: Professors Saulei and Kaluwin urged PNG to fund and trust its own researchers, pointing to local findings on the world’s warmest ocean waters and rising climate impacts. Trade & Finance: TISA Bank launched direct yuan settlements for PNG-China payments, aiming to cut delays and costs. Business & Community: Ok Tedi backed Milne Bay cyclone relief with K1.25m and added 21 undergraduate scholarships, while PNG’s Sandaun Technical & Teachers College moves toward construction.

Rugby Recruitment Buzz: Incoming Wallabies coach Les Kiss says he’s not surprised by talk linking Reds star Treyvon Pritchard to the NRL’s new PNG Chiefs franchise, praising the 19-year-old’s character and coachability while warning there are “machinations beneath the radar.” Ocean Policy Push: Prime Minister James Marape and Fiji’s Sitiveni Rabuka are both in the spotlight at the Melanesian Oceans Summit, with PNG’s fisheries minister urging protection that strengthens livelihoods and backing “30 by 30” and a Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Reserves. Energy Deal: Santos has taken a final investment decision to progress the Agogo production facility tie-in to PNG LNG, targeting first gas in 2Q28 and adding about 135 mscf/d gross capacity. Governance Shock: A Defence trust account has been frozen over missing millions, while Marape rejects “slush fund” and election manipulation claims. Health & People: PNG hosts a social protection conference; a PNG nurse is a finalist in a global nursing award; and BSP Life PNG reports K3.5m in survival payouts for health workers.

Cyclone Maila Relief: UPNG Milne Bay students have raised over K1,600 and collected medical and relief supplies for affected communities, after reports of shortages and damaged health facilities. Pacific Climate Funding: Australia pledged $100m to the Pacific Resilience Fund, while the U.S. says it has helped Pacific Island countries unlock US$0.5b for climate action. PNG Connectivity Push: Starlink says it will open a PNG office within 12 months of its licence, aiming to boost rural and underserved coverage. Energy Investment: Santos has taken a final investment decision for the Agogo Production Facility tie-in to PNG LNG, targeting first gas in Q2 2028. Governance Watch: Defence Force’s K20m investment into the National Banking Corporation is sparking debate over Defence commercial fund governance and transparency. Health Sector Planning: NEFC and key agencies will run a major health costing study for Provincial Health Authorities starting July 2026. Business & Community: Pride of PNG Women Awards returns with nominations open, while Digicel PNG’s CEO steps down and Starlink, Santos, and K92 all signal major activity in their lanes.

Digicel Leadership Shake-up: Digicel PNG CEO Tarik Boudiaf is stepping down after nearly two years, with CFO Brett Goschen taking over as acting CEO while a permanent successor is recruited. Justice Update: PNG Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika has been cleared of wrongdoing after the Ombudsman Commission’s referral was rejected for “insufficient evidence,” ending a long-running income-declaration dispute. Health Workers Benefit: BSP Life PNG says 1,500+ health workers will receive K3.5m in survival payouts under the Wantok Delite product, marking a major milestone for insurance participation. Ocean Diplomacy in Motion: Prime Minister Marape is driving Pacific unity at the Melanesian Oceans Summit in Port Moresby, calling for stronger action to protect oceans as leaders push climate resilience and marine protection. Security Crackdown: Joint operations in Enga intensified against alcohol-fuelled crime, with arrests and 57 cartons of SP beer seized. Cost-of-Living Fight: Fiji’s business groups back opposition to an $8 hourly living wage, warning it could strain employers and the wider economy. PNG–China Trade Step: PNG says a China–PNG framework agreement is finalized, with signing expected next week ahead of CEPA talks.

PNG–China Trade Push: PNG has finalized a Framework Agreement with China, with signing set for next week in Suzhou—opening the path to a CEPA covering trade, investment, customs, digital trade and SME support. Digital Governance: NICTA has sworn in its new acting CEO, Polume Lume, who says the regulator will tackle governance gaps, enforcement failures and rebuild public trust as PNG heads into a digital future. Diplomacy & Regional Ties: PNG and Timor-Leste plan to open embassies in each other’s capitals after Port Moresby talks, while PNG and the US deepen security and economic cooperation and the US backs satellite internet connectivity. Financial Stability: The Bank of PNG endorsed an Emergency Liquidity Assistance framework to help banks handle short-term liquidity stress in a controlled, transparent way. Connectivity as Strategy: Pacific energy and transport ministers ended PRETMM6 with the Manubada Call to Action—shifting from promises to implementation on renewables and maritime connectivity. Blue Pacific Focus: The Melanesian Ocean Conference is underway, with the Pacific Ocean Litter Project targeting plastic waste and stronger rules on single-use plastics. Local Wins: The UPNG–ANU partnership renewal highlights growing capacity in economics and public policy education, while retailers report a post-riot rebound and Manus Admiralty secured K1.5m for its PSL campaign.