Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today officially launched the 2024 Papua New Guinea Investment Week, an initiative of the PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE). The event will be held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney, Australia, from December 6-11, 2024.
This newly branded event marks a significant shift from the annual PNG Resources & Energy Investment Conference and Expo, which has long been the premier international platform for stakeholders in the resources and energy sectors to engage with the Papua New Guinea government. The rebranding to PNG Investment Week reflects a broadened focus, extending beyond the resources sector to encompass a wider range of industries crucial to PNG’s economic growth.
PNG CORE anticipates that the expanded format of the traditional conference into five days of PNG-focused activities will significantly boost investment in the country. The event will now highlight opportunities in sectors such as finance, agriculture, fisheries, renewables, and infrastructure, offering a platform for international and multilateral partners to advocate for Papua New Guinea as a key investment destination.
Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude to PNG CORE President Mr. Anthony Smare and his team for the strategic shift in focus from purely resources and energy to a broader spectrum of investment opportunities.
“This new approach will be instrumental in maintaining and promoting investment in our country. The Government is fully committed to partnering in this initiative, reflecting our broader strategy to expand investment beyond the mining, petroleum, and energy sectors,” said Prime Minister Marape.
He further explained that the rebranding of the event into an ‘investment week’ allows other sector agencies, such as the National Fisheries Authority, National Forest Authority, and all agriculture agencies, to participate actively.
“This inclusive approach will enable a more comprehensive promotion of Papua New Guinea as a prime investment destination,” the Prime Minister added.
Prime Minister Marape also emphasised the importance of the mining, petroleum, and energy sectors as the cornerstone of the nation’s economy, while expressing optimism about promoting investment in other critical sectors.
“I fully commend PNG CORE for their visionary leadership and eagerly anticipate the event. The Government will provide its full support to ensure the success of this significant initiative.”