AGP Executive Report

Kokoda Track Revamp: NCD Governor Powes Parkop renewed calls to revitalise the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA), pushing for it to sit under the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority so the trail finally delivers direct benefits to landowners, while also committing K200,000 for Kokoda Primary School. Police Recruitment Drive: The Royal PNG Constabulary is taking its recruitment awareness programme to West Sepik, helping rural youth understand online applications as it targets nearly 700 recruits nationwide. PNG Chiefs NRL Build-Up: Prime Minister James Marape says the new PNG Chiefs franchise is about nation-building and Pacific unity, with plans for a dedicated Chiefs Village in Port Moresby to boost tourism and services ahead of the 2028 NRL entry. Air Connectivity: Solomon Airlines is set to launch a scheduled Port Moresby–Honiara service next Tuesday, aiming to grow tourism and business travel between the two countries. Regional Tourism Trade: SPTO’s South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026 delivered record participation and business meetings, with PNG expanding from one seller in 2025 to seven in 2026. Tourism Skills Boost: SPTO wrapped up a Pacific Tourism Data Initiative workshop in Nadi, training PNG and other Pacific officers to strengthen tourism research and evidence-based planning. Community & Heritage: KDDA donated K10,000 toward the 141st anniversary Catholic mission commemoration on Yule Island, a major pilgrimage draw for thousands of visitors. Health Travel Support: Operation Open Heart Foundation and Air Niugini formalised their long-running partnership to keep supporting children’s heart screenings and travel for life-saving surgery. Underwater Tourism Inspiration: A new underwater photography gallery highlights marine life and photography techniques, offering a fresh way to spark interest in PNG’s ocean experiences.

Aviation & Tourism Boost: Solomon Airlines is set to launch a new scheduled Port Moresby–Honiara service next Tuesday, aiming to make travel easier for tourists, business travellers and families across the two capitals. Airport Upgrade: PNG has officially launched the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, with runway upgrades and expanded terminals planned over four phases to support trade, tourism and long-term growth. Cruise Travel: Pearl Expeditions’ Paspaley Pearl is positioned as a game-changer for travel in the Kimberley, with itineraries that can include Papua New Guinea and a Kimberley 11-day trip from about $18,500 per person. Digital Readiness for PNG: The EU-backed PNG Forest Authority received new video-conferencing and communications equipment to cut costs and improve coordination between headquarters and 22 provincial offices. Connectivity & Skills: Russell Harada shared a vision for a digitally empowered PNG, while a separate push for financial inclusion in Wau Waria adds a new Mama Bank Access Point and training for community trainers. Health & Community Travel: Air Niugini and Operation Open Heart formalised their long-running partnership to support children’s heart care, including provincial screening travel and complimentary flights for surgery referrals. Sports Tourism Build-Up: PM Marape backed family facilities at the PNG Chiefs Village, with Port Moresby preparing for more visitors as the NRL era approaches. Safety & Travel Disruption Watch: PNG election security preparations for 2027 are underway with a joint workshop between the Electoral Commission and police. Wildlife & Nature Travel: A guide to New Guinea highlights why the island is a top adventure destination, from rainforests to the Highlands.

Aviation & Tourism Boost: Solomon Airlines is set to launch the first direct scheduled service between Port Moresby and Honiara next Tuesday, aiming to grow tourism, business travel and people-to-people links. Airport Upgrade: PNG has officially kicked off the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, a multi-phase plan to modernise terminals and runway capacity and support long-term trade and tourism growth. Digital Services (EU-Funded): The EU-backed Forestry-Climate Change-Biodiversity programme has handed PNG Forest Authority new video-conferencing and communications gear to cut costs and improve coordination with 22 provincial offices. Sports & Community Facilities: Prime Minister James Marape backed plans for family-focused upgrades at the PNG Chiefs Village, including a school, as Port Moresby prepares for more visitors ahead of the NRL in 2028. Health & Travel Support: Operation Open Heart Foundation and Air Niugini formalised a renewed partnership to keep provincial heart screening and complimentary travel for children and guardians running. Connectivity & Safety: Pacific Towing responded to two engine-failure emergencies in PNG and Solomon Islands waters, towing vessels to safe anchorage. Digital Caution: A local warning urges PNG to move into the digital age carefully, highlighting phishing and fraud risks for people with limited tech support.

Aviation & Tourism Boost: Solomon Airlines is set to launch a scheduled Port Moresby–Honiara service next Tuesday (July 7), the first direct link under its network expansion—expected to make travel easier for tourists, business travellers and families across the two capitals. Airport Upgrade for Connectivity: PNG has officially launched the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, a multi-phase plan to modernise terminals and upgrade runways to support trade, tourism and long-term growth. Health Travel & Community Care: Air Niugini and Operation Open Heart Foundation have signed a new Corporate Responsibility MOU to keep funding life-saving cardiac screening and surgery travel for children around Papua New Guinea. Regional Safety & Planning: PNG is running election security workshops ahead of the 2027 National General Election, focusing on coordination between the Electoral Commission and police at all levels. Local Banking Access: Wau Waria in Morobe has reopened formal banking services with a new Mama Bank Access Point plus a three-year push to improve financial inclusion and skills. Culture & Sports Spotlight: Table tennis in PNG is getting a boost as the Hila brothers train in Shanghai with Team PNG, while Port Moresby hosts Asian Community Day to strengthen inclusion and social cohesion. Science & Travel Curiosity: A new explainer highlights how PNG’s megapodes incubate eggs using natural heat sources near volcanoes—an unusual wildlife story for eco-travellers.

Medical Travel Homecoming: Baby Sawong Kevin Mitian, one half of PNG’s conjoined twins, has returned to Port Moresby after six months in Australia for separation surgery—an emotional milestone backed by PNG and Australian medical and aviation teams. Air Connectivity for Families: Air Niugini and Operation Open Heart Foundation formalised their long-running partnership, keeping flights and provincial cardiac screening travel in place for children needing surgery. Maritime Safety: Pacific Towing coordinated emergency towage after engine failures involving MV Khawaii in PNG waters and MV Wealth near the Solomon Islands, with vessels brought to safe anchorage. Airport Upgrade: PNG launched the K2.5b Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment to modernise terminals and runway capacity and boost tourism and regional connectivity. New Regional Flight: Solomon Airlines is set to start scheduled Port Moresby–Honiara service next Tuesday, aiming to lift tourism and business travel between the capitals. Tourism Governance: Central Bougainville Tourism Association patron Peter Tsiamalili Jr congratulated Zhon Bosco Miriona on completing the PNG Institute of Directors Director Development Program. Health Infrastructure: Work continues on the K65m Koroba Level 4 District Hospital in Hela, bringing specialist care closer to remote communities. Digital Safety Warning: A new push into the digital age is raising concerns about scams and phishing risks for travellers and rural communities.

Aviation & Tourism: Solomon Airlines will launch scheduled Port Moresby–Honiara flights next Tuesday (July 7), boosting travel links between Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands for tourists, business travellers and families. Infrastructure & Connectivity: PNG has officially kicked off the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, a multi-phase upgrade aimed at modern terminals and runway improvements to strengthen PNG’s aviation hub role for the next 50 years. Health & Access: A breakthrough emergency caesarean at Pomio District Hospital saved a mother and twin babies, highlighting how stronger district services can cut dangerous referral delays for remote communities. Education: Tubusereia Junior High School in Central Province says teacher housing is still the biggest hurdle, with most staff renting outside and facing absenteeism pressures. Community Finance: Wau Waria District in Morobe has reopened formal banking access with a new Mama Bank Access Point plus a three-year push for financial education. Sport & National Pride: Former NRL star Matthew Johns calls PNG’s 2028 NRL entry “long overdue,” praising the country’s deep rugby league passion. Travel Feature: A travel guide spotlights Papua New Guinea as the world’s second-largest island, pitching it for adventurous explorers. Regional Watch: Deep sea mining groups warn radioactive material could enter the marine food chain, with Papua New Guinea among the countries raising concerns.

New Air Route: Solomon Airlines is set to launch a scheduled Port Moresby–Honiara service next Tuesday (July 7), boosting PNG–Solomons connectivity for tourism, business travel and family visits. Airport Upgrade: PNG has officially launched the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, a multi-phase plan to modernise terminals and runways and support long-term growth in trade and tourism. Health Access in the Highlands: Work continues on the K65 million Level 4 Koroba District Hospital in Hela, bringing specialist services closer to remote communities. Community Banking: Wau Waria District in Morobe has reopened formal banking with a new Mama Bank Access Point and a three-year partnership focused on financial education. Regional Cooperation: PNG and the Solomon Islands have signed a 2026–2030 economic and development framework covering trade, infrastructure and security. Tourism & Culture Events: Asian Community Day is underway in Port Moresby, highlighting inclusion and cultural exchange. Airline Medical Support: Air Niugini renewed its long-running Operation Open Heart Foundation partnership to keep flying children with heart disease and their guardians to Port Moresby for treatment. Safety Watch: Anti-deep sea mining groups warn radioactive risks could enter the food chain if deep sea mining expands.

Airport Upgrade Boost: Papua New Guinea has launched the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, rolling out in four phases over six and a half years to expand terminals, upgrade runways and strengthen trade, tourism and connectivity. New Hospital for Remote Hela: Construction is progressing on the K65 million Koroba Level 4 District Hospital in Hela, with extra workers added to speed delivery of specialist care for remote communities. Regional Air Links: Solomon Airlines starts scheduled flights between Port Moresby and Honiara from July 7, giving travellers a new direct route for tourism, business and family travel. Mining Camp Built Faster: Ark Pacific has delivered a turnkey prefabricated construction camp for Santos’ Agogo APF tie-in project in Enga, designed to cut on-site work in a remote area. Healthcare by Air: Air Niugini renews its long-running support for Operation Open Heart, continuing flights for children needing specialist heart treatment. Culture & Community: Asian Community Day is set to strengthen inclusion in Port Moresby with performances, food and exhibitions. Wildlife Wonder: Megapodes in PNG incubate eggs using natural heat sources, including volcanic warmth, rather than sitting on eggs. Tourism Numbers: PNG tourism contributed about US$244m in 2025 as arrivals recovered, though average spending per visitor dipped.

Airport Upgrade: Papua New Guinea has officially launched the K2.5 billion Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, a multi-phase plan to modernise runways and expand domestic and international terminals to boost tourism, trade and connectivity. New Route for Travellers: Solomon Airlines starts scheduled flights between Port Moresby and Honiara on July 7, giving the first direct service between the two capitals and making it easier for tourists and families to travel. Regional Links: PNG and the Solomon Islands have signed a 2026–2030 cooperation framework covering trade, infrastructure, security and economic development. Healthcare Access: Work continues on the K65 million Level 4 Koroba District Hospital in Hela, with extra workers added to speed delivery of specialist services for remote communities. Rural Medical Milestone: Pomio District Hospital performed its first emergency caesarean section, with twin babies delivered and the mother saved—highlighting the value of stronger district hospitals. Tourism Numbers: PNG’s tourism sector generated about US$244m in 2025 as arrivals recovered, though average spending per visitor dipped. Aviation Support for Care: Air Niugini renewed its long-running partnership with Operation Open Heart to keep flying children with heart disease and their guardians to specialist treatment. Culture & Community: Asian Community Day was launched in Port Moresby to celebrate inclusion, culture and shared contributions to the city’s growth. Wildlife Note: A wildlife explainer highlights how PNG’s megapodes incubate eggs using natural heat sources, including volcanic warmth.

Air Niugini & Heart Care: Air Niugini has renewed its long-running support for Operation Open Heart, securing flights for children with heart disease and their guardians so remote families can reach Port Moresby General Hospital for specialist surgery. Health in the districts: Pomio District Hospital carried out PNG’s first emergency caesarean section of its kind, with the PM calling it a breakthrough for rural emergency care that avoids dangerous long referral trips. Labour mobility: Bougainville’s labour mobility pathway is shifting as the Labour Mobility Program transitions to the ABG, with more Bougainvilleans already sent to Australia and New Zealand for work and skills. PNG–Solomon Islands cooperation: A new bilateral framework signed in Port Moresby sets a 2026–2030 roadmap across trade, infrastructure, security and regional priorities. Tourism numbers: PNG tourism contributed about US$244m in 2025 as arrivals recovered, though average spending per visitor fell. Culture & community: Asian Community Day launched in Port Moresby to boost inclusion, while the Sel Kambang Festival in Ningerum showcased Yongom traditions through dance. Safety & training: SP Brewery delivered Responsible Service of Alcohol training to tourism and hospitality students in Port Moresby. Regional travel context: Cruise lines are increasingly selling specific travel styles (wellness, expedition, river and destination-led itineraries) rather than one-size-fits-all cruises.

Gender & Safety: A new global look at violence against women puts Papua New Guinea among the worst places for intimate partner sexual and domestic violence, with abuse often normalized—an issue that matters for travellers too, especially in how communities and services respond. Community & Culture in Port Moresby: Asian Community Day was launched in Port Moresby to boost inclusion and social cohesion, with cultural performances, food and exhibitions from multiple Asian communities. Air Niugini Health Support: Air Niugini renewed its long-running heart care partnership with Operation Open Heart, keeping flights available for children needing specialist surgery and provincial screening teams. Tourism Numbers: PNG tourism contributed about US$244m to the economy in 2025 as visitor arrivals recovered, even as average spending per trip eased. Health in the Regions: Pomio District Hospital performed PNG’s first emergency caesarean of its kind, a milestone for rural access to urgent care. Infrastructure for Access: Four new bridges across Madang, New Ireland, West Sepik and West New Britain are restoring safer routes to schools, clinics and markets. Labour Mobility: Bougainville’s labour mobility pipeline continues under Australia and New Zealand schemes, with recruitment hubs and training feeding jobs abroad. Wildlife & Bird Flu Watch: H5N1 detections in Australia’s seabirds are prompting ongoing testing and heightened attention to poultry and wildlife risks, with PNG-linked import restrictions referenced in the wider region.

Gender-Based Violence Focus: A new global roundup flags Papua New Guinea as one of the worst places for intimate partner and sexual violence, with estimates that around two-thirds of women experience sexual violence and many normalize abuse—an urgent reminder for safer communities. Port Moresby Inclusion: Asian Community Day was launched in Port Moresby to strengthen belonging and social cohesion, celebrating PNG’s diversity through performances, food and cultural exhibitions. Health & Travel Access: Air Niugini renews its long-running heart care support with Operation Open Heart, keeping flights available for children needing specialist treatment in Port Moresby. Rural Medical Milestone: Pomio District Hospital performed PNG’s first emergency obstetric caesarean of its kind, saving a mother and delivering twin babies—showing the value of upgraded district services. Tourism Numbers: PNG tourism contributed about US$244m to the economy in 2025 as arrivals recovered, though average spending per visitor dipped. Regional Cooperation: PNG and Solomon Islands signed a 2026–2030 framework covering trade, infrastructure, security and development. Bird Flu Watch: Australia’s H5N1 detections in migratory seabirds continue, with authorities stressing no spread to poultry or local wildlife so far—relevant for PNG’s biosecurity planning. Skills for Hospitality: SP Brewery delivered Responsible Service of Alcohol training to tourism and hospitality students in Port Moresby, boosting safer service standards.

Inclusion in Port Moresby: Asian Community Day launched today in the capital, bringing together Filipino, Indian, Malaysian, Chinese and Bangladesh communities with cultural performances, food and exhibitions—aimed at strengthening social cohesion and making Port Moresby a more liveable, inclusive city. Medical travel support: Air Niugini renewed its long-running heart care partnership with Operation Open Heart, securing flights for children needing specialist treatment and for provincial screening teams—helping families reach Port Moresby General Hospital. Health breakthrough in Pomio: PNG’s first emergency caesarean section at Pomio District Hospital saved a mother and delivered twin babies, highlighting the push to upgrade rural facilities so people don’t have to travel far for urgent care. Labour mobility update: Bougainvilleans continue heading to Australia and New Zealand under the PALM and NZ Recognised Seasonal Employer schemes, with the ARoB recruitment hub transitioning toward ABG operation. PNG–Solomons cooperation: A new bilateral framework signed in Port Moresby sets a 2026–2030 roadmap across investment, trade, infrastructure, security and regional cooperation. Tourism numbers: PNG tourism contributed about US$244m in 2025 as arrivals recovered, though average spending per visitor dipped. Access and infrastructure: Four new bridges across Madang, New Ireland, West Sepik and West New Britain are restoring safer routes to schools, health services and markets. Education upgrades: New student accommodation for Divine Word University medical students in Lae and talks on international partnerships are expanding higher education opportunities. Culture on the move: Yongom dancers from the border region performed at the Sel Kambang Festival in Ningerum, keeping traditions alive through community travel and events. SME spotlight: Alotau SMEs showcased locally made products at PNG SME Week Agritrade Expo in Port Moresby, seeking bigger markets beyond their communities. Bird flu watch (regional): PNG’s earlier move to halt Australian poultry imports is echoed by ongoing H5N1 detections in Australia’s migratory seabirds, with authorities warning more cases may appear.

Tourism Economy: Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector generated an estimated US$244m in 2025 as international arrivals edged up to 103,881, though average spend per visitor fell—good news for recovery, but a reminder that travellers are spending less. Airport Access: Kiunga Airport runway restrictions are set to continue as the upgrade project hits 48% completion; RPT services remain suspended until remaining works finish and safety checks are cleared. Health & Community Travel: A new level-three health centre in Gasmata (West New Britain) is a milestone for safer access, while four newly built bridges across Madang, New Ireland, West Sepik and West New Britain are restoring reliable routes to schools, clinics, markets and daily life. Skills for Hospitality: SP Brewery delivered Responsible Service of Alcohol training to Mapex tourism and hospitality students, boosting professionalism for the visitor economy. Bird Flu Watch: PNG has suspended Australian poultry imports after H5N1 detections in Australia, as more cases are tested and authorities urge vigilance.

Avian Health & Travel Disruption: Papua New Guinea has suspended imports of Australian poultry products after H5N1 bird flu was detected in wild seabirds in Australia, with authorities warning more cases may appear—an issue that could affect cross-border food supply and visitor confidence. Air Access Update: Kiunga Airport’s runway restrictions remain in place as the upgrade project hits 48% completion; RPT flights are still suspended while works continue, though general aviation can operate under NOTAMs. Tourism Numbers: PNG tourism contributed an estimated US$244m to the economy in 2025 as arrivals recovered, even as average spending per visitor dipped—good news for operators planning the next season. Culture & Visitor Pull: The Sel Kambang Festival in North Fly continues to draw crowds, with Yongom dancers travelling by bush tracks and river crossings to keep traditions alive and showcase local identity. Skills for Hospitality: SP Brewery delivered Responsible Service of Alcohol training to Mapex tourism and hospitality students, boosting professional standards for PNG’s visitor-facing workforce. Infrastructure for Getting Around: Four new bridges across Madang, New Ireland, West Sepik and West New Britain are restoring safer access to schools, health services, markets and daily transport routes.

PNG Tourism Update: Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector contributed an estimated US$244m to the economy in 2025, with arrivals rising to 103,881 even as average spending per visitor dipped. Aviation & Access: Kiunga Airport runway restrictions are set to continue during upgrades (48% complete), with RPT services still suspended until further works and safety checks are cleared. Health & Community Infrastructure: Four new bridges across Madang, New Ireland, West Sepik and West New Britain are restoring safer access to schools, health services and markets, while a K20m Gasmata level-three health centre marks a major milestone for remote care. Culture & Events: The Sel Kambang Festival in Ningerum brought Yongom dancers from North Fly to share traditions, and the 5th festival was officially opened with performances and welcomes for visitors. Business & Skills: SP Brewery delivered Responsible Service of Alcohol training to tourism and hospitality students, and Alotau SMEs showcased locally made products at the PNG SME Week Agritrade Expo. Education: New facilities and international links are expanding higher education, including a new medical student dormitory at Angau Memorial Hospital. Wildlife & Travel Risk: PNG suspended imports of Australian poultry and eggs after H5 bird flu detections in Australia, with more testing underway.