AGP Executive Report

Hotel & Tourism Leadership: Hotel Council Aotearoa has appointed Alistair Crozier as chief executive, starting September 28, bringing 25+ years of leadership and diplomacy, including a previous role as executive director of the New Zealand China Council. Marine Discovery for PNG: Researchers on the Sepik River have rediscovered the spinach pipefish, a relative of the seahorse, after more than 40 years, relying on local fishers’ sightings across a vast 700-mile river system. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Pacific leaders head into the Pacific Islands Forum with unity calls, but tough talks loom over a joint response to China’s missile test, expected to be debated at the summit in Palau from 30 August to 4 September. Transport & Travel Gear in PNG: Ela Motors has introduced the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 petrol hybrid to its PNG lineup, touting a 3.5-litre twin-turbo hybrid setup and longer-distance capability for road and remote travel. PNG–Solomons Investment Push: PNG and Solomon Islands are driving a “growth corridor” agenda, with leaders urging a structured, bankable economic partnership and stronger business-to-business links. Health & Visitor Impact: Kumul Petroleum Holdings reports progress on PMGH’s new cancer and heart facilities, while ordering a review of a stalled surgical ward project. Cruise Tourism: Silversea’s Grand South Pacific Expedition 2026 departs Fremantle on a 77-day route calling at 57 destinations across 11 countries, including stops in Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific.

Women in Law & Learning Grants: The Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation named Women Leaders in Law Fellows and Travel and Learning Award recipients, backing legal professionals with study and international connections. PNG Mobility Milestone: Ela Motors marked more than six decades in Papua New Guinea with the official unveiling of the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux, pitching it as a step up in capability, tech, comfort and safety for PNG roads and work sites. Cruise & Expedition Travel: Silversea launched its 77-day Grand South Pacific Expedition 2026, calling at 57 destinations across 11 countries from Australia through the South Pacific toward Easter Island and South America. Justice & Corrections Upgrade (Buka): Work is underway on high-security fencing at Bekut Prison on Buka Island, funded through Australia’s PNG Law and Justice Program, with new facilities planned for male, female and juvenile areas. Health Facilities Progress (Port Moresby): Kumul Petroleum Holdings says the Cancer Treatment Facility and National Heart Centre at PMGH are moving ahead, while it orders a review of a stalled surgical ward project. Regional Business Push (PNG–Solomons): PNG and Solomon Islands opened an investment conference in Honiara focused on turning the “growth corridor” into real trade, jobs and cross-border investment, with new air links highlighted. Maritime Safety Alert: A boating tragedy between Kokopo and Pigeon Island left 27 people missing after two boats failed to return.

New Vehicle Launch: Ela Motors marked more than six decades in Papua New Guinea by unveiling the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux, pitching it as the next step in “mobility and development” for Port Moresby streets, provincial roads, mining sites and family adventures. Regional Business Push: PNG and Solomon Islands are doubling down on trade and investment at the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, with leaders urging a “structured, bankable economic partnership” and a focus on jobs, downstream processing and stronger business-to-business links. Tourism & Expeditions: Silversea’s Silver Cloud has departed on a 77-day Grand South Pacific Expedition 2026, calling at 57 destinations across 11 countries, including stops in Papua New Guinea and the wider South Pacific. Justice & Safety: Work has finally started on high-security fencing at Bekut Prison on Buka Island, part of an Australia-PNG law and justice program aimed at better detainee management and staff welfare. Health Infrastructure: Kumul Petroleum Holdings says progress is underway on the new Cancer Treatment Facility and National Heart Centre at Port Moresby General Hospital, while ordering a review of a stalled Surgical Ward project. Education Links: India’s High Commissioner says over 1,000 PNG students have gone to study in India this year, with a “Study in India” roadshow planned for Port Moresby in September.

US Visa Bonds: The US is rolling out visa bonds of up to $27,000 for travellers from several Pacific countries, adding extra cost and planning for tourism and family visits. Luxury Travel: Silversea’s Silver Cloud has departed on a 77-day Grand South Pacific Expedition 2026, calling at 57 destinations across 11 countries, with stops that include PNG and the wider region. PNG–Solomons Investment Push: PNG and Solomon Islands are using the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara to sell a “growth corridor” focused on trade, jobs, downstream processing and stronger business-to-business links, with new air connectivity highlighted. Tourism & Mobility Industry: Ela Motors marked decades in PNG and unveiled the 9th-generation Toyota Hilux, pitching improved capability, comfort, tech and safety for PNG roads and work sites. Health Infrastructure: Kumul Petroleum Holdings reports progress on the new cancer treatment facility and national heart centre at Port Moresby General Hospital, while ordering a review of a stalled surgical ward project. Community & Access: World Vision says humanitarian workers in the Pacific face major access and logistics challenges, especially during climate-driven disasters.

PNG–Solomons Investment Push: Prime Minister James Marape and Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale are driving a “growth corridor” at the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, urging business-to-business deals, more trade, and downstream investment—plus a new weekly air link between Honiara and Port Moresby. Tourism & Expeditions: Luxury cruise line Silversea has launched its 77-day Grand South Pacific Expedition 2026 from Perth to Valparaiso, calling at 57 destinations across 11 countries, including stops in PNG and the wider Pacific. Justice & Infrastructure: Work has started on high-security fencing at Bekut Prison on Buka Island, funded through Australia’s PNG Law and Justice program, with upgrades planned for male, female and juvenile areas. Health & Access: KPHL reports progress on the new Cancer Treatment Facility and National Heart Centre at Port Moresby General Hospital, while ordering a review of a stalled surgical ward project. Community & Safety: A major boating tragedy off East New Britain and Milne Bay is marked with remembrance events for the 27 victims, as families and communities continue to grieve. Travel Tech & Skills: PNG’s NISIT hosted Pacific metrology officers from Kiribati for a practical attachment to strengthen measurement services—supporting trade, health and industry. Transport News: Ela Motors marked decades in PNG and unveiled the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux, targeting improved capability, comfort, tech and safety for local roads and work sites.

PNG–Solomons Investment Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale opened the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, urging a “structured, bankable economic partnership” and pointing to existing PNG business activity worth about PGK1 billion, plus new direct air connectivity between Honiara and Port Moresby. PNG–Solomons Growth Corridor: PNG Prime Minister James Marape is set to join the event to turn political ties into business-to-business deals, jobs and downstream processing under the “From Opportunity to Investment” theme. Health & Tourism Infrastructure: Kumul Petroleum Holdings says Port Moresby General Hospital’s Cancer Treatment Facility and National Heart Centre are progressing, while it orders a review of a stalled Surgical Ward project—good news for patients and for medical travel planning. Mobility for Travelers: Ela Motors marked decades in PNG and unveiled the 9th-gen Toyota Hilux, a reminder that reliable transport still shapes how people move between cities, provinces and tourism spots. Safety on the Road to Fun: Police stepped up security for the 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show, managing crowds and responding to clashes to keep visitors safe. Community & Faith Travel: A JAARS missionary pilot flew a long-awaited New Testament delivery into remote Onobasulu communities—another example of how aviation connects PNG’s farthest places. Regional Environment Watch: New research warns coral reefs may be “drowning” as seas rise faster than reefs can grow, raising stakes for coastal protection and island tourism.

PNG–Solomons Investment Push: Prime Minister James Marape and Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale are driving the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, aiming to turn Melanesian ties into “structured, bankable” business deals, with focus on trade, jobs, downstream processing and new air connectivity. Tourism & Business Events: Solomon Islands SMEs are showcasing locally made products at the conference, while PNG’s KPHL reports progress at Port Moresby General Hospital’s cancer and heart facilities and orders a review of a stalled surgical ward. Transport & Travel Gear: Ela Motors has unveiled the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux in PNG, pitching upgrades in capability, comfort, tech and safety for urban, rural and mining routes. Safety on the Water: A boating tragedy off East New Britain and Milne Bay has claimed 27 lives, prompting remembrance ceremonies and renewed attention on maritime safety for visitors and locals. Community & Culture: Police stepped up security during the 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show, helping manage crowds and incidents across the city. Education Links: India’s High Commissioner says over 1,000+ PNG students have gone to India this year, with a “Study in India” roadshow planned for September. Aviation & Remote Access: A missionary pilot story highlights how airstrips in PNG’s mountains are enabling Bible translation work for remote communities.

PNG–Solomons Investment Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale urged PNG and Solomon Islands to turn Melanesian ties into a “structured, bankable economic partnership” at the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, with a focus on turning goodwill into real projects—plus mention of new direct air connectivity between Honiara and Port Moresby. Conference Momentum: PM James Marape is in Honiara for the same event, pitching stronger business-to-business partnerships and citing PNG’s existing investment footprint in tourism and other sectors. Tourism & Travel Boost: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts officially debuts in PNG with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property near Jacksons International Airport. Sports Tourism: The Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show drew big crowds, with police running visible security patrols to keep visitors safe. Community Access & Faith Travel: A missionary pilot story highlights “last mile” flights into remote PNG airstrips to deliver a New Testament translation—showing how travel enables education and culture. Safety & Remembrance: Milne Bay held a “Remembrance of Flames” tribute for victims of the ENB/Milne Bay boating tragedy. Big Decisions for Travelers: A final decision on the $20b Papua LNG project is due by year-end, a reminder that major infrastructure moves can shape future access and development.

PNG–Solomon Investment Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale opened the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, urging both countries to turn Melanesian ties into a “structured, bankable economic partnership,” with speakers pointing to existing PNG business presence and new direct air connectivity. SME Showcase: Day 2 featured Solomon Islands small and medium enterprises displaying locally made products, with the two-day forum also targeting sectors like agriculture, fisheries, tourism, infrastructure and energy. Tourism & Hospitality Boost: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property near Jacksons International Airport and Vision City Mega Mall. Community & Safety for Visitors: Police stepped up patrols for the 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show, helping manage crowds and respond to clashes as international visitors and cultural groups attended. Remote Access by Air: A missionary pilot story highlights how PNG’s mountain airstrips help deliver the “last mile” for Bible translation work to remote communities. Working Holiday Visa Shock (Regional): Australia paused working holiday-maker visa processing for 24 countries including PNG, raising concerns for agriculture and regional tourism operators. Travel Tech Note: Ncell introduced a 60-second pulse rate for international outgoing calls to 198 countries from Aug 18, 2026.

PNG–Solomon Investment Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale opened the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, urging both countries to turn Melanesian ties into a “structured, bankable economic partnership,” with a focus on sectors like agriculture, fisheries, tourism, infrastructure, energy and financial services. Business & Tourism Angle: Organisers say PNG firms already operate across banking, telecoms, transport, hospitality and more, and the conference is also showcasing Solomon Islands SMEs to delegates and visitors. Connectivity & Communications: A new report raises concerns about Pacific communications sovereignty, pointing to submarine cable dependence and global tech control over what people see online. Defence & Safety for Communities: PNG and Australia are deepening defence cooperation through Operation Render Safe, with PNGDF personnel helping clear unexploded wartime ordnance to make provinces safer and support development. Events on the Ground: Police stepped up security for the 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show, while Milne Bay held a remembrance ceremony for victims of the ENB/MBP boating tragedy. New Hotel for Travellers: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts debuted in PNG with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, adding 394 rooms near Jacksons International Airport. Working Holiday Visa Shock (Tourism Risk): Australia paused working holiday visa applications from 24 countries, including PNG, raising concerns for regional tourism and agriculture that rely on backpacker labour.

PNG–Solomons Investment Push: Prime Minister Matthew Wale opened the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands Investment Conference in Honiara, urging both countries to turn Melanesian ties into a “structured, bankable economic partnership,” with more than 50 PNG firms already investing about PGK1b/SBD1.8b across banking, telecoms, transport, agriculture and hospitality, plus a new direct air link between Honiara and Port Moresby. Energy Watch: A final decision on the long-delayed $20b Papua LNG project is expected by year-end, with Santos saying community engagement is back on track and feedback from the development forum has been positive. Tourism & Transport: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority is reviving a dormant Port Moresby ferry to expand marine tourism, create new products and boost private-sector involvement. Events & Safety: Police stepped up patrols during the 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show to keep crowds safe, after clashes were reported on day one and day three. New Hotel for Travellers: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts debuted in PNG with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property near Jacksons International Airport. International Travel Signals: A new South African passport mobility ranking puts it at 86th globally, while Ncell in Nepal rolled out a 60-second pulse rate for international outgoing calls—both small reminders that travel access and connectivity keep shifting.

New Hotels & Stays: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property near Jacksons International Airport and Vision City Mega Mall—built for both business and leisure travellers. Marine Tourism Push: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) is reviving a dormant Port Moresby Harbour ferry through a new partnership, aiming to expand marine tourism products and add more visitor experiences beyond land. Culture & Visitor Safety: Police stepped up patrols during the 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show to keep crowds and visitors safe, after clashes were reported in parts of the city. Tourism Through Community: A new cultural group from Jiwaka made its first appearance at the Hagen Show with support from Redfern Ecotourism Lodge, helping share local culture with international visitors. Sports Spotlight: Professional boxer John Ume has signed his first PNG commercial partner—The Sanctuary Hotel—set to host him for recovery and training in Port Moresby and future East New Britain visits. Regional Connectivity: All Pacific Islands Forum members are now connected to global undersea cable networks, with PNG set to benefit from improved telecom resilience. Humanitarian Access: World Vision says access is the biggest challenge for humanitarian workers across the Pacific, including PNG, where responses often rely on boats and small planes.

Sheraton Opens in PNG: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property near Jacksons International Airport and linked to Vision City Mega Mall—bringing more options for business and leisure stays. Marine Tourism Boost: PNGTPA is reviving a dormant Port Moresby Harbour ferry through a new partnership, aiming to restart safe operations and expand marine tourism products and sightseeing. Working Holiday Visa Pause Impact: Australia has paused working holiday-maker visa applications from 24 countries, including Papua New Guinea, with industry groups warning of knock-on effects for regional tourism and agriculture. PNG–Solomons Investment Push: Prime Ministers James Marape and Matthew Wale will open the inaugural PNG–Solomon Islands investment conference, with talks spanning sectors like tourism, infrastructure, energy, fisheries and transport connectivity. Port Moresby Events & Travel Culture: Divine Word University kicked off its 30th anniversary with a major Port Moresby motorcade, while the Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show continues to draw international visitors and new cultural groups. Rugby League World Cup Coverage: Exclusive UK broadcast rights for Rugby League World Cup 2026 are confirmed, with PNG set to play in the tournament schedule. Earthquake Alert: A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck Papua New Guinea’s north coast; no immediate damage reports were shared.

Marine Tourism Boost: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) has partnered to revive a dormant Port Moresby ferry, aiming to get the vessel back on the water for sightseeing and new marine tourism products. Cultural Tourism, With a Twist: The 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show welcomed 500+ international visitors and 100+ groups, but day-one clashes caused commotion as police moved in. Connectivity Upgrade: All Pacific Islands Forum members are now connected to global undersea cable networks, with PNG set to benefit from improved telecom resilience. Travel Disruption: Air Niugini runway rehabilitation at Mt Hagen, Hoskins and Kiunga will keep some routes limited to smaller aircraft until late 2026, with schedule changes for travellers. New Hotel Opening: Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel and Suites has opened, bringing a major Marriott brand debut to PNG. Earthquake Alert: A 5.8 quake struck near PNG’s north coast; no immediate damage reports. Visa Bond Watch: The US Visa Bond Programme is set to include Vanuatu permanently, raising questions for Pacific travellers and tourism planning. Sport & Tourism Tie-In: Boxer John Ume has signed The Sanctuary Hotel as his first PNG commercial partner, with the hotel as his Port Moresby base for recovery and training.

Mt Hagen Show: The 66th Mt Hagen Culture and Agriculture Show opened with more than 500 international visitors and over 100 groups, including a first-time Koinambe Waire Brukim Kumul Group from Jiwaka supported by Redfern Ecotourism Lodge—though day-one clashes in parts of the city were reported and brought under control by police. Marine Tourism Boost: PNGTPA has partnered with Happy Soles Ltd and Marine Contract Management to revive a dormant Port Moresby ferry, aiming to bring safe sightseeing and new marine tourism products to the capital’s coastline. Air Travel Disruptions: Air Niugini runway rehabilitation is forcing temporary aircraft limits at Mt Hagen, Hoskins and Kiunga, with Dash 8 operations at Mt Hagen until October and schedule tweaks including more Port Moresby–Goroka flights. New Hotels & Sports Tourism: Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel and Suites has opened, while The Sanctuary Hotel has become John Ume’s first PNG commercial partner—both adding fresh reasons to visit Port Moresby. Visa Costs Watch: PNG is seeking dialogue over the US$20,000 visa bond programme after concerns it could hit travellers and tourism. Safety & Nature Notes: A 5.8 earthquake struck PNG’s north coast with no immediate damage reports, and communities along the Motu-Koitabu coastline are calling for action on rising rubbish and plastic pollution.

Undersea Connectivity: All Pacific Islands Forum members are now linked to the global undersea cable network, with Australia helping deliver 10,300+ km of new cables—good news for PNG’s digital reliability and future trade and tourism services. Visa Shock for Travellers: PNG is pushing for visa reciprocity after the US made a refundable US$20,000 bond permanent for some countries, with PM Marape saying PNG will review charges and entry rules to match partners. Tourism & Marine Moves: PNG Tourism Promotion Authority has partnered to bring a ferry back into service in Port Moresby Harbour, aiming to restart sightseeing and build new marine tourism products. New Hotel Opening: Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel and Suites has opened, adding major meetings and hospitality capacity near the airport and Vision City. Air Niugini Disruptions: Runway rehabilitation is forcing temporary aircraft limits at Mt Hagen, Hoskins and Kiunga, with schedule changes expected until late 2026. Safety & Health: Communities along the Motu-Koitabu coast are calling for action on rising rubbish and plastic pollution, while PNG is also seeing a rise in eye disease risk, including cataracts linked to diabetes. Travel Alerts: A 5.8 quake struck PNG’s north coast; no damage reported yet.