AGP Executive Report

Investment & Business: Prime Minister James Marape opened the 2026 PNG Investment Conference in Brisbane, telling investors PNG is “open for business” and highlighting opportunities across mining, LNG, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, tourism, infrastructure, ICT and more. Border & Travel Rules: PNG is tightening entry procedures with a mandatory Digital Arrival Card for all travellers before boarding passes are issued, as part of the e-Border push. Tourism & Aviation: Air Niugini will resume direct Port Moresby–Auckland flights from 17 November, restoring a non-stop link after 26 years. Health & Community Access: A new Level Two Health Centre opened in rural Drekikier (East Sepik) to expand TB, HIV/AIDS, dental, antenatal and supervised delivery services. Safety & Welfare: Chimbu police received 10 new duplex houses in Kundiawa, and RPNGC also opened ten modified H65 duplex barracks in Mirane-Kundiawa, boosting officer welfare. Culture & Travel Experiences: East Sepik’s cultural preservation gets a K500,000 boost via an NCC partnership, supporting traditional practices and tourism-ready heritage. Sports Tourism: The OFC Men’s Champions League kicks off in Fiji with PNG’s Lae City FC in Group B.

Aviation & Tourism: Air Niugini will restart direct Port Moresby–Auckland flights from 17 November, with three return services a week—cutting travel via hubs and boosting options for business travellers, tourists, students and families. Sports & Travel: The OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 kicks off in Fiji this weekend, with PNG’s Lae City FC in Group B and matches streamed live and free on DAZN. Business & Investment: PNG’s two-day Investment Conference is underway in Brisbane, with PM James Marape urging Australian and international investors into mining, LNG, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, tourism, infrastructure and ICT. Culture & Community: East Sepik and the National Cultural Commission have signed an MoU and launched K500,000 support for cultural preservation—aimed at keeping traditions alive and drawing visitors. Safety & Infrastructure: RPNGC has opened 10 modified duplex police barracks in Mirane-Kundiawa, Simbu, as part of SPAP upgrades to improve officer welfare. Travel Inspiration: NATAS Travel Fair in Singapore names Papua New Guinea as Destination Partner, spotlighting PNG culture and tourism at the Aug 21–23 event. NRL Spotlight: PNG Chiefs confirm winger Brian To’o on a three-year deal for the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2028.

New Hotel for Port Moresby: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has officially opened the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property with meeting space, an infinity pool, spa and direct access to the stadium and Vision City Mega Mall—another big boost for business and leisure travel in PNG. Air Connectivity: Air Niugini will resume direct Port Moresby–Auckland flights from 17 November (three return services weekly), cutting out transit and bringing back the only non-stop link between PNG and New Zealand after 26 years. Tourism & Culture Funding: The National Cultural Commission has signed an MoU with East Sepik and provided K500,000 to protect and promote local heritage—aimed at keeping traditions alive and creating tourism opportunities. Travel Safety & Health: Lake Murray in Western Province is drying up fast, triggering water shortages, school closures and rising waterborne disease risk. Sports Travel Spotlight: The OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 kicks off in Fiji with PNG’s Lae City FC in Group B, plus match details and free live streaming on DAZN. Fashion & Creative Industry: Miss Bird of Paradise Talent Show winner George Kurokuro took the first-ever MBOP Sarong Category, blending regional PNG designs into one wearable story. Police Welfare Upgrade: RPNGC opened 10 modified duplex barracks in Mirane-Kundiawa, Simbu—improving accommodation for officers and families.

OFC Men’s Champions League: The Oceania showpiece kicks off in Fiji today with Lae City FC taking on Tupapa Maraerenga FC and Galaxy FC facing Rewa FC, as PNG’s Lae City joins Group B alongside clubs from the Cook Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji; the full tournament runs across Ba (4R Govind Park) and Lautoka (Churchill Park) and is streamed free on DAZN. Air Travel: Air Niugini will restart direct Port Moresby–Auckland flights from 17 November after a 26-year gap, with three return services weekly and aircraft switching from Boeing 737-800 to Airbus A220 next year. Tourism & Culture Funding: The National Cultural Commission has partnered with East Sepik, signing an MoU and providing K500,000 to preserve traditional practices and boost cultural tourism. Climate & Water Crisis: Lake Murray in Western Province has dried up, leaving communities facing water shortages, school closures and rising waterborne disease. Hospitality: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts officially debuts in PNG with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, adding 394 rooms plus major meeting and event space. Health & Travel Safety: A new malaria risk warning list includes Papua New Guinea for travellers, urging precautions.

Air Niugini Restores Direct Travel: Air Niugini will resume non-stop Port Moresby–Auckland flights from 17 November after a 26-year gap, with three return services a week to cut travel time for tourists, students and business travellers. Hospitality Boost: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property with major meeting space and facilities for both business and leisure stays. Culture Funding for Tourism: The National Cultural Commission has signed an MoU with East Sepik, providing K500,000 to protect and promote local heritage—aimed at keeping traditions alive while creating visitor opportunities. Climate Pressure on Travel Routes: Lake Murray in Western Province is drying up, disrupting river trade and forcing communities to relocate, with knock-on effects for access to goods and health. Regional Travel Security: The US has made its visa bond programme permanent, with PNG among countries facing up to US$20,000 bonds for selected tourist and business travellers. Sports & Events: OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 kicks off in Lautoka this Sunday, bringing regional club action to PNG’s football calendar.

Direct flights & family travel: Air Niugini will resume non-stop Port Moresby–Auckland from 17 November after a 26-year gap, with three return services weekly (737-800 first, A220 next year), cutting travel time for business, tourists, students and families. New hotel for travellers: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has opened Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property with major meeting space, dining options and an infinity pool—another push to grow PNG’s accommodation scene. Culture funding & tourism: The National Cultural Commission has signed an MoU with East Sepik, backing cultural preservation with K500,000, while East Sepik also received K500,000 to strengthen major cultural events. Drought hits travel plans: Lake Murray in Western Province has dried up amid severe El Niño-linked conditions, forcing water shortages, school closures and disrupted river trade. Health & safety on the move: Western Health Authority is preparing a province-wide immunisation campaign using digital tracking tools, with catch-up efforts expanding beyond under-ones due to a new measles outbreak in New Ireland. Sports & events: OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 kicks off in Lautoka and Ba this weekend, bringing regional amateur clubs and players to PNG. US-PNG medical cooperation: During Exercise Tamiok Strike 26, PNGDF and U.S. teams delivered expanded medical care, treating hundreds of additional patients.

Aviation Boost: Air Niugini will restart direct Port Moresby–Auckland flights from 17 November after a 26-year gap, cutting travel time and making it easier for tourists, families and business travellers. Cultural Tourism Funding: The National Cultural Commission has signed an MoU with East Sepik, delivering K500,000 to protect traditions and support cultural events that can draw visitors. Major Hotel Opening: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has debuted in PNG with the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property with big conference facilities and a new Sheraton Club. Sport & Travel Plans: The OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 kicks off in Lautoka and Ba this weekend, with matches at Churchill Park and 4R Govind Park—good news for fans planning trips. Climate Pressure on Travel: Lake Murray in Western Province is drying up, disrupting water access, closing schools and affecting local trade routes—an urgent reminder for travellers and aid groups. Health & Community Links: PNGDF medical teams joined U.S. counterparts during Tamiok Strike 26, treating hundreds of patients and strengthening medical cooperation. US Visa Bonds: PNG is among countries facing permanent U.S. visa bonds up to USD 20,000 for selected tourist and business travellers. Tourism Calendar: NATAS Travel Fair in Singapore (21–23 August) lists Papua New Guinea as a destination partner, with cultural performances and travel talks.

Sheraton Hotels lands in PNG: Marriott’s Sheraton brand has officially opened the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property with a big meetings setup, dining and social spaces, and an infinity pool—positioned for both business and leisure travellers. Tourism & culture push: NATAS Travel Fair in Singapore (21–23 Aug) will feature Papua New Guinea as Destination Partner, with cultural performances and travel talks at the PNG booth. Climate readiness: Hela Province is rolling out an El Niño preparedness strategy for 2026–27, including water supplies and fire-safety planning for Tari Airport and Tari Town. Green fee shake-up: PNG’s CCDA has suspended the K50 Green Fee for departing visitors from other countries, after tourism stakeholders raised concerns about consultation and visitor perception. Regional ties & travel security: Australia says it’s completed a major Pacific undersea cable project connecting forum members, while the US keeps a permanent up-to-USD20,000 visa bond requirement for temporary travel for PNG and other selected Pacific nations. Trade links: A PNG-Fiji Business Council report says Fiji-PNG trade is modest but growing, with kava leading Fiji imports from PNG and both sides eyeing deeper cooperation in tourism and agriculture.

Hospitality & Business Travel: Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property in Port Moresby linked to Vision City Mega Mall and close to Jacksons International Airport, bringing major meeting space (including PNG’s largest ballroom), dining, a Sheraton Club, infinity pool, gym and spa. Tourism Policy: The Climate Change and Development Authority has suspended PNG’s K50 Green Fee for departing overseas visitors, citing a transition and review after criticism over consultation and visitor perception. Culture & Events: Western Highlands will host the 2026 Miss Bird of Paradise National Pageant under a new rotating provincial model, while Port Moresby’s APEC Haus will stage the Miss Bird of Paradise Talent and Fashion Show on Aug 9 to spotlight PNG’s creatives ahead of the national pageant. Regional Tourism & Funding: East Sepik received a K500,000 boost for major cultural events, and PNGTPA donated K20,000 to support search and rescue after a deadly boat incident off Pigeon Island in East New Britain. Travel Inspiration: Air Niugini’s restored direct Port Moresby–Tokyo service is helping PNG families plan easier Japan holidays via Air Niugini Tours. Safety at Sea: Commentary and calls for better maritime readiness follow the East New Britain boat tragedy, urging stronger rescue capacity and safer coastal transport.

Hospitality & Business Travel: Sheraton has officially debuted in Papua New Guinea with the opening of the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-room property in Port Moresby’s CBD and government district, linked to Vision City Mega Mall and close to Jacksons International Airport, bringing major meeting facilities (including PNG’s largest ballroom) and a Sheraton Club for corporate and diplomatic visitors. Disaster Readiness: Hela Province is the first in PNG to adopt an El Niño preparedness strategy for 2026–2027, including early purchases like water trucks and tanks and fire-safety planning for Tari Airport and Tari Town. Tourism, Culture & Community: East Sepik has received K500,000 to strengthen major cultural events in the greater Sepik region, with funding aimed at preservation, artist support and cultural tourism. Events Spotlight: The 2026 Enga Cultural Show gets backing from SP Brewery (K5,000) ahead of the festival in Wabag from 7–9 August. Safety at Sea: A renewed call for better maritime safety follows a deadly East New Britain boat capsizing, urging stronger resources and safer, reliable coastal shipping for island and coastal communities. Travel Health Alert: UK travel health guidance flags malaria risk countries including Papua New Guinea, warning travellers to take precautions. Travel Planning Ideas: A quick guide highlights easy Port Moresby escapes like Loloata Island Resort and Varirata National Park for day trips and short breaks.

Sheraton Debuts in PNG: Marriott’s Sheraton brand has officially opened in Port Moresby with the rebranded Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, a 394-key property linked to Vision City Mega Mall and close to Jacksons International Airport, bringing major meeting and event space plus a Sheraton Club, infinity pool and day spa. Tourism & Culture Funding: East Sepik has received K500,000 to strengthen major cultural events and boost cultural tourism across the greater Sepik region. Hela El Niño Prep: Hela Province is the first in PNG to adopt an El Niño preparedness strategy, including safety planning for Tari Airport and early purchases like water trucks and tanks for vulnerable communities. Sea Safety Call: A tragic East New Britain boat capsizing is reigniting calls for better maritime safety and faster, better-resourced search and rescue. Green Fee Update: PNG’s Climate Change and Development Authority has suspended the K50 Green Fee for departing overseas travellers while it reviews the collection process after industry pushback. US Travel Rules: The US has made its refundable visa bond programme permanent for certain B1/B2 applicants from listed countries, including Papua New Guinea, with bonds up to $20,000 potentially required by consular officers. Creative Spotlight: Miss Bird of Paradise’s inaugural Talent & Fashion Show will run in Port Moresby on Aug 9, aiming to turn PNG creativity into real opportunities ahead of the 2026 pageant.

Sheraton Debuts in PNG: Marriott’s Sheraton brand has officially opened the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites (formerly the Stanley) in Port Moresby, with 394 rooms, major event space and a Sheraton Club Lounge—another big step for PNG’s hospitality scene. Tourism Funding Boost: East Sepik has received K500,000 to strengthen major cultural events in the greater Sepik region, with the aim of preserving culture and lifting cultural tourism. Hotel Rebrand Push: The Stanley’s rebranding to Sheraton follows a reported K90 million transformation and is positioned to attract corporate and diplomatic travellers via Marriott Bonvoy. Culture on the Calendar: SP Brewery has chipped in K5,000 toward the 2026 Enga Cultural Show in Wabag (Aug 7–9), supporting preparations and tourism drawcards. Regional Links: Prime Minister James Marape says PNG will send a business delegation to Vanuatu to explore investment opportunities, including tourism cooperation. Safer Seas Call: Commentaries following a deadly East New Britain boat tragedy urge better maritime safety, resources and reliable coastal shipping. US Visa Bond Update (Travel Impact): The US has made its refundable visa bond programme permanent for certain B1/B2 applicants, including PNG, with bonds up to US$20,000 at consular discretion. Conservation Spotlight: The Melanesian Ocean Reserve is set to protect Indigenous-managed marine areas across PNG, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, enabling only sustainable activities. Weekend Getaways: A guide lists easy Port Moresby escapes like Loloata Island Resort and Varirata National Park for short trips.

Sheraton Debuts in PNG: The Stanley Hotel & Suites in Port Moresby has been rebranded as the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, with a K90m-plus transformation, 394 rooms, major event space and a new Sheraton Club—another big step for PNG’s hospitality scene. Cultural Tourism Boost: East Sepik received K500,000 to strengthen major cultural events in the greater Sepik region, with the goal of preserving traditions and drawing cultural tourism. Festival Funding: SP Brewery chipped in K5,000 toward the 2026 Enga Cultural Show in Wabag (7–9 Aug), backing culture, community unity and visitor interest. Sea Safety Push: A recent East New Britain boat tragedy (27 reported deaths) is reigniting calls for better maritime safety and faster, better-resourced search and rescue—so coastal travel doesn’t keep turning deadly. Green Fee Reset: PNG’s Climate Change and Development Authority has suspended the K50 Green Fee for departing visitors while it reviews the collection process after tourism industry concerns. Regional Travel Outlook: Scenic unveiled its 2028–29 Scenic Eclipse II voyages, including expedition-style itineraries exploring remote parts of Indonesian Papua and Papua New Guinea. PNG–Vanuatu Links: PM James Marape says PNG will send a business delegation to Vanuatu and deepen tourism cooperation, while also backing Vanuatu’s stability and infrastructure. Visa Bond Watch: The US has made its visa bond programme permanent for certain B1/B2 applicants, with Papua New Guinea listed among affected countries—potentially requiring up to US$20,000 as a refundable deposit.

Sheraton’s PNG debut: Marriott has rebranded and reopened the Stanley in Port Moresby as the Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites, bringing 394 rooms plus major event space and a direct link to Vision City Mega Mall—an obvious boost for business travel and tourism. Green Fee shake-up: PNG’s K50 airport Green Fee for departing non-residents has been suspended by the Climate Change and Development Authority while the system is reviewed after Tourism Promotion Authority concerns about consultation and visitor perception. Marape–Vanuatu diplomacy: Prime Minister James Marape broke ground on PNG’s new chancery in Port Vila and pledged ongoing support across fisheries, agriculture and tourism, with land gifted for Vanuatu’s own mission. US visa bond hits PNG travellers: The US has made its refundable visa bond programme permanent for B1/B2 business and tourist visas, with PNG included among 50 countries—consular officers can require up to US$20,000 before visa issuance. Culture on the calendar: BSP sponsors K100,000 toward the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival, backing the long-running cultural event in Port Moresby. Ocean protection push: Melanesian governments are moving toward the Melanesian Ocean Reserve, a multinational Indigenous marine protection framework spanning PNG and neighbours. Safety reminder for travellers: A deadly sea incident off East New Britain has reignited questions about vessel seaworthiness and licensing for open-water travel.

Diplomacy & Tourism: Prime Minister James Marape broke ground on Papua New Guinea’s new chancery in Port Vila, pledging continued support for Vanuatu’s stability and growth, including fisheries, agriculture and tourism, and confirmed PNG will gift land in Port Moresby so Vanuatu can build its own diplomatic mission. Culture & Events: BSP Financial Group sponsored K100,000 toward the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival, backing the Motu-Koita Assembly’s push to preserve one of PNG’s most treasured cultural traditions. Conservation: The Melanesian Ocean Reserve is set to operate across the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia, protecting Indigenous-managed marine biodiversity through sustainable, values-led activities. Travel Ideas (Port Moresby): A weekend guide highlights easy escapes like Loloata Island Resort and Varirata National Park for snorkelling, diving, kayaking and cooler day trips. Visa Rules for Travellers: The US made its visa bond programme permanent, with Papua New Guinea among 50 countries—consular officers may require refundable deposits up to US$20,000 for B1/B2 business and tourist visas. Local Hospitality: Hotel Gilgal opened in Mt Hagen after eight years of planning, creating 80+ jobs and adding fresh accommodation options for visitors and business travellers.

NRL & Nation-Building: PNG Chiefs’ push into Australia’s National Rugby League is being framed as more than sport—an investment and diplomacy play that taps rugby league’s deep PNG roots and could reshape regional ties. Tourism & Hospitality: Mt Hagen gets a boost with the opening of Hotel Gilgal, creating 80+ jobs and adding international-standard accommodation to Western Highlands. US Travel Rules: The US is making its visa bond programme permanent from 3 August, with nationals of 50 countries including PNG facing refundable deposits up to US$20,000 for B1/B2 visitor visas—an upfront cost that could affect travel planning. Pacific Diplomacy: PNG expands its diplomatic footprint with a permanent chancery project in Vanuatu, with cooperation flagged across fisheries, agriculture, climate and tourism. Remote Travel Reality: A “last mile” aviation mission highlights how PNG’s isolated communities—often reachable only by air—depend on specialised flights for access, services and connection. Safety on the Trail: An Australian hiker, Will Standish, was identified after a fatal fall on the US Continental Divide Trail—another reminder that long-distance trekking demands serious risk planning.