Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, James Marape, has praised the PNG Ports Corporation Ltd for achieving major improvements in the World Bank’s 2025 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), describing the milestone as a sign of the country’s growing efficiency and competitiveness in global trade.
According to the report, the Port of Lae rose from 311th position in 2023 to 264th in 2025, while the Port of Port Moresby improved from 280th to 248th — surpassing several major ports in developed economies including Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney’s Port Botany, Auckland, Napier, and Otago.
“These outstanding results are not just statistics; they reflect the steady progress of our nation in managing critical infrastructure and building a modern, competitive economy,” Marape said.
He commended PNG Ports’ management, staff, and partners for their leadership and innovation, saying the improved rankings were the result of years of strategic investment, technological upgrades, and digital modernisation. New equipment, smarter management systems, and reduced vessel turnaround times have strengthened PNG’s ability to compete in regional and global shipping markets.
“Through prudent investment and management, Papua New Guinea is demonstrating that we can compete regionally and globally,” the Prime Minister said. “The operational success of our ports is central to our national vision under the Take Back PNG agenda — to build an economy that is efficient, transparent, and globally connected.”
Transforming Papua New Guinea into a Trade-Driven Economy
Marape said the nation’s recent 50th Independence Anniversary marked both a milestone and a reset toward the next half-century of economic growth.
“As we step into our next 50 years, our focus is clear — we are transforming from a resource-dependent economy into a diversified, trade-driven nation,” he said. “Our ports are the gateways to this transformation, connecting Papua New Guinea with regional and global markets.”
He reaffirmed his government’s support for state-owned enterprises, including PNG Ports, to modernise infrastructure, strengthen governance, and expand connectivity through public-private partnerships.
“The success of PNG Ports demonstrates what good governance, commercial discipline, and patriotic leadership can achieve when aligned with national goals,” Marape said. “We will continue working with our development and investment partners across the Asia-Pacific to expand trade, grow exports, and position PNG as a regional shipping and logistics hub.”
Inclusive Development and National Connectivity
The Prime Minister also acknowledged PNG Ports’ commitment to maintaining operations across its 15 declared ports, including 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) ports serving remote and island communities.
“This inclusive approach ensures that the benefits of development reach all corners of our country,” he said. “Even as we pursue efficiency and profitability, we must never lose sight of our responsibility to serve every Papua New Guinean — from our remote islands to our industrial cities.”
Positioning PNG as a Regional Trade Hub
Marape concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to making Papua New Guinea a stable and attractive destination for investment in the Asia-Pacific.
“Papua New Guinea’s improved global ranking in port performance is a reflection of our broader national progress,” he said. “We are open for business, ready for investment, and determined to ensure that every sector of our economy — from shipping to agriculture to digital trade — contributes to our shared prosperity.”