Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has today paid high tribute to the Papua New Guinea Customs Service for its outstanding performance in 2025, describing the Agency as one of the Government’s most reliable pillars in strengthening national revenue, safeguarding borders, and supporting economic stability.
The Prime Minister said PNG Customs had once again exceeded expectations by surpassing its 2025 revenue target under the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO), marking another milestone in what is now four consecutive years of strong and consistent revenue growth.
“I want to personally congratulate the leadership and every officer of the Papua New Guinea Customs Service for a truly commendable performance in 2025. Customs has not only met its revenue targets but has exceeded them, reinforcing its critical role in supporting our economy and our national development agenda,” Prime Minister Marape said.
According to the 2025 performance data, PNG Customs collected a total of K4.31 billion in revenue as of 19 December 2025, exceeding the MYEFO target of K4.23 billion by K82.35 million, or 2 per cent. This represents a 7 per cent increase, or K291.36 million, compared to collections over the same period in 2024, placing the agency on track to achieve an estimated 10 per cent year-on-year growth by year end.
The Prime Minister noted that direct transfers to the Waigani Public Account amounted to K2.68 billion, exceeding MYEFO expectations by K94.07 million, a clear demonstration of Customs’ discipline, integrity and effectiveness in revenue administration.
Prime Minister Marape highlighted that the Customs Service’s performance over the last five years has been transformational, with revenue collections growing from K2.81 billion in 2020 to more than K4.31 billion in
2025, representing an increase of over 53 per cent, or approximately K1.49 billion. “This sustained growth is not accidental. It reflects sound leadership, modern systems, strengthened compliance measures and a strong culture of professionalism within the Customs Service,” the Prime Minister said.
He acknowledged the leadership of Chief Commissioner David Towe and the senior management team, noting that their reforms have helped minimize revenue leakage, improve trade facilitation and enhance border security, while ensuring that Customs operations align with the Government’s Medium Term Development Plan IV and long-term national priorities.
“Every Kina collected at our borders contributes directly to classrooms, hospitals, roads and essential services for our people. Customs revenue underpins our ability to invest in health, education, infrastructure and law and order,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister also emphasised the strategic importance of Customs beyond revenue collection, noting its vital role in protecting national borders, supporting legitimate trade, and maintaining the integrity of Papua New Guinea’s economy in an increasingly complex global environment.
“As a frontline economic and security agency, Customs plays a crucial role in ensuring that trade is fair, compliant and secure. A strong Customs Service means a stronger nation,” he said.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting PNG Customs through continued investment in digital transformation, modern inspection infrastructure such as Container Examination Facilities, and capacity building for officers nationwide.
“We will continue to back Customs in its reform journey. A modern, professional and well-resourced Customs Service is essential for sustainable economic growth, investor confidence and national security,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Marape concluded by commending all Customs officers for their dedication and service, urging them to maintain high standards of integrity and performance as the country moves forward into 2026 and beyond.