Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG Ports) for its remarkable performance in the 2025 World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), describing the achievement as a proud moment for Papua New Guinea and a testament to the nation’s growing efficiency, resilience, and competitiveness in global trade.

According to the CPPI Report, the Port of Lae has advanced from 311th position in 2023 to 264th in 2025, while the Port of Port Moresby improved from 280th to 248th, outperforming several major ports across developed economies, including Melbourne, Brisbane, Port Botany (Sydney), Auckland, Napier, and Otago.

“These outstanding results are not just statistics; they reflect the steady progress of our nation in managing critical infrastructure, enhancing operational capacity, and building a modern, competitive economy,” Prime Minister Marape said. “I commend PNG Ports, its management, employees, and partners for their leadership and innovation in positioning Papua New Guinea’s Ports among the best-performing in the Asia-Pacific region.”

The Prime Minister said the improved rankings of Lae and Port Moresby Ports were a direct outcome of strategic investments and partnerships in recent years, including the introduction of new equipment, port management systems, and digital technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce turnaround times.

“Through prudent investment and management, PNG is demonstrating that we can compete regionally and globally,” he 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, creating opportunities for our people and businesses.”

PM Marape said PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, celebrated last month, marked not only a milestone in the nation’s journey but also a reset towards the next 50 years of growth and prosperity.

“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, enabling trade, supporting investors, and connecting Papua New Guinea with regional and global markets.”

He added that the Government will continue to support State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) like PNG Ports to modernise infrastructure, improve governance, and expand regional connectivity through smart investments and strong Public-Private partnerships.

“The success of PNG Ports demonstrates what good governance, commercial discipline, and patriotic leadership can achieve when aligned with national goals,” the Prime Minister 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 hub for shipping and logistics.”

Prime Minister Marape acknowledged PNG Ports’ ongoing commitment to sustaining operations across all 15 declared Ports, including its support for 12 Community Service Obligation (CSO) Ports that connect rural and maritime 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.”

The Prime Minister reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to maintaining PNG as a stable and attractive destination for investment, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region, emphasizing that sustained economic growth relies on reliable infrastructure and consistent performance.

“Papua New Guinea’s improved global ranking in Port performance is a reflection of our broader national progress,” Prime Minister Marape concluded. “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.”