As part of the landmark 40th Australia–PNG Business Forum & Trade Expo, a dedicated investment spotlight session turned the focus to some of Papua New Guinea’s most ambitious development zones and corporate growth stories.
From Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like Paga Hill to multi-sector expansions by Steamships Trading Company, Remington Group, and KPMG, the forum showcased how targeted investment is beginning to reshape PNG’s commercial landscape.
Paga Hill SEZ: A Flagship for Urban Growth
The centerpiece of the SEZ discussions was Paga Hill, a proposed world-class urban development zone in Port Moresby designed to attract international business, tourism, and real estate investment.
Government officials and developers emphasized that the Paga Hill project is more than a real estate venture—it’s a signal of PNG’s readiness to compete regionally.
“This SEZ is a long-term play,” said a senior project consultant. “We’re building the physical and legal infrastructure to attract multinational tenants, create jobs, and redefine Port Moresby’s waterfront economy.”
The forum also touched on other emerging SEZs across the country, with the Department of Commerce and Industry confirming feasibility assessments are underway in Lae and the Highlands.
Steamships: Investing Deep and Wide
Veteran conglomerate Steamships Trading Company reaffirmed its commitment to PNG through diversified investments in logistics, property, shipping, and hospitality.
At the forum, Steamships executives shared insights on their inland logistics corridor strategy—an effort to improve supply chains between major ports and rural producers.
“This is about building connective tissue across PNG,” said a Steamships representative. “Infrastructure is the backbone of growth, and we’re investing accordingly.”
Remington Group: Going Digital
The Remington Group, a major player in PNG’s tech and office equipment sector, used the forum to announce plans for expanding digital infrastructure and B2B tech solutions.
With a new investment roadmap that includes AI-driven office automation, rural print solutions, and digital literacy campaigns, the company is positioning itself at the intersection of business growth and digital inclusion.
“Digital innovation isn’t a luxury—it’s now essential to national development,” said Peter Goodwin, CEO of Remington Group. “And we’re ready to scale that vision.”
KPMG: Regional Expansion from PNG Hub
In a surprising announcement, KPMG revealed it would expand its regional presence using PNG as a base, tapping into the country’s strategic location and growing financial market.
The firm’s new advisory wing will focus on green finance, audit innovation, and startup mentorship, reinforcing PNG’s rising role as a Pacific business hub.
“This isn’t just a business decision—it’s a bet on PNG’s future,” said Melissa Karai, KPMG’s Regional Director.
Conclusion: Confidence on the Rise
This year’s investment forum sent a clear and confident message: Papua New Guinea is open for business—and ready for bold moves.
With Special Economic Zones maturing, homegrown giants like Steamships and Remington expanding, and global firms like KPMG doubling down, PNG is no longer seen as a frontier economy—but as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific.
As the 40th forum closes, stakeholders are already looking toward execution, impact, and delivery. The foundation has been laid. Now, the race to build begins.
