Papua New Guinea

This chapter examines the legal framework related to doing business or investing in Papua New Guinea. It also features a viewpoint from Stephen Lewin, Partner, Leahy Lewin Nutley Sullivan Lawyers, on the laws surrounding customary land in PNG.

This chapter breaks down the tax environment in Papua New Guinea, examining corporate taxation, residence rules, and other information useful for those interested in investing in PNG. It also features a viewpoint from Jonathan Seeto, Territory Senior Partner, PwC, analysing how PNG’s current tax review initiative may contribute to the economy.

Health care in PNG is poised to see major changes. Perhaps the most significant recent development has been the introduction of fee-free health care. The government committed $8.13m to the programme in 2014, which began officially on February 23 of that year. The refurbishment of Port Moresby General Hospital is receiving major government support, as it is hoped that the renewed facility will...

As a country of over 600 islands, 800 languages and unmatched biodiversity, culture and nature are the primary attractions for visitors to Papua New Guinea. Although the country has a long history of tourism, the sector has remained largely undeveloped and accounts for only a small part of PNG’s economy. As the costs of travel are falling, thanks to factors such as an increase in hotel rooms...

As part of efforts to tackle the country’s over-reliance on mineral and energy exports, the government is supporting the growth of the agriculture sector to promote diversification. Forestry, agricultural and fishery activity currently accounts for one third of the economy and remains the principle livelihood of the vast majority of Papua New Guinea’s citizens. Agriculture exports dropped from...

From 2008 to 2012, the construction sector posted average real annual growth of 20.4%. The value of construction projects in 2013 was estimated at $1.4bn, up from the $1.2bn in 2012, $984m in 2011 and $744m in 2010. A host of big-ticket items are listed in the 2014 budget, including $577m to construct and maintain roads and bridges; $152m to finish facilities for the 2015 Pacific Games; $25m...