Mining

Alongside the upstream energy sector, mining has long served as the backbone of Papua New Guinea’s economy. In 2019 the mining and quarrying sector accounted for 10.3% of GDP and was a major source of foreign exchange earnings. Like the other extractive industries, mining has emerged as a priority for reform under the administration of Prime Minister James Marape. The country has significant deposits of gold, copper and other precious metals, many of which remain untapped. However, the future of some mining projects in the pipeline remain uncertain, given protracted negotiations between the government and mining companies. Looking further ahead, the government appears keen to rebalance the sector towards greater public ownership of mines, although it is expected that the capital and expertise of private investors drawn to transparent regulations will still be required. This chapter contains an interview with John Lewins, CEO, K92 Mining.