Tuesday 20th May 2025 – The Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry (POMCCI) recently hosted an Economic Breakfast with ANZ at the Royal Papua Yacht Club, featuring Dr. Kishti Sen, ANZ International Economist for PNG and the Pacific.
Dr. Sen provided members with an in-depth update on Papua New Guinea’s economic performance and outlook, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities ahead.
One of the key takeaways was the resilience of PNG’s economy despite global trade uncertainties. Consumer demand—accounting for nearly 75% of PNG’s economy—has remained strong, with growth supported by rising cash crop incomes, particularly from coffee, cocoa, and oil palm farmers. In 2025, coffee receipts doubled compared to the previous year, providing much-needed cash flow to households in the Highlands region.
Employment trends also showed encouraging signs, with manufacturing, transport, and agriculture adding more jobs, while Morobe province recorded the strongest growth in private sector employment.
On the external front, PNG continues to benefit from high global commodity prices, which have boosted export earnings and helped reduce the foreign currency backlog. Foreign direct investment remains steady, with major projects such as Papua LNG, Pasca A, and mining expansions expected to drive growth further in the coming years.
Looking ahead, ANZ projects PNG’s economy to grow by 4.7% in 2025, with stronger growth anticipated from 2026 onwards. However, challenges such as high inflation and rising interest rates remain, underscoring the need for careful policy management and strong private sector engagement.
POMCCI thanks Dr. Kishti Sen and ANZ for providing timely insights that will help businesses plan and adapt in a changing economic environment. The Chamber remains committed to supporting its members by facilitating access to expert analysis and opportunities that strengthen PNG’s private sector.