Research by the Fraser Institute shows that Papua New Guinea rates ahead of several Australian states for attractiveness for mining investment. Gavin Wendt, Founding Director of resource analyst Minelife, says statements from Kumul Mineral Holdings’ Chairman Peter Graham that it will invest in upcoming projects are also a positive for foreign investors.
Copper has weakened, but oil and gas prices are showing strength. Business Advantage PNG’s monthly review of Papua New Guinea commodities and financial markets.
There is growing concern in Papua New Guinea’s mining industry that changes to the Mining Act will discourage investment in the sector. The Executive Director of the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, Professor Albert Mellam, has said the mining sector is ‘strongly opposed’ to the revised Act.
Berry Mini, President of the Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce, told Business Advantage PNG last Friday that there is an increased security presence in Mendi, particularly in front of key commercial and government buildings. The state of emergency is also affecting earthquake recovery supplies.
The Chief Executive of copper and gold producer Ok Tedi Mining, Peter Graham, believes the Papua New Guinean company will enjoy a ‘sweet spot’ in the next few years. He says efficiency gains have substantially improved the mine’s competitiveness.
Papua Mining has been drilling in Papua New Guinea for six years and has some exciting prospects, according to Chief Executive David Price. He says the company is looking to grow aggressively—possibly in partnership with a larger player.
Oil and gas prices are rising but cocoa and silver are weaker. Business Advantage PNG’s monthly review of Papua New Guinea commodities and financial markets.
The proposed Wafi Golpu mine will contribute to the diversification of Papua New Guinea’s economy, according to Craig Jones, Executive General Manager Wafi Golpu at Newcrest Mining. He told the Australia Papua New Guinea Business Forum in Brisbane that, if the project gets the go-ahead, it will help local agriculture.
The Managing Director of Kumul Petroleum Holdings (KPH), Wapu Sonk, believes a ‘step change’ is needed in the electrification of Papua New Guinea. He argues that some gas production should be reserved for domestic production.
A court hearing this week (17 May) in Port Moresby will help determine if there is a judicial review of the Bougainville government’s decision to refuse the extension of an exploration licence for the Panguna copper mine. Also that day, a federal court hearing will be asked to rule on the release of documents showing the relationship between dissident landowners and a Perth-based company seeking exploration rights to Panguna.