Sector Regulations

Papua New Guinea’s investment environment is shaped by sector-specific regulatory frameworks administered by dedicated authorities. Each priority sector operates under defined legislation, licensing requirements, and compliance obligations. InvestPNG monitors regulatory developments across all platform sectors to support investor planning and operational compliance.

Mining and Minerals

The mining sector is regulated by the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) under the Mining Act. The MRA administers exploration licences, mining leases, and alluvial mining leases. Regulatory requirements include environmental impact assessment, landowner engagement, development forum agreements, and ongoing reporting and compliance obligations. Mining projects of national significance may be subject to additional government coordination through mining development contracts.

Petroleum and Gas

The petroleum sector is regulated by the Department of Petroleum and Energy (DPE) under the Oil and Gas Act. Petroleum prospecting licences, petroleum development licences, and pipeline licences are administered through a defined application and assessment process. The regulatory framework addresses work programme commitments, environmental management, state equity participation, and benefit-sharing arrangements with landowners and provincial governments.

Fisheries

The fisheries sector is regulated by the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) under the Fisheries Management Act. PNG’s exclusive economic zone is one of the largest in the Pacific, supporting both industrial tuna fisheries and coastal aquaculture opportunities. The NFA administers fishing licences, processing facility certifications, and vessel registration. Regulatory priorities include sustainable stock management, compliance with regional fisheries management organisation obligations, and domestic processing requirements.

Agriculture and Forestry

Agricultural investment is subject to regulatory oversight by the Department of Agriculture and Livestock. Commodity-specific boards and authorities govern export crops including coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and copra. Forestry operations are regulated by the PNG Forest Authority under the Forestry Act, with timber permits and forest management agreements subject to environmental and social safeguard requirements.

Land access for agricultural projects requires careful navigation of customary land tenure provisions and compliance with the Land Act and special agricultural and business lease frameworks.

Cross-Sector Regulatory Considerations

In addition to sector-specific regulation, investors should be aware of cross-cutting regulatory obligations:

• Environmental Regulation — The Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) administers environmental impact assessment and permitting requirements applicable across all sectors.
• Foreign Investment Certification — All foreign enterprises require IPA certification under the Investment Promotion Act.
• Labour Regulation — The Employment Act and associated legislation govern employment conditions, work permits for foreign nationals, and workplace health and safety obligations.
• Tax Compliance — The Internal Revenue Commission administers corporate tax, GST, and withholding tax obligations.

Regulatory Reform

Papua New Guinea is engaged in an ongoing programme of regulatory reform aimed at improving the efficiency and predictability of the investment environment. InvestPNG tracks legislative developments, regulatory policy changes, and institutional reform initiatives across all platform sectors.

For sector-specific regulatory guidance, contact InvestPNG through the engagement portal.