PNG Lacks Digital Payment Platforms, Stalling Facebook Monetisation

Papua New Guinea’s efforts to unlock monetisation on Facebook and Instagram have been slowed by the absence of internationally recognised digital payment platforms such as Stripe and PayPal, according to a senior Government official.

 PNG Lacks Digital Payment Platforms, Stalling Facebook Monetisation [image graphics generative AI]

The platforms are a core requirement for Meta’s monetisation framework, enabling creators and businesses to receive online payments, subscriptions and advertising revenue.

Secretary for the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Steven Matainaho, revealed in a Facebook post on Monday night that Meta had raised the issue directly with Papua New Guinea officials during high-level discussions.

“Meta informed the PNG delegation that, as part of the process to enable monetisation, the country must assess its digital payment infrastructure to ensure that payment systems such as Stripe and PayPal are available,” Mr Matainaho stated.

He said the responsibility now falls under the mandate of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, which oversees national payment systems and financial infrastructure.

Mr Matainaho said he understood that the central bank had already begun reviewing the matter from both a policy and infrastructure standpoint, as the Government pushes to meet Meta’s requirements.

He added that discussions with Meta would continue, with further engagement planned to clarify any remaining conditions tied to monetisation access.

“While looking into this requirement, we will push for a follow-up online meeting to confirm additional requirements and will update accordingly,” Mr Matainaho said.