Technology to Drive PNG Business Growth, Says NICTA

 Technology to Drive PNG Business Growth, Says NICTA/Photo supplied

Papua New Guinea’s push towards a more digital economy is expected to create new opportunities for businesses to improve productivity, reduce costs and strengthen workplace safety, with NICTA calling on industries to make practical use of emerging technologies.

The regulator pointed to Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s use of ArcSAR Neo radar technology as an example of how digital innovation can be applied to real operational problems in PNG. Two systems have been deployed to monitor mine slopes and ground conditions at the mining operation.

NICTA chief executive officer Lume Polume said the technology could provide more detailed information for managing geotechnical risks and support faster, better-informed decisions.

The equipment is also capable of continuing its monitoring role when network connectivity is disrupted, providing additional operational resilience.

Mr Polume said the development showed why technology should be viewed as more than a means of communication.

“I commend Ok Tedi Mining Limited for embracing advanced digital technology and demonstrating what is possible when technology is placed at the centre of industrial operations. This is not simply an investment in a piece of equipment; it is an investment in safer operations, better information, better decision-making and greater efficiency.”

He said companies working in remote parts of the country were increasingly turning to new connectivity options to overcome geographical and infrastructure challenges.

Starlink, OneWeb, fibre, wireless networks, IoT and emerging 5G services are among the technologies being explored by businesses and project developers.

“We are seeing a fundamental shift in how businesses think about connectivity. Connectivity is no longer simply about people making phone calls or accessing the internet. It is increasingly about connecting machines, sensors, vehicles, monitoring systems, artificial intelligence and business platforms in real time.”

NICTA has confirmed that the 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum bands are ready for licensing for 5G mobile services in PNG.

Mr Polume said the development should prompt businesses to consider how the technology could be used to connect industrial equipment, infrastructure and intelligent systems rather than focusing only on mobile users.

“With 5G now opening a new chapter for Papua New Guinea, businesses and industries must begin thinking beyond connectivity for people and look at connectivity for machines, infrastructure and intelligent systems.”

He said better use of technology could help companies minimise downtime, improve safety and control operating expenses.

“The opportunity is to use technology to do more with less – to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, strengthen safety, lower operating costs and ultimately improve business performance and returns.”

NICTA is also undertaking changes to its regulatory and institutional arrangements as the country's communications and digital sectors develop.

The authority said proposed legislative and regulatory reforms are expected to progress to the November 2026 Parliament sitting, subject to the required Government and parliamentary processes.

Mr Polume said regulation should support technological development while ensuring that consumers and investors were protected.

“Our responsibility as the regulator is not to stand in the way of technology. Our responsibility is to create a regulatory environment that gives investors certainty, protects consumers, manages risks and allows innovation to flourish.”

He said NICTA would maintain engagement with businesses and other sectors to identify their connectivity needs and ensure the telecommunications framework kept pace with technological change.

The CEO said Government, regulators, telecommunications operators, technology providers and businesses would all have a role in developing PNG’s digital economy.

“NICTA will continue to challenge and encourage industry to think differently about technology. We want to see technology deployed not simply because it is new, but because it solves real problems, improves productivity, creates economic value and helps PNG businesses compete in a modern digital economy.”

Mr Polume said Ok Tedi had demonstrated that Papua New Guinean companies could use leading international technology to address challenges unique to the country.

“Ok Tedi has shown that Papua New Guinean businesses can adopt leading global technologies and apply them to our own unique operating environment. This is the type of innovation and digital transformation we want to see replicated across other industries and project areas throughout the country.”