PNG Secures K5 Billion Chinese Development Portfolio for Nine Projects

Papua New Guinea has secured a development cooperation portfolio worth approximately K5 billion from China, covering nine proposed and approved projects aimed at improving infrastructure, education, energy and public facilities across the country.

The latest agreements were signed in Port Moresby following bilateral discussions between the PNG Government and the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), with the projects expected to support key national development priorities under the Medium Term Development Plan IV.

 PNG Secures K5 Billion Chinese Development Portfolio for Nine Projects/Photo supplied

The nine projects include the proposed Surgical Centre at Port Moresby General Hospital, the redevelopment of Somare Park and Malalaua High School, rehabilitation of the International Convention Centre, and a concessional loan project for the National Telekom Network.

Other initiatives include the Hela 15-megawatt solar power generation project, a household solar equipment programme, a double classroom extension at Malalaua High School valued at K5 million, and an upgrade of Adventure Park estimated at K10 million.

The bilateral meeting was held at the Sheraton Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing together government representatives and CIDCA Chairman Chen Xiaodong to discuss the expansion of development cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and two Exchanges of Notes between the Department of National Planning and Monitoring (DNPM), representing the PNG Government, and CIDCA.

The agreements were developed following consultations between the Chinese agency and the respective implementing institutions, including the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), Governor Powes Parkop and Finance Minister Thomas Opa.

The projects were formally requested by the PNG Government to address priority areas requiring infrastructure investment and improved public services.

Minister for National Planning Sir Ano Pala, KBE, CMG, ISO, MP, and Mr Chen Xiaodong are expected to officiate the Exchanges of Notes.

Implementation of the two projects covered under the Exchanges of Notes will proceed following their formal signing, while the initiatives listed under the MoU remain in the development pipeline and are yet to be finalised.

The proposed Surgical Centre at Port Moresby General Hospital is estimated to cost RMB200 million, equivalent to approximately K176 million. The project has been discussed and is expected to be formalised through a separate Exchange of Notes.

As of 2026, China's overall development cooperation portfolio in PNG is valued at approximately K5 billion, comprising grants, concessional loans and projects still undergoing development consideration.