On Tuesday, 22 September 2026, the Papua New Guinea–Japan Business Exchange Meeting (PJBEM) was held at a hotel in Port Moresby. The event was hosted by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) and co‑organised by the Embassy of Papua New Guinea in Japan and the Pacific Islands Centre (PIC).

The meeting brought together 13 representatives from eight Japanese companies, along with officials from the Embassy of Japan in PNG and JICA. On the Papua New Guinea side, more than 60 participants attended, including senior officials from the Ministry of International Trade and Investment, government agencies, state‑owned enterprises, and private‑sector representatives. Discussions were active and wide‑ranging.

Japanese companies already operating in PNG shared updates on the current business environment and highlighted challenges they face. This enabled frank exchanges on how government agencies might help address these issues and how future business expansion could be supported. Companies considering entry into PNG presented their business track records, proprietary technologies, project goals, and expectations for local partnerships. PNG participants responded with relevant information and potential collaboration opportunities, creating momentum that may lead to increased Japanese investment in the country.

PJBEM Programme

Following the meeting, expectations have grown that PNG government stakeholders will deepen their understanding of Japanese business activities and strengthen support for future projects. PIC will continue working closely with IPA to promote business exchange and facilitate new opportunities between Papua New Guinea and Japan.