Australia through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) is providing the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) with an AUD95.7 million loan to upgrade Kimbe Port in West New Britain Province.
As part of the broader AUD621.4 million Upgrading Ports across Papua New Guinea initiative to enhance port infrastructure, the upgrades to Kimbe Port aim to strengthen the port’s resilience, efficiency and role as a key economic hub.
The project reinforces Australia’s commitment to supporting PNG’s economic growth and regional connectivity and will improve infrastructure reliability, strengthen supply chain efficiency, improve connectivity and boost local economic opportunities.
The Kimbe Port project is the first of five major upgrades Australia is supporting in PNG, with Oro Bay, Daru, the Lae Tidal Basin and Kavieng also set to benefit from improved port facilities.
The works, scheduled to begin in early 2025 and conclude in 2026, will increase resilience against climate impacts and enhance freight services.
With the Kimbe Port project alone expected to create up to 300 local jobs during construction by prioritising local workers and suppliers, the project will deliver direct benefits to PNG communities.
PNG Ports Corporation Ltd. has awarded the contract for the works to Pacific Marine Group Pty Ltd.
Aerial view of Kimbe Port, West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea
Australia's High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea John Feakes speaking at the Kimbe Port contract signing event
Contract signing by Pacific Marine Group MD Terry Dodd, PNG Ports Ltd Director Maxwell Paia and Chairman Harvey Nii
Representatives from Australia, Papua New Guinea and project partners following the Kimbe Port contract signing