Aviation & Infrastructure: PNG has launched the K2.5bn Port Moresby International Airport redevelopment, moving Jacksons International Airport through four phases over 6.5 years to expand terminals and upgrade runways, with public funding starting at K25m and more expected from private partners. Mining Governance & Regional Cooperation: PNG and Solomon Islands are deepening cooperation on mining reforms and resource governance, with PNG offering legal and technical support and both sides pushing for stronger national benefit from extractives. Energy & Oil & Gas: TotalEnergies and Petronas have started drilling PNG’s first deepwater well, Mailu-1, in the Gulf of Papua, while High Arctic is expanding industrial services and preparing to resume drilling later this year. Agriculture & Food Security: PNG is accelerating rice self-sufficiency with Korean-backed machinery for the Norikori Rice Project, and PNG UoT is set to host a food-systems transformation conference in Lae (1–3 July). Industry & Construction: Ark Pacific delivered a turnkey prefabricated construction camp for Santos’ Agogo Production Facility tie-in pipeline works, and SP Brewery commissioned rooftop solar plus a new warehouse in Lae to boost efficiency and distribution. Workforce & Skills: Mapex Training Institute graduates include Kashat, who earned dual operator certificates in trades still dominated by men. Community & Business Recognition: Westpac Outstanding Women Awards 2026 finalists were announced, highlighting leadership across PNG’s business, public, sports, arts and sustainability sectors.