News

On August 5th, our BSP Members Networker event offered valuable insights into Papua New Guinea’s economic outlook and market trends. Led by Leighton Crisp, Group Head of Market Sales at BSP Financial Group Limited, the session explored key factors influencing PNG’s economy, including growth moderation to 3.5% in 2026, inflation pressures from currency depreciation and global commodity prices, and external risks such as El Niño and geopolitical tensions. The discussion also highlighted opportunities within PNG’s export sector, consumption patterns, and currency dynamics. This event fostered strategic dialogue among members, reinforcing informed decision-making amid PNG’s evolving economic landscape. We thank BSP and all participants for their engagement and contributions.

Recap of our successful virtual information session with Beth Riley, Director at South Dakota Mines' Ivanhoe International Center. In collaboration with the U.S. Embassy Port Moresby and AmCham Coral Sea, the event showcased top programs in Earth Sciences, Geology, Mining Engineering, and emerging Technologies. Attendees explored international study, research, and partnership opportunities, with insights on fostering global collaborations to support PNG’s mining and resource sectors.

The American Chamber of Commerce Coral Sea hosted a lively and memorable 4th of July celebration at Hilton Port Moresby. The event featured live entertainment, US-inspired cocktails, and delicious canapés, creating a festive atmosphere for networking among professionals, friends, and families. Keynote speaker DCM Alex Berenberg from the U.S. Embassy highlighted the growing ties between Papua New Guinea and the United States, emphasizing ongoing collaboration. The event successfully fostered relationships and future opportunities, leaving attendees inspired and optimistic.

The Webinar with Dr Alfred Oehlers on June 10, 2026, emphasized the urgent methamphetamine crisis in the Pacific, emphasizing the vital yet underrecognized role of the private sector in both experiencing and addressing the problem.

The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) has been supporting business associations in the Pacific since 2013, with backing from the US and Australian governments. Recent discussions highlight ongoing efforts to expand regional influence and capacity, despite resource challenges. Moving forward, CIPE plans to conduct visits to strengthen partnerships, promote good governance, and encourage responsible investment practices that support sustainable development. Overall, its goal is to foster a stable, resilient, and prosperous economic environment in the region.

The webinar on April 13, 2026, highlighted key geopolitical shifts driven by the Middle East conflict. It emphasized the Gulf region’s transition amid increasing risks, the vulnerability of vital Indo-Pacific trade routes, and the erosion of the Gulf’s reputation as a safe investment hub. The discussion also pointed to opportunities in the Pacific’s strategic realignment and stressed the importance for businesses to reassess risks, diversify energy sources, and build resilient partnerships to succeed in an uncertain global environment.

The AmCham Coral Sea Board of Directors held a farewell event on April 9th to honor Ryan, a founding member whose leadership greatly contributed to the organization’s growth. As he moves on to new opportunities, the organization wishes him success and looks forward to continued collaboration.

On April 8, 2026, the Chamber hosted a webinar with IFC’s Sameer Chand on advancing green finance in Papua New Guinea. He discussed the global shift to sustainable finance, PNG’s progress with green taxonomy, and the potential of thematic bonds to support climate and development goals. Sameer highlighted IFC’s support in developing risk management guidelines, updating PNG’s green taxonomy, and promoting green bonds. The session also covered key topics like commodity inclusion, green bond issuance, and potential incentives. The webinar emphasized the importance of these frameworks in mobilizing private capital and achieving PNG’s sustainability targets.

The Chamber's hybrid briefing on March 19, 2026, provided an update on PNG’s efforts to address FATF’s grey-listing challenges. Experts Wilson Onea and Rosa Banick discussed the 3-year action plan, progress made, and upcoming priorities, emphasizing the need for political will, governance reforms, and sustained capacity building. Key focus areas included completing risk assessments, legal reforms, and enforcement enhancements. The session also highlighted concerns from the private sector about procedural delays and the importance of balancing compliance with business continuity. The event was sponsored by ANZ Bank PNG, and the Chamber commended the FASU-BPNG Team for their informative presentation.

On March 16th, 2026, members participated in an exclusive webinar in partnership with the U.S. Embassy Port Moresby, focused on the Fulbright Scholarship. The session provided insights on the scholarship's benefits, application process, and tips for creating a strong application. Attendees also heard from current recipients and alumni, gaining valuable guidance to pursue this prestigious opportunity.

AmCham Coral Sea participated in the 2026 Corporate 7's Slow-Pitch Softball Tournament alongside the U.S. Embassy Wantok Softball Club, securing 3rd place. The event, organized by the Men’s Softball Association, emphasized teamwork, community engagement, and work-life balance. Thanks to Coca-Cola Europacific Partners for their support, the tournament was a successful and memorable community initiative.

On February 18th, 2026, AmCham Coral Sea proudly hosted its Members Brew & Connect, a vibrant gathering that welcomed the 2026 Executives and Members of the organization. The event provided an excellent platform for networking, fostering business relationships, and celebrating our shared commitment to regional growth.