Papua LNG on track: Marape

PRIME Minister James Marape says that the US$12 billion (about K42.8 billion) Papua LNG project is on target for its final investment decision (FID) phase and construction next year.
This followed his meeting with TotalEnergies’ chairman and chief executive officer Patrick Jean Pouyanne in Paris, France, marking the conclusion of his three-nation tour to Israel, Indonesia and France.
Marape directed the ministers for education and higher education to initiate training programmes for 5,000 individuals from Gulf, Karamui in Chimbu, Okapa in Eastern Highlands, plus Grade 12 school leavers.
The programmes will focus on trade skills such as welding, plumbing, carpentry, cooking, and industrial assistance, in anticipation of workforce requirements during the Papua LNG construction phase.
Marape, drawing a parallel with the PNG LNG project, said: “The construction phase of PNG LNG cost US$19 billion (about K66 billion).
“We anticipate a similar transformative impact on our economy with Papua LNG as construction activities gain momentum.
“Our records show gross domestic product increased from K31.5 billion in 2008 to K47.7 billion in 2013 due to the PNG LNG project.
“We anticipate a similar trajectory for the Papua LNG starting from 2024 onwards.”
He said significant progress from front-end engineering design (Feed) to the construction phase would create more employment opportunities.
“Enhance the skills of our local workforce, bolster revenue streams and contribute to foreign exchange reserves, all in support of our national economy.”
The project’s target date for its first gas production is in 2027.
“We are fully committed to expediting the process, including social mapping, landowner studies and the expansion of opportunities for local businesses to thrive.” Marape said the Government’s proactive approach and strong commitment to the Papua LNG project reflected its dedication to fostering economic growth and providing opportunities for our citizens.
“Our technical colleges in Lae, Madang, Goroka, Mt Hagen, Port Moresby and Kokopo will be used for short-term courses in November, December and January, taking advantage of campus vacancies during this period,” Marape said.