China-Papua New Guinea investment projects

In late July 2026 Papua New Guinea intensified its push for Chinese‑backed development in the capital. On 26 July, Prime Minister James Marape inaugurated a $3 billion mixed‑use Chinatown complex in Port Moresby, a project led by Chinese investor Baosen International Holdings. The launch was presented as a flagship example of PNG’s Special Economic Zone policy and highlighted the long‑standing China‑PNG partnership.

Three days later, National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop met with R&F Properties Group co‑founder Zhang Li to propose two prime waterfront parcels – the Paga Hill Special Economic Zone and the former Old Port – for further Chinese investment. Parkop emphasized government backing and the broader list of investment‑ready projects, while trade and investment officials reiterated support. The meeting signalled PNG’s broader strategy to attract private Chinese capital beyond state‑owned ventures, expanding Chinese involvement in commercial, tourism, housing and other sectors across Port Moresby.