Message from the Minister & Chairman of Finschhafen District Development Authority  

The Finschhafen Integrated Special Economic Zone (FISEZ) is a seven-year work-in-progress, evolving from a bold vision into a transformational economic initiative for Papua New Guinea (PNG). What initially began as a conceptual framework for the Finschhafen Special Economic Zone has now matured into a nationally recognised development strategy, propelled by the enactment of the Special Economic Zone Authority Act 2019.

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From the outset, the ambition was clear: to establish Finschhafen as a major industrial green hub and trade centre, positioning PNG as a leader in sustainable industrialisation, value-added manufacturing, and global commerce. The absence of critical industries, particularly the downstream processing of PNG’s vast natural resources, served as a major catalyst for the establishment of FISEZ. By focusing on sectors such as nickel, manganese, steel, cement, e-methanol, biodiesel, and food processing, the zone is set to transform the economic landscape by reducing raw material exports and instead processing them domestically to create higher-value products.

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A turning point in 2019 came when the National Executive Council (NEC) approved Finschhafen as the headquarters for blockchain and digital currency exchange in PNG. This milestone decision expanded the vision of FISEZ beyond industrialisation and manufacturing, laying the foundation for it to become a futuristic hub for disruptive innovation and emerging technologies. With a focus on artificial intelligence, blockchain, green data centres, 5G infrastructure, and smart industrial automation, FISEZ is set to integrate the digital economy into its industrial framework, positioning itself as a forward-thinking hub for technological transformation in PNG and the Asia-Pacific region.

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As FISEZ progresses, it remains anchored in sustainability, economic diversification, and technological advancement. The development of 600MW of renewable hydropower, the establishment of a deep-sea port, industrial park, and trade corridors, and the prioritisation of green energy industries all underscore a commitment to long-term, sustainable growth.

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This is not just a project—it is a national movement towards a future where PNG is a leader in green industrialisation, high-tech innovation, and global trade. The journey of FISEZ is a testament to the power of vision, persistence, and strategic planning, ensuring that Finschhafen emerges as a world-class economic centre for generations to come.