PNG Mining: Navigating Growth Through Technology and Local Partnerships

Papua New Guinea (PNG) remains one of the Asia-Pacific’s most prospective mining markets, supported by world-class copper and gold deposits, continued exploration and a growing pipeline of mining projects. However, operating across remote and geographically complex environments means growth depends on more than resource potential alone. 

 At this year’s PNG Industrial & Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo), held in Port Moresby on 1–2 July, IMDEX exhibited alongside our local partner, Dunlop. The two-day event gave us the opportunity to speak directly with customers about the challenges shaping their operations and demonstrate the value of combining global mining technology with strong local expertise. 

A growing sector with complex challenges

Mining continues to play a critical role in PNG's economy. In 2024, the sector contributed approximately 29% of the country's gross domestic product and accounted for around 40% of total export earnings (National Statistics Office of Papua New Guinea 2024; PNG Business News 2025). Recent reforms to PNG's mining legislation have also signalled a new phase of investment, designed to encourage exploration and project development while ensuring greater long-term value for the country (Australia Papua New Guinea Business Council 2026). 

Data quality was a recurring theme at the PNG Expo. While operators are collecting more geological and operational data, inconsistent inputs and fragmented datasets can make it difficult to extract reliable insights. Tech such as IMDEX's Datarock platform use machine learning to convert core imagery and other geological data into consistent analysis ready datasets, helping teams identify patterns and make decisions with greater confidence.  

Another common challenge raised was logistics and supply chain management. PNG's geography, spanning more than 600 islands, combined with remote mine locations, limited transport infrastructure and long supply routes, can make product availability, inventory planning and technical support particularly challenging. Ensuring reliable access to products, technical support and services remains a critical consideration for projects operating far from major infrastructure hubs. IMDEX's xFORM multifunctional drilling fluids can reduce the number of products required on site, simplifying inventory management and lowering logistical complexity.  

IMDEX's LOGRx attracted strong interest at the PNG Expo, generating two trial proposals. Discussions also revealed broader customer demand for integrated structural geology workflows. In one case, conversation about drill core measurements expanded to include ALT optical and acoustic televiewer technology for borehole imaging.

By connecting core-based structural measurements with borehole imaging, processing and interpretation, IMDEX can help customers build a more complete and reliable understanding of structural conditions.

The importance of local partnerships

Supporting customers across Papua New Guinea requires more than technology alone - it requires local expertise, strong relationships and reliable on-the-ground support.

IMDEX works closely with Dunlop, our trusted local third-party representative, to provide customers with access to technology, technical expertise and on-the-ground support. Founded in 1964, Dunlop has extensive experience supporting PNG's mining, industrial, transport and commercial sectors, bringing deep local knowledge and long-established industry relationships. 

Combining Dunlop's understanding of the PNG market with IMDEX's global technology portfolio enables us to support customers operating in some of the region's most remote and challenging environments. The joint presence at PNG Expo reinforced the strength of this relationship and the value of partnering to deliver practical outcomes for customers.

Looking ahead

The outlook for PNG's mining sector remains positive. The PNG Treasury projects that the mining and quarrying sector will grow by 8.3% in 2026, driven by higher gold and copper production. Continued exploration activity, government initiatives aimed at encouraging investment and expanding project pipelines are expected to create ongoing opportunities for mining companies and technology providers alike. 

Opportunities are also emerging beyond traditional mining. Increasing concern about hotter, drier conditions linked to future El Niño weather patterns is driving interest in water-well drilling. Following two successful projects in this market, it represents another area where IMDEX technologies can deliver value. 

As PNG's resource sector continues to evolve, technology, local expertise and strong partnerships will remain critical to long-term success. Through our partnership with Dunlop and ongoing engagement with customers across the region, IMDEX remains committed to supporting PNG's mining industry with the technology, expertise and local support needed to help operators make more informed decisions and achieve better outcomes.