CAPITAL INVESTMENT BUDGET MARKS COMMITMENT TO ACHIEVING FISCAL BALANCE; MINISTER PALA

BY NIGEL MADO

THE 2026 National Budget Appropriation looks to be framed by tight fiscal framework with hard decisions made in terms of investments.

Minister for National Planning & Monitoring, Sir Ano Pala believes 2026 Capital Investment Budget, guided by the 13-year budget repair strategy, guided by the principles of the 13-year budget repair strategy, this budget reflects the government’s steadfast commitment to achieving fiscal balance in the medium-term and fostering sustainable economic growth in the long term.

Speaking during the Budget Press-Lock-up, the Minister stated that the government has made the decision to ensure that public investment funding is strategically allocated to critical sectors of the economy, embracing the theme “security with growth”.

He said this budget embodies the government’s strong dedication to build a rural-based economy and creating an environment for inclusive growth, further reiterating that it fully supports the government vision of take back PNG and leaving no child behind.

The budget within the framework of the national medium-term development 4, plans to grow the economy to K200 billion by 2030 and also plans to create 1 million additional jobs by 2027, eventually improve the quality of life for all Papua New Guineans.

Sir Ano said as the country approaches the conclusion of the MTDP4 term in 2027, the successful implementation of the 2026 capital investment budget is critical for Government to meet key targets already in the medium-term plans.