SEZA GIVES BAOSEN INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS THE GREEN LIGHT TO BUILD “PNG TRADE CENTRE” AT FIVE MILE
BY RAYLEEN WANJIMAN
THE Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZA) has formally granted its fifth Special Economic Zone licence to Baosen International Holdings Limited, marking another major step in the Marape–Rosso Government’s push to grow foreign direct investment and diversify Papua New Guinea’s economy.
The licence was officially announced by SEZA Board Chairman Dr. Lawrence Sause during a press conference held at Dynasty Tower in Port Moresby on 15th December 2025 confirming Baosen International as the developer of the PNG Trade Centre project at Five Mile.
Dr. Sause described the approval as a significant milestone, saying the project aligns with national development priorities and is expected to contribute to international trade, investment inflows and long-term economic growth.
He took the opportunity to explain the SEZ licensing process, clarifying that while proposed SEZ projects are submitted through government channels including the Minister for International Trade and Investment,the National Executive Council’s role is limited to confirming alignment with Papua New Guinea’s broad development goals.
Dr. Sause stressed that under the SEZA Act, the National Executive Council does not approve taxation incentives or land leases for SEZ projects. Those decisions, are the sole responsibility of the Special Economic Zone Authority Board.
According to Dr. Sause, the SEZ Board conducts its own independent and rigorous assessments before issuing any licence, including cost-benefit analysis, financial modelling and extensive due diligence.
He said developers are assessed against up to 39 criteria, with key requirements including strong financial capacity, five years of audited financial statements, sound financial management and bank guarantees to support investment and trade activities.
Dr. Sause also highlighted the importance of land compliance, stating that developers must secure legal land titles or formal consent before their applications can be approved.
He said the Board carries a fiduciary responsibility to protect Papua New Guinea from unqualified or high-risk investors, noting that the Authority remains cautious when approving licences to avoid exposing workers, landowners and the government to financial or development risks.
Dr. Sause confirmed that Baosen International Holdings Limited met all regulatory, financial and legal requirements, and demonstrated a proven track record in large-scale mixed-use developments.
The Board was satisfied that the project would deliver tangible economic benefits, including foreign currency inflows, trade opportunities and long-term development outcomes consistent with Papua New Guinea’s national objectives.
