As the country prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary on 16th September 2025, the National Executive Council (NEC) has taken a bold step into the future by approving a suite of transformative projects focused on blockchain and cryptocurrency.
These initiatives are not just about technology — they are about inclusion, transparency and a modern economy that works for all Papua New Guineans.
Outlined in NEC Decision No. 24/2025, these five blockchain and crypto-related projects form a core part of the Government’s anniversary development agenda, aligned with the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) and Vision 2050. They aim to modernize PNG’s financial system, enhance security, reduce corruption and bring unbanked citizens into the digital economy.
Below are the five projects that will shape PNG’s digital journey into its next 50 years.
1. National AI & Cryptocurrency Development Project
This project seeks to build the foundation for PNG’s digital economy by integrating artificial intelligence with blockchain to develop secure, inclusive financial technology systems. The goal is to create a national infrastructure that enables smarter, more efficient financial services — from mobile banking to smart contracts and digital identity management.
PNG is positioning itself as a potential Pacific leader in AI-powered fintech. The project also envisions training and employment in the digital sector for young Papua New Guineans.
2. Legal Tender Change (September 2025-September 2026)
In a phased transition starting during the 50th Anniversary, the government plans to redesign and reissue national currency — both physical and possibly digital. This move is aimed at tackling PNG’s large informal economy, where billions of Kina remain outside the banking system.
By introducing new legal tender, including digital alternatives, the government hopes to:
Although details are still being finalized, this project could pave the way for a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in the future – Digital Kina.
3. Cryptocurrency, Blockchain and Digital Exchange Development
Approved in earlier NEC decisions but re-emphasized under the 2025 directive, this initiative is designed to create a national digital exchange platform that can handle cryptocurrency and tokenized assets.
The long-term vision is to position PNG as a hub for digital finance in the Pacific. This involves:
It is expected that the exchange platform will be rolled out in phases, starting with sandbox trials and international technical partnerships.
4. Blockchain Payment System
This is the most practical and tangible of all five projects — and potentially the first to reach the people. The blockchain payment system aims to create a secure, transparent and fraud-resistant platform for everyday transactions.
Private sector initiatives such as T4G Pay, developed by Howarig Traders in partnership with Fedrok AG, are leading this effort. Their blockchain-backed wallet, Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals and NFC cards offer a way for individuals and businesses to transact in both kina and crypto.
This system could especially benefit SMEs, market vendors and rural communities by offering low-cost, traceable, and fast payment options.
Since 2019, the Department of Finance has been working on a Blockchain Payment System and this is an ongoing project that will get to its fruition in September 2025 as a gift to the nation.
5. Cybersecurity and Blockchain Integration
To protect the digital systems underpinning this new economy, the government is also investing in cutting-edge cybersecurity technologies. This includes:
This project will ensure that all digital financial services are secure from cyber threats and aligned with global best practices.
A Gift with Long-Term Impact
These five projects are more than just tech upgrades — they are a gift of opportunity. For the people of Papua New Guinea, especially youth and rural populations, this is a chance to participate in a global digital economy on equal footing.
By embracing blockchain and crypto, PNG is sending a powerful message during its golden jubilee: “We are ready for the future.”
The road ahead will require smart policies, trusted regulation and strong public-private partnerships. But if implemented successfully, these projects could transform PNG’s economy, governance and development for the next generation.
Happy 50th Independence, Papua New Guinea — Let’s build a digital nation together.
