PETROLEUM Minister Hon. Jimmy Maladina, MP, has welcomed ExxonMobil PNG Antelope Limited’s formal assumption of operatorship of the Papua LNG Project from TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited, effective 15 October 2026, marking a significant transition in the project’s leadership.
Minister Maladina congratulated ExxonMobil on assuming responsibility for one of Papua New Guinea’s most significant resource development projects and expressed the Government’s confidence in the company’s technical expertise, operational experience and proven record in delivering major LNG developments in Papua New Guinea.
“On behalf of the Government of Papua New Guinea, I congratulate ExxonMobil on assuming operatorship of the Papua LNG Project.
ExxonMobil has demonstrated its capacity to develop and operate world-class LNG facilities through the successful delivery and operation of the PNG LNG Project. We are confident this experience will contribute significantly towards advancing Papua LNG to Final Investment Decision and ultimately into construction and production,” Minister Maladina said.
The Minister also acknowledged and expressed the Government’s sincere appreciation to TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited for its leadership, commitment and substantial contributions in progressing the Papua LNG Project to its present stage.
“I wish to particularly thank TotalEnergies for its dedication and the considerable technical, financial and organisational resources invested in advancing this project over the years. Its contribution in progressing the development concept, engineering studies, regulatory processes and other critical project requirements has established an important foundation for the next phase of development.”
Minister Maladina further added that the transfer of operatorship represents an important transition in the project’s development and confirms the Government’s commitment to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to achieve a timelv FID.
“Papua LNG remains a national economic priority. Its development will generate substantial investment, employment, business opportunities and Government revenues, while strengthening Papua New Guinea’s position as a competitive and reliable supplier of LNG to international markets.”
“Our immediate priority is to maintain the momentum already achieved and work collaboratively with the project partners to bring Papua LNG to FID at the earliest opportunity.”
Minister Maladina concluded by welcoming ExxonMobil’s expanded role in Papua New Guinea’s petroleum sector and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to a stable, predictable and internationally competitive investment environment.
“Papua New Guinea has enormous petroleum resource potential. With Papua LNG, the proposed P’nyang LNG Project and other emerging developments, we have an opportunity to sustain investment and economic growth well into the future. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with ExxonMobil and all our development partners in realising this potential for the benefit of our country ana our people.”