PRESS RELEASE | National ICT Indicators Report 2025
Thursday 11 December 2025, Port Moresby. I am pleased to present the National ICT Indicators Report 2025, the second edition of Papua New Guinea’s National ICT Indicators publication. This report provides the ICT industry sector performance overview and key developments over the period 2020 to 2024 and reaffirms NICTA’s commitment to maintaining an evidence-based approach to ICT regulation and sector oversight.
Since the publication of the inaugural edition in 2022, Papua New Guinea’s ICT industry has continued to evolve. Major structural changes including the amalgamation of Telikom PNG Limited and Bmobile Limited, the transfer of Telikom PNG Limited’s wholesale assets to PNG DataCo Limited, and the entry of new operators such as Vodafone PNG (Digitec Communications Limited) and Telstra Limited have reshaped the sector’s competitive dynamics. These developments, together with the operational impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlight the increasing need for accurate, reliable and timely data to guide policy, regulation, and long-term planning.
Despite challenges in data availability and reporting consistency, this edition of the report presents key indicators covering investment, infrastructure expansion, network coverage, affordability, and service uptake. Over the five year period, total sector investment remained strong at K1.64 billion, driven in part by significant capital expenditure following Vodafone PNG’s entry in 2022.
Infrastructure growth was substantial during the same year, with the construction of 539 new mobile towers, contributing to wider network reach and employment growth across the sector.
However, the findings also highlight areas requiring continued attention. Although infrastructure expanded, mobile population coverage declined from 86% in 2022 to 77% in 2024, signaling persistent gaps in digital accessibility. Affordability remains a challenge for many Papua New Guineans, with mobile broadband prices still above the affordable price target based on an affordability study conducted by NICTA in 2024 to 2025.
To address gaps in operator reporting, NICTA employed statistical estimation and forecasting methods to ensure that national trends are presented as accurately as possible. Strengthening compliance with reporting obligations remains a priority, and NICTA will continue working with licensees to improve data quality and the overall integrity of national ICT statistics.
I would like to sincerely thank the telecommunications operators, wholesale service providers, Internet Service Providers, Broadcasters, Narrowcasters and all ICT stakeholders who contributed directly and indirectly in the support of the publication of this report. I also commend the NICTA team for their commitment to producing this report under challenging circumstances.
As we look ahead, NICTA remains focused on enhancing regulatory frameworks, improving data collection processes, and supporting the development of a more connected, inclusive, and affordable digital future for Papua New Guinea.
Mr Polume Lume
Acting CEO, NICTA