Chiefs to provide huge economic boost to PNG: Marape

Papua New Guinea Chiefs entry into the NRL is being positioned as more than just a sports dream, but a long-term business and nation-building strategy.

PNG Prime Minister James Marape says the establishment of the Chiefs is about building the country’s economy, creating jobs and bringing the nation together under one identity.

Marape said NRL Chairman Peter V'Landys understands that this move is not just about winning games or running a sports franchise.

“This is a national unification strategy deployed under the flag of rugby league,” Marape said.

With rugby league being the No.1 sport in Papua New Guinea, having a team compete in the world’s top professional competition is seen as a major economic opportunity.

The Prime Minister believes that by 2028, Port Moresby will undergo a major lifestyle and business transformation.

Every second week during the season, the city is expected to welcome between 3,000 and 5,000 visitors travelling in for home games.

This regular flow of visitors could inject millions of PNG Kina into the local economy each season.

Hotels will need more rooms. Airlines and transport operators will carry more passengers. Restaurants, security companies, event managers, and small roadside vendors will all benefit from increased spending.

“That means the economy will be at its high peak,” Marape said. “We must have the ability to handle 3,000 to 5,000 additional visitors every second week beginning 2028 and onwards.”

The Chiefs’ headquarters is already established inside the Santos National Football Stadium, showing that preparations are moving from talk to action.

This signals confidence to investors and business partners that the project is real and progressing.

The entry into the NRL is also expected to drive improvements in infrastructure — including stadium facilities, roads, security, accommodation, and tourism services.

These developments will not only serve rugby league but also support conferences, concerts, and other major international events.

Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged the strong support from the Australian Government in helping bring the vision closer to reality.

The partnership highlights how sport can strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Papua New Guinea and Australia.

From a business perspective, the NRL franchise is shaping up as more than a sporting investment.

It is a strategic plan to grow tourism, boost local industries, create employment, and unite the country under one powerful national brand.