Prime Minister James Marape has called for stronger partnerships with major Chinese energy companies as part of Papua New Guinea’s long-term transition toward clean energy and electric transportation.

During the final day of his official visit to Shenzhen, Prime Minister Marape met with executives from Shenzhen Energy and BYD to discuss investment opportunities in renewable energy, battery technology, and electric vehicle manufacturing.

The PM said Papua New Guinea has the natural resources needed to become a major clean energy producer in the region.

“We offer clean energy opportunities that can help promote energy security for Papua New Guinea, China, and the wider world,” PM Marape said.

At Shenzhen Energy, the PM explored technologies used in renewable power generation and proposed future collaboration using PNG’s hydro, solar, and geothermal resources. He also floated the idea of developing battery storage systems capable of exporting clean energy solutions internationally.

During discussions with BYD, one of the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers, Marape proposed positioning Papua New Guinea as both an energy supplier and a potential manufacturing base for electric vehicles.

“If we can transition away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles over the next decade, we will be solving a major part of the global climate challenge,” he stated.

The Prime Minister linked the push for renewable energy to the growing impacts of climate change already being experienced in Milne Bay Province, including rising sea levels and changing weather patterns following Cyclone Maila.

“We only have one planet, and we need solution creators,” he said.

PM Marape assured investors that PNG remains open for business, highlighting the country’s stable legal system, long-standing investment history, and commitment to the “One China” policy since 1976.

He also revealed growing local demand for electric vehicles, noting that a Papua New Guinean businessman has already placed an order for 500 BYD vehicles, with the first shipment expected to arrive this week.

The PM concluded by inviting both companies to enter into formal agreements with Papua New Guinea to support long-term clean energy development and the nationwide transition to electric vehicles.

“This partnership can help eliminate carbon footprints, strengthen energy security, and secure a cleaner future for generations to come,” Marape said.