Company Registration in Papua New Guinea- An Overview

Aspect Details
Timeline The timeline to obtain a Company Registration in Papua New Guinea takes around 8 to 15 working days.
Benefits

The benefits of obtaining a Company Registration in Papua New Guinea are as discussed below:

  • Access to IPA Incentives
  • Enhanced Credibility
  • Access to Funding
  • Legal Recognition
  • Ease of Doing Business
  • Potential for Growth and Diversification
Documents Needed

The documents needed to apply for Company Registration in Papua New Guinea are provided below:

  • Memorandum and Articles of Association
  • Name reservation application to the Investment Promotion Authority
  • Information about the directors and shareholders
  • Copy of police clearance report or character check report
  • Notarized copy of passport and visas of directors and shareholders
  • Designated registered office address
  • List of directors and shareholders
  • Copy of bank statement
  • Written consent from individuals agreeing to act as directors
  • Business Tax Number issued by the Internal Revenue Commission
  • Business licenses from relevant business authorities
Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria required for Company Registration in Papua New Guinea are as provided below:

  • Conduct thorough market research and analysis
  • Formulates business expansion strategies
  • Facilitating connections with potential partners, investors, and mentors
  • A minimum number of one shareholder is required
  • A minimum of one director, who is either an individual or corporate entity is required
  • No minimum share capital requirement
Types

The types of Business Structure in Papua New Guinea are as provided below:

  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Limited Liability Company
  • Partnership
  • Branch Office
  • Representative Office
  • Wholly-Foreign Owned Entities
  • Joint Venture
  • Overseas Company
Top Businesses Seeking Company Registration in Papua New Guinea

The top businesses seeking Company Registration in Papua New Guinea are as provided below:

  • Gold and Copper Mining Company
  • Agribusiness – Coffee or Cocoa Plantation & Processing
  • Fishing and Seafood Export Company
  • LNG or Petroleum Exploration & Distribution Business
  • Timber Logging and Wood Processing Unit
  • Boutique Hotel or Eco-Resort
  • Construction Firm for Road & Housing Projects
  • Local Food Processing and Packaging Business
  • Solar Power Installation and Maintenance Company
  • Mobile App Development or Fintech Startup
Process

The process to obtain a Company Registration in Papua New Guinea is as provided below:

  • Register a Business Name in PNG
  • Preparation of Company Documents
  • Identify Company Officers and Shareholders
  • Register Your Company
  • Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation
  • Register for Taxes
  • Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses
Post-Company Registration Compliance Requirements

The post-company registration compliance requirements are as provided below:

  • Businesses with turnover above $100,000 must register for VAT
  • Receive inspection by Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS)
  • Register for statutory training tax through Fiji National University (FNU)
  • Obtain national fire authority certificate from National Fire Authority (FNA)
  • Apply for Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) registration
  • Draft employment agreements in compliance with Fiji labour laws
  • File annual returns with the Registrar of Companies
  • Setup accounting system and financial record keeping
  • Obtain sector-specific business licenses from relevant municipal body (if any)
How Enterslice Can Help You?
  • Trusted by 500+ international clients across various industries
  • Ensure meeting deadlines and delivering within agreed-upon timeframes
  • Embraces innovation and technology to enhance efficiency of services
  • Promotes a transparent and cost-effective process for company registration in Papua New Guinea
  • Offers quality services resulting in client satisfaction
  • Provides cryptocurrency and fintech advisory services in Papua New Guinea
  • Provides professional and tax advisory assistance at Enterslice
  • Manages accounting, auditing, and day-to-day financial transactions
  • Provides customized business solutions for startups and foreign investors
  • Provide due diligence solutions before making any crucial decision for company formation in Papua New Guinea
  • Provide professional technology-based legal services

Proceed with Enterslice for Company Setup in Papua New Guinea

Let Enterslice assist you in hassle-free company setup in Papua New Guinea, the Pacific’s emerging business hub.

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Understanding Company Registration in Papua New Guinea!

Papua New Guinea, which stands for PNG is an emerging strategic business hub in the Pacific, offering guaranteed company registrations services into their regional markets. The company registration in Papua New Guinea further allows foreign investors to benefit from 100% foreign ownership, simplified tax structure, and access to priority sectors, including mining, fisheries, agriculture, and tourism.

The process for SME registration Papua New Guinea is supported by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) through its online registry system (ORS), designed to formalize entrepreneurs seeking business setup in PNG. Whether you are planning to setup a local enterprise or a foreign-owned company, the PNG’s regulatory framework ensures ease of doing business while safeguarding your investment.

From the rick natural resources to its trade connectivity with Asia-Pacific countries, Papua New Guinea is considered an ideal destination or both SMEs and large corporations looking for business expansion. Connect Enterslice to streamline your company formation in Papua New Guinea, with no physical presence and no hidden charges!

Robust natural resource-based economy with global export potential

100% foreign ownership permitted

Online business registration via IPA portal

No exchange controls on repatriation of profits

Government incentives for agriculture, mining, and energy projects

Access to local and regional financing opportunities

Strategic location near Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia

Signed bilateral trade agreements with Asia-Pacific economies

Business Structures for Foreign Company Registration in PNG

The different types of business structures for foreign company registration in PNG are as discussed below:

Sole Proprietorship

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is one of the simplest forms of business structure, owned and operated by a single individual who holds full personal liability for all debts and obligations of the business.

Limited Liability Company

Limited Liability Company

A limited liability company is one of the most popular and preferred business structures for foreign investors for company registration in Papua New Guinea. It offers access to regulated capital and provides limited liability protection up to the amount of shareholding held by them.

Partnership

Partnership

A partnership is an agreement between two or more business entities or individuals, where partners bear the unlimited and joint liability, with no separate legal existence.

Branch Office

Branch Office

A branch office is merely an extension of a foreign company, which conducts activities predetermined by the foreign parent company. However, setting up a branch office enables the integration of the financial outcomes of its parent company.

Representative Office

Representative Office

A representative office, which is similar to a branch office, is permitted to have 100% foreign ownership, with a bar on spreading and promoting materials of its foreign parent company.

Wholly-Foreign Owned Entities

Wholly-Foreign Owned Entities

A foreign company registration in PNG, which allows full foreign ownership with directors of any nationality, subject to obtaining an IPA certificate.

Joint Venture

Joint Venture

A joint venture is an unincorporated arrangement where two or more entities collaborate on a specific project or business activity.

Overseas Company

Overseas Company

An overseas company in Papua New Guinea is a type of legal business entity that ensures compliance with national, state, provincial, or local laws.

How to Register a Company in Papua New Guinea?

The procedure to register a company in Papua New Guinea is as follows:

Choose a Company Name

Initially, the entrepreneurs must choose and reserve an appropriate company name with the Investment Promotion Authority, which is eligible to provide the guidelines for acceptable names.

Preparation of Company Documents

In the next step, the applicants must prepare company formation documents, including articles of association, an application form, applicable to all types of business structures.

Identify Company Officers and Shareholders

Next, the applicants must identify and appoint one director and representative, having a minimum age above 18 years of age.

Register Your Company

Next, the applicants must file an application and register their company with the Investment Promotion Authority, either in person or online.

Issuance of Certificate of Incorporation

Upon approval of the application, the duly issued certificate of incorporation must be downloaded in electronic form.

Register for Taxes

Once the certificate of incorporation is issued, the entrepreneurs must register for taxes with the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC).

Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

Lastly, the businesses must obtain necessary permits and licenses, based on the nature of activities and industry regulatory requirements, from the concerned authorities.

Timeframe for Company Registration in Papua New Guinea

The total timeframe for company registration in Papua New Guinea takes around 8 to 15 working days, varying based on accuracy of documents, responsiveness of shareholders, and processing time by PNG authorities.

Company Name Reservation: 2 to 3 Working Days

It takes around 2 to 3 working days for the company name reservation, through the IPA online registry system.

Document Preparation and Submission: 2 to 3 Working Days

It takes around 2 to 3 working days for the preparation and submission of documents such as consent forms from all directors, AOA, identification documents, etc.

Company Registration with IPA: 3 to 5 Working Days

It takes 3 to 5 working days for securing IPA company registration and issuing a company extract, confirming official registration.

TIN from IRC: 2 to 3 Working Days

The time taken to apply for a TIN registration with the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) takes around 2 to 3 working days.

Other Relevant Registration: Variable

The time taken for obtaining other relevant registration from the concerned authorities Papua New Guinea varies based on the requirements, delays, and other factors.

Documents for Papua New Guinea Company Incorporation

Have a look at the following list of documents needed for obtaining Papua New Guinea company incorporation, as mentioned below:

Memorandum and Articles of Association

Name reservation application to the Investment Promotion Authority

Information about the directors and shareholders

Copy of police clearance report or character check report

Notarized copy of passports and visas of directors and shareholders

Designated registered office address

List of directors and shareholders

Copy of bank statement

Written consent from individuals agreeing to act as directors

Business Tax Number issued by the Internal Revenue Commission

Business licenses from relevant business authorities

Benefits of Company Registration in Papua New Guinea

The benefits of company registration in Papua New Guinea are as discussed below:

Andorra Business Incorporation

Access to IPA Incentives

Company registration in Papua New Guinea offers access to Investment Promotion Authority incentives such as tax holidays, reduced tax rates, and other benefits for qualifying projects and promotes investment opportunities.

Enhanced Credibility

The entrepreneurs seeking company registration in Papua New Guinea enhance business credibility and reputation, helping build trust with clients, investors, and regulatory bodies.

Access to Funding

Entrepreneurs seeking company registration in Papua New Guinea offer access to funding and credit options from investors, banks, and financial institutions, making it easier than unincorporated businesses.

Legal Recognition

Company registration in Papua New Guinea provides legal recognition to companies with a distinct legal personality, offering protection from all forms of business debts and obligations.

Ease of Doing Business

The PNG government, which facilitates ease of doing business, allows for easier registration of businesses, tax identification numbers, and business names with the IPA.

Potential for Growth and Diversification

The PNG’s commodity-based economy provides potential for growth and diversification of resources in agriculture, mining, oil, and gas industries.

PNG Business Licensing Requirements

The PNG business licensing requirements needed to setup a company in Papua New Guinea are as discussed below:

  • Market Research and Analysis: The applicants seeking company setup in Papua New Guinea must conduct thorough market research and analysis, analysing competitors and industry trends.
  • Strategic Planning: The entrepreneurs applying for company setup in Papua New Guinea formulate business expansion strategies, ensuring the setting of realistic objectives and milestones.
  • Networking and Partnership: The entrepreneurs applying for company formation in Papua New Guinea ensure facilitating connections with potential partners, investors, and mentors.
  • No. of Shareholders: A minimum number of one shareholder is required for Papua New Guinea company incorporation.
  • No. of Directors: According to the PNG Companies Act, a minimum of one director, who is either an individual or corporate entity is required for company incorporation in Papua New Guinea.
  • Share Capital: There is no minimum share capital requirement for company formation in Papua New Guinea. However, the capital should be adequate based on the nature and size of the business.
  • Foreign Investors: The foreign investors who own more than 50% of ownership, are entitled to a certificate from an Investment Promotion Authority (IPA).

Top Industries for Company Setup in Papua New Guinea

The list of top 10 industries and businesses permitted for company setup in Papua New Guinea is provided below:

Industries for Company Registration in Papua New Guinea

  • Mining and Minerals Industry
  • Oil and Gas Industry
  • Agriculture and Agro-Processing Industry
  • Forestry and Timber Industry
  • Tourism and Hospitality Industry
  • Fisheries and Marine Resources Industry
  • Construction and Infrastructure Development Industry
  • Renewable Energy Industry
  • Telecommunication and ICT Industry
  • Manufacturing Industry

Businesses Permitted for Company Setup in Papua New Guinea

  • Gold and Copper Mining Company
  • Agribusiness – Coffee or Cocoa Plantation & Processing
  • Fishing and Seafood Export Company
  • LNG or Petroleum Exploration & Distribution Business
  • Timber Logging and Wood Processing Unit
  • Boutique Hotel or Eco-Resort
  • Construction Firm for Road & Housing Projects
  • Local Food Processing and Packaging Business
  • Solar Power Installation and Maintenance Company
  • Mobile App Development or Fintech Startup

Post-PNG Company Formation Services

Once your company is successfully registered, the entrepreneurs must adhere to post-PNG company formation services, as discussed below:

  • Secure accounting and tax obligations
  • Ensure compliance with annual reporting requirements
  • File application for approval to change business name
  • Application for extension of time and change of balance date
  • Ensure setup of bank account at PNG commercial bank
  • Ensure registration for Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Register with the Investment Promotion Authority
  • Get sector-specific business licenses from the relevant municipal body (if any)
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Why Enterslice for Company setup in Papua New Guinea?

With 10+ years of expertise we hold a global network of legal consultants embarking the journey of company setup in Papua New Guinea. Connect us today to get expert guidance for business expansion in the regulatory environment of PNG:

  • Trusted by 1000+ international clients for company setup in Papua New Guinea
  • Ensure meeting deadlines and delivering within agreed-upon timeframes
  • Embraces innovation and technology to enhance efficiency of services
  • Promotes a transparent and cost-effective process for company registration
  • Offers quality services resulting in client satisfaction
  • Provides cryptocurrency and fintech advisory services in PNG
  • Provides professional and tax advisory assistance at Enterslice
  • Manages accounting, auditing, and day-to-day financial transactions
  • Provides customized business solutions for startups and foreign investors
  • Provide due diligence solutions before making any crucial decision
  • Provide professional technology-based legal services
  • Keeps abreast with regulatory changes and regular updates
  • Assists cross-border operations and insights into global regulatory framework
  • Holds a committed support group and talented resources

FAQs on Papua New Guinea Company Incorporation

Have a look at the following answers to the most asked questions:

The requirements to register a company in PNG are as discussed below:

  • Conduct thorough market research and analysis
  • Formulates business expansion strategies
  • Facilitating connections with potential partners, investors, and mentors
  • A minimum number of one shareholder is required
  • A minimum of one director, who is either an individual or corporate entity is required
  • No minimum share capital requirement

Yes, the foreign entrepreneurs, including fully foreign owned companies are eligible to own a business in Papua New Guinea.

A sole proprietorship, limited liability company, partnership, branch office, representative office, wholly-foreign owned entity, joint venture, and overseas company are some of the Papua New Guinea company types registered under the regulations administered by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA).

The requirements for corporate compliance in PNG means fulfilling the legal and regulatory requirements necessary to operate your legal business in Papua New Guinea. Have a look at some of the post-company registration compliances as discussed below:

  • Secure accounting and tax obligations
  • Ensure compliance with annual reporting requirements
  • File application for approval to change business name
  • Application for extension of time and change of balance date
  • Ensure setup of bank account at PNG commercial bank
  • Ensure registration for Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Register with the Investment Promotion Authority
  • Get sector-specific business licenses from relevant municipal body (if any)

To invest in companies in Papua New Guinea, the entrepreneurs must buy and sell stocks listed on PNGX Market through a broker.

The top industries for Papua New Guinea company incorporation are oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and mining activities such as gold, copper and silver.

Lae is PNG's key industrial hub, and it also hosts PNG's busiest international cargo port.

Entrepreneurs prefer Enterslice for setting up their business in Papua New Guinea because of our attention to detail and deep understanding of the local regulatory framework, its professionals, and in-depth knowledge ensuring smooth and efficient business setup. However, some of the benefits of opting Enterslice for your business setup in Papua New Guinea are as follows:

  • Professional Support
  • 24×7 Customer Support
  • Highly Integrated IT Team
  • Competent Team of Lawyers, CAs, Cost Accountants, CSs, and CPAs
  • All-inclusive solution for our clients

No, Papua New Guinea is not officially a tax haven for foreign investors setting up their business. However, it does offer several tax advantages and investment incentives, making it more attractive for doing business, particularly in key sectors such as mining, agriculture, fisheries, and energy.

The GST system also known as the invoice credit method of collection in Papua New Guinea is imposes a rate of 10% on most goods and services. However, there are several exceptions to this, such as certain basic food items, and medical services.

A standardized corporate tax rate of 30% applies to all company resident in Papua New Guinea.

Have a look at some of the common challenges of doing business in Papua New Guinea, as discussed below:

  • Time-taking and delay in taking bureaucratic approval
  • Complexities involved in land ownership and property acquisition
  • Challenges related to obtaining land leases and dealing with customary landowners
  • Face several business and investment constraints
  • Face security concerns in some regions / constraints in business operations

The list of five important business laws in Papua New Guinea (PNG) are as enlisted below:

  • Business Names Act 2014
  • Companies (Amendment) Act 2014
  • Capital Market Act 2015
  • Central Depositories Act 2015
  • Securities Commission Act 2015

The IPA which stands for Investment Promotion Authority is a statutory body established to promote and facilitate investment within the country. It plays a crucial role in regulating business through various programs and services, including maintaining a business registry, certifying foreign entrepreneurs, promoting investment opportunities, identifying export markets, and disseminating investor information.

Gold and Copper Mining Company, Agribusiness – Coffee or Cocoa Plantation & Processing, Fishing and Seafood Export Company, LNG or Petroleum Exploration & Distribution Business, Timber Logging and Wood Processing Unit, and Boutique Hotel or Eco-Resort are some of the best business forms to start in Papua New Guinea.

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