This publication is the eighth in the current series of Papua New Guinea Economic Updates (PNG EU). It has two principal aims. First, it analyzes the key recent developments in Papua New Guinea’s economy and places these in a longer-term and global context. Based on these developments and recent policy changes, the PNG EU updates the outlook for the country’s economy and the welfare of its citizens. Second, the PNG EU provides an in-depth examination of a selected development ssue and evaluates the implications of recent trends and policy reforms in terms of the government’s stated development objectives. It is intended for a broad audience, including policy makers, business leaders, and the community of analysts and professionals engaged in Papua New Guinea’s evolving economy.