Lae Main Market construction begins | LCA Press Release

Lae Main Market redevelopment construction commences

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAE — Construction of the new Lae Main Market formally commenced in September 2025, delivered by PNG-owned Minpac Construction Ltd.

The redevelopment is a joint initiative of the Lae City Authority, the Australian Government, and the New Zealand Government, transforming the central market into a safe, vibrant, and inclusive space for the people of Lae City.

Approximately 97% of the on-site workforce is Papua New Guinean, and the project includes:

Trade Trainees — local tradespeople gaining direct on-the-job construction experience
University Partnerships — the first cohort of PNG Unitech students has officially completed their industrial training on the project

LCA representatives have completed a governance learning visit to Kokopo Market to inform the operational model for the new facility, with a focus on safety, cleanliness, and efficient waste management.

For ongoing updates, see the Lae Main Market Redevelopment project page. Media enquiries: reception@lca.gov.pg.