IFC Invests in TWM Group to Spur Papua New Guinea’s Waste Management Industry, Create Jobs, and Drive Innovation and Sustainability

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, September 24, 2025- Creating jobs, protecting public health, and building a more sustainable environment are central to Papua New Guinea (PNG)'s growth as the country marks 50 years of independence and 50 years of partnership with the World Bank Group (WBG). To help advance these goals, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the WBG focused on the private sector, is investing $10.2 million in TWM Group, the country's leading waste management company, through a PNG kina-denominated fixed-rate loan.

The financing, supported by the World Bank's IDA Private Sector Window, will enable TWM to develop the country's first integrated waste facility meeting international standards, reducing unmanaged waste and safeguarding public health. With rapid industrialization and fast population growth putting pressure on services, sustainable waste management solutions are critical to economic resilience.

At a time PNG is envisioning regulation of waste, growing volumes of unmanaged waste are particularly urgent, impacting both public health and the country's unique natural environment. IFC's partnership with TWM Group aims to address these challenges by setting new benchmarks for modern, private sector-led solutions.

"This investment demonstrates global confidence in TWM Group and will enable us to expand the scale and scope of our work, ready to service growing volumes of waste from multiple industries across PNG and the Pacific Islands region," said TWM Group Managing Director Kori Chan. "As we celebrate 50 years of PNG's independence, we are proud of TWM's contribution to protecting our pristine environment and diverse culture, while remaining focused on delivering our vision."

"IFC is a leading investor in the waste management sector, leveraging extensive experience across the value chain to deliver impactful solutions," said Erik Becker, IFC's Senior Manager for Infrastructure and Natural Resources in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. "Since 2021, we have been working with TWM Group through market assessments, business planning, environmental and social screening, and gender diagnostics, to help develop Pacific Islands' first integrated waste management facility, designed to handle hazardous and industrial waste in compliance with international standards. This investment will establish new standards for environmental sustainability and operational excellence, showcasing a one World Bank Group approach to support private sector-led and sustainable waste management in PNG and the Pacific region."

TWM Group was also one of 18 companies participating in the Meri Save Trades (Women Know Trades) initiative in PNG, led by IFC in partnership with the Business Coalition for Women, supported by the governments of Australia and New Zealand. The initiative helped more women to enter the workforce and excel in industries traditionally dominated by men.