Papua New Guinea Joins International Tunnelling Association After 50 Years

Sunday, 11 May 2025– In a historic milestone for infrastructure development, Papua New Guinea has officially been voted in as a new member country of the International Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA) during the World Tunnel Congress held today in Sweden.

Representatives from 80 member countries gathered for the congress, where 46 nations voted in favor of Papua New Guinea’s membership. This marks the first time in the ITA’s 50-year history that PNG has joined the organization, setting the stage for a new era in tunnelling and railway development.

This timely membership comes as Papua New Guinea embarks on transformative infrastructure projects under the Connect PNG Programme, including plans to establish railway systems that require tunnelling through mountainous terrain.

"This membership is not just a win for PNG—it is a strategic step towards embracing global engineering standards and preparing our nation for the next 50 years of advanced transport infrastructure,” said a PNG delegate in attendance.

The International Tunnelling Association plays a crucial role in guiding member nations on best practices in underground construction, safety, and innovation in the tunnelling and railway sectors.

Congratulations are extended to the team behind the Connect PNG Programme and all stakeholders who helped bring Papua New Guinea into this prestigious global engineering community.