Our History

The Customs organisation in PNG has undergone significant transformation to meet global standards. Today, it actively manages modern challenges like transnational crime, pandemics, and the rapid increase in trade and travel.

Colonial Era & Early Trade

PNG Customs' history dates back over 130 years to the colonial era, born from the necessity to collect tax as trade and commerce expanded.

Actual trading records date to 1884, when Great Britain and Germany claimed Papua and New Guinea respectively. This spurred the creation of laws to impose Customs duty to fund the administration.

September 20, 1888

A milestone date: Port Moresby and Samarai were proclaimed as the first official Customs ports. At this time, Mr. David M. Ballantyne was appointed Collector of Customs for Samarai, becoming the first Customs officer in PNG.

Samarai served as a vital hub before WWII, acting as a jumping-off point for miners and the principal mission station for eastern Papua.

Unification and Modern Milestones

Post-WWII, Papua and New Guinea were unified under Australian administration. While the current Customs Act dates to 1952, it has evolved through numerous amendments.

1966 The first six local officers were recruited and trained, 78 years after the initial proclamation.
1975 PNG gained independence, and a major milestone was reached as the first five female Customs officers were recruited.