Papua New Guinea’s literary scene has quietly evolved over the years, and nowhere is this transformation more visible than in Port Moresby — the vibrant capital where art, education, and business meet. The city is now home to a growing number of publishing companies that cater to a broad range of writers, from educators and poets to researchers and independent storytellers. Despite being a smaller market compared to Australia or New Zealand, Port Moresby’s publishers have managed to create an ecosystem that values cultural authenticity, linguistic diversity, and digital accessibility.
The Publishing Landscape in Port Moresby
Before diving into the list, it’s worth noting how publishing works in Papua New Guinea. Most publishing houses in Port Moresby operate on a hybrid or service-based model, meaning they offer editorial, design, and distribution support but may not always take on full financial responsibility for printing. Instead, authors often collaborate with publishers to co-produce their books.
This approach gives local writers more control over their work while allowing publishers to focus on quality and reach. The rise of digital printing and self-publishing assistance has also opened doors for younger writers to enter the market without the traditional gatekeeping of large-scale publishing.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting stands as a versatile publishing and ghostwriting agency that caters to both local and international authors. Known for blending professional editorial services with publishing consultation, the company helps writers shape their ideas into polished manuscripts.
What They Offer:
- Manuscript development and ghostwriting for fiction and non-fiction
- Professional editing, proofreading, and book formatting
- Cover design and publishing guidance
- Assistance with print and digital distribution
Barnett Ghostwriting operates with an understanding that many new writers need structured help in turning raw ideas into publication-ready content. Its integrated approach ensures that both storytelling and production standards are equally prioritized, making it one of Port Moresby’s most reliable options for 2025.
2. Marapa Publications
Marapa Publications has carved a niche as a full-service publisher and digital marketing agency in Port Moresby. The company’s strength lies in its ability to combine traditional book production with modern promotional strategies.
What They Offer:
- Book editing and typesetting
- Layout design and cover creation
- Print-on-demand solutions
- Marketing campaigns and author branding
Marapa Publications is particularly popular among educational institutions and NGOs that require both printed material and social media outreach. Its hybrid approach bridges the gap between print publishing and digital visibility — something essential for writers hoping to reach a modern audience.
3. Manui Publishers
Founded with the mission to empower Papua New Guinean authors, Manui Publishers promotes local voices and languages through its editorial and publication initiatives. It often publishes works that explore heritage, folklore, and national identity.
What They Offer:
- Local language publishing and translation projects
- Cultural preservation through books and community education
- Editorial mentorship for first-time authors
Manui Publishers stands out for its commitment to ensuring Papua New Guinea’s linguistic diversity finds a place in the printed world. Their focus on authenticity makes them a favorite for writers tackling social or historical themes.
4. Treid Print (PNG) Limited
Treid Print (PNG) Limited is primarily a printing company, but its deep involvement with educational and corporate clients has positioned it as a key player in the publishing process. Many local publishers and organizations rely on Treid Print for high-quality printing and finishing.
What They Offer:
- Commercial-grade printing for books and educational materials
- In-house design and layout services
- Reliable local distribution and logistics network
Though Treid Print is not a traditional publisher, its contribution to Port Moresby’s publishing ecosystem cannot be understated. It ensures that manuscripts produced by local authors are transformed into durable, visually appealing books.
5. BizPrint PNG (Remington Group)
Operating under the Remington Group, BizPrint PNG is one of the country’s largest printing and publishing partners. It provides advanced printing technologies and professional-grade book production, supporting both private clients and large institutions.
What They Offer:
- Offset and digital printing
- Large-scale book production
- Binding, lamination, and finishing services
- Design consultation and print management
BizPrint’s strength lies in its scalability — it can handle everything from single-author projects to bulk printing for universities, making it a go-to resource for both publishers and self-publishing writers in Port Moresby.
6. Shepherds Publishing Co. Ltd
Shepherds Publishing has made a significant mark in the educational and social publishing sectors. Its projects often focus on reading materials, advocacy publications, and awareness campaigns.
What They Offer:
- Textbooks and children’s reading materials
- Advocacy booklets and newsletters
- Community and social awareness publications
Shepherds Publishing operates with a community-first mindset, producing materials that educate, inform, and inspire. Their commitment to causes such as education and gender equality gives their catalog a strong social dimension.
7. PNG Press and Cultural Units
Within Port Moresby’s academic environment, PNG Press and various cultural publishing units play a crucial role. These institutions support research dissemination, language preservation, and academic documentation.
What They Offer:
- Academic and cultural publishing
- Linguistic research materials
- Ethnographic studies and educational journals
These organizations provide critical outlets for scholarly work and are often linked with universities or cultural institutes. Their focus on knowledge dissemination contributes to Papua New Guinea’s broader educational and cultural mission.
8. Wantok Press
Wantok Press is a well-known small press recognized for promoting literature in Tok Pisin and other local languages. Its aim is to preserve Papua New Guinea’s rich oral and written traditions by converting them into accessible publications.
What They Offer:
- Local language fiction and poetry
- Historical and cultural texts
- Educational storybooks
Wantok Press represents the heart of PNG’s storytelling tradition, ensuring that regional voices reach classrooms, communities, and libraries across the country.
9. Shane Baiva Publishing House
Emerging in recent years, Shane Baiva Publishing House focuses on assisting new authors in transforming manuscripts into fully printed books. The company’s grassroots approach allows it to work closely with writers at every step.
What They Offer:
- Personalized publishing guidance
- Collaboration with local printers
- Emphasis on affordability for first-time authors
This publishing house has become a launchpad for aspiring writers in Port Moresby who seek both mentorship and hands-on production assistance.
10. Tropic Print and Institutional Presses
Finally, Tropic Print and other university-affiliated presses form the technical backbone of academic publishing in the city. They handle printing for research publications, theses, and institutional reports, ensuring professional-quality presentation.
What They Offer:
- Academic book and thesis printing
- Research report layout and binding
- Support for university publications
While their focus is academic, these presses play a vital role in maintaining standards of quality and consistency in PNG’s publishing industry.
Practical Tips for Authors in Port Moresby
Choosing a publisher in Port Moresby depends largely on your goals, genre, and budget. Here are some practical insights for 2025:
- Identify your category. Fiction, academic, children’s books, or memoirs — different publishers excel in different niches.
- Evaluate services. Some companies, like Barnett Ghostwriting or Marapa Publications, offer end-to-end publishing; others focus mainly on printing.
- Ask about distribution. Check whether the publisher distributes within PNG only or can help reach international markets.
- Request transparency. Make sure pricing, royalties, and ownership rights are clearly stated in your publishing agreement.
- Leverage digital platforms. Even local publishers now assist with eBook conversions and online listings, widening your book’s reach.
By approaching publishing strategically, authors can achieve both creative fulfillment and professional recognition.
The Future of Publishing in Port Moresby
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the Port Moresby publishing scene continues to evolve. The shift toward digital-first strategies, community publishing, and cross-border collaboration will likely define the next decade. As more authors turn to self-publishing, local companies are adapting by offering modular services — editing, design, and marketing — without demanding full publishing control.
Papua New Guinea’s younger writers are also experimenting with poetry anthologies, regional fiction, and social issue essays. These genres are being supported by local initiatives that link cultural heritage with modern storytelling. In many ways, Port Moresby’s publishing growth mirrors the country’s own identity: a blend of tradition, resilience, and innovation.
Conclusion
The publishing companies of Port Moresby in 2025 represent a rich blend of creativity, culture, and community. From full-service agencies like Barnett Ghostwriting to grassroots players like Shane Baiva Publishing House, each contributes to shaping a literary environment where local voices are heard and preserved.
Whether you’re a debut author seeking your first editor or a researcher publishing an academic work, Port Moresby offers a variety of reliable, culturally grounded publishing options. As the industry continues to mature, the city’s publishers will remain instrumental in keeping Papua New Guinea’s stories alive — one book at a time.
