At JJ Ship Equip Agencies, supporting mining companies with transportation across the Pacific Ocean is about more than logistics – it’s about connecting a nation.
Reliable transportation is crucial for the mining sector, where sites across the world are known for being remote and difficult to access. This is especially true in Papua New Guinea (PNG), where logistical challenges like lack of infrastructure and inaccessible terrain can hinder the growth of new and existing mines.
The only reliable form of access for many locations across PNG is by boat, with maritime experts working with miners to develop pathways from pit to port and beyond.
One such expert is JJ Ship Equip Agencies (JJSEA), which has become a leader in maritime solutions and rural transportation across PNG.
JJSEA managing director and chief executive officer Dinesh Hapuarachchi knows what it takes to ensure the island nation remains a competitive producer of essential metals and minerals.
“Partnering with globally renowned companies like Jotron, JRC, Onwa Marine and Haining, we provide cutting-edge marine safety products, GMDSS equipment, navigation electronics and lifesaving equipment from life rafts, personal flotation devices and advanced radar systems and explosion-proof equipment,” Hapuarachchi told PNG Mining. “Our expertise extends to the mining sector, supporting logistics and the transportation of minerals, equipment and personnel to remote mining sites.”
From its early days, JJSEA has grown into a vital player in PNG’s maritime and industrial sectors, an upward trajectory supported by the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and safety, culminating in its acquisition of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 9001, 14001, and 14001 certifications.
With branches in Singapore and Sri Lanka, JJSEA aims to combine global partnerships with local expertise to deliver comprehensive solutions to PNG businesses.
“JJSEA provides tailored marine solutions to ensure the safe and efficient transport of minerals, personnel and equipment,” Hapuarachchi said.
“Our commitment to serving remote and rural areas positions us as a key partner for the sector’s ongoing success.”
In 2024, JJSEA played a pivotal role in the Connect PNG program, a national initiative aimed at improving connectivity across the country’s remote regions. The program led to the company signing contracts to serve the districts of North Bougainville, East New Britain, Milne Bay and Morobe with its fleets of vessels.
“The project, spearheaded by PNG’s Department of Transport in collaboration with JJSEA, marked a turning point for communities that have long relied on unsafe banana boats for transportation,” Hapuarachchi said.
“This initiative, celebrated by Department of Transport Secretary Mathew Wowoni, underscores JJSEA’s unwavering commitment to bridging gaps and fostering development through accessible and safe maritime solutions.”
Since the program began, JJSEA built the first roll-on, roll-off vessel for the North Bougainville district, which was scheduled to set sail in early 2025.
“We also collaborated with Kanematsu Corporation in Japan as their local agent on aluminium rescue boats and fisheries research vessels,” Hapuarachchi said.
“Additionally, our partnerships with the PNG Coffee Board, Cocoa Board and Department of Transport support rural farmers through freight subsidy programs that have improved market access.”
JJSEA was in attendance at last year’s PNG Industrial and Mining Resources Exhibition and Conference (PNG Expo), where the company exhibited its range of ventilators, explosion-proof lights and other essential equipment to the local mining and industrial sectors.
“These products enhance safety and efficiency, particularly in challenging environments,” Hapuarachchi said. “Our ability to provide high-quality, globally certified equipment has made us a trusted supplier for both local industries and international vessels.
“Additionally, our in-house life raft servicing, licensed pyrotechnicians and marine survey capabilities ensure we offer comprehensive safety and operational solutions.”
Hapuarachchi emphasised the fact that this trust is what has led to strong partnerships with mining companies across PNG.
“Our customers consistently praise JJSEA for our outstanding after-sales service,” he said.
“Clients also appreciate our responsiveness and the long-term support we provide, from installation and training to maintenance and upgrades.
“These qualities have earned us repeat business and long-standing relationships with customers locally and internationally.”
JJSEA endeavours to offer end-to-end support to its clients, including installation, training and maintenance. Hapuarachchi said the company has brought this holistic approach into the new year.
“In 2025, JJSEA aims to expand its footprint through rural jetty developments, advanced vessel acquisitions and increased support for freight subsidy programs,” he said.
“We plan to introduce innovative marine safety products and navigation technologies while continuing to empower rural communities by transporting cocoa, coffee, copra and timber to markets.
“Our weekly schedules from Lae to rural ports in Morobe, Madang and Oro provinces remain a cornerstone of our service.”
Hapuarachchi wants to see more opportunities grown on PNG shores through the connection of rural communities, enriching of livelihoods and driving of economic growth.
“As an equal-opportunity employer, we are committed to empowering diverse talents while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety and accountability,” he said.
“Our partnerships, innovative solutions and unwavering dedication to PNG’s future make us more than just a maritime service provider – we are a partner in progress.”
This feature appeared in the February–March 2025 issue of PNG Mining.
