Bank of Papua New Guinea Completes Digital Kina CBDC Field Trials

The Bank of Papua New Guinea has successfully completed field trials for its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), Digital Kina. The proof-of-concept (PoC) project, supported by Japanese technology firm Soramitsu and Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, tested a secure, 24/7 payment infrastructure capable of instant settlements and cross-border transactions.

Using Soramitsu’s SORA v3 Hub Chain, the bank and local businesses in Port Moresby conducted real-time payments and individual remittances through a user-friendly mobile app. The trials also validated enhanced security features, such as fund recovery in cases of theft or loss.

The Bank of Papua New Guinea plans to expand testing with a broader user base to refine the system and gather feedback, paving the way for a full-scale rollout.

George Awap, Assistant Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, stated, “The Digital Kina CBDC PoC demonstrates how innovative ideas can reshape financial interactions. By addressing long-standing challenges, we’re building a system that reflects the resilience of our people.”