Founded in West New Britain Province in 1967, NBPOL marked the beginning of the commercial palm oil industry in Papua New Guinea. Over the decades, the Group has expanded its footprint and diversified its operations across the region.
Key milestones include the acquisition of beef and copra operations in Numundo in 1993, expansion into the Solomon Islands in 2006 through Guadalcanal Plains Palm Oil Limited (GPPOL), and the addition of commercial sugar operations with Ramu Agri‑Industries Limited in 2008. Further growth followed with the expansion of palm oil operations into Oro, Milne Bay and New Ireland provinces.
Today, NBPOL operates across multiple provinces, contributing to economic development while supporting local employment, smallholders and landowners.
In addition to our operational footprint, NBPOL plays an active role in developing local enterprise capabilities. We work closely with local vendors and contractors to build technical skills, improve safety and quality standards, and strengthen long‑term commercial partnerships. This approach supports inclusive economic growth while enhancing supply chain resilience across the regions where we operate.
Home to an unparalleled biological diversity, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands are two of the most ethnically diverse countries on the planet. As trustworthy custodians of these unique ecosystems, we have always strived to be responsible operators. We are cognisant of social, economic and environmental concerns while balancing cultural sensitivities and the environment.
Beyond palm oil, NBPOL operates integrated cattle businesses in Papua New Guinea, producing high‑quality beef under the Ramu and Numundo brands. Our beef operations apply responsible land stewardship, animal welfare standards and sustainable grazing practices, contributing to national food security while supporting local livelihoods and downstream value creation.
NBPOL also understands that local community participation in certified sustainable oil palm is a socio-economic necessity and can also accelerate economic development for the people of PNG and Solomon Islands. Our 100% RSPO certification status is inclusive of the smallholders that we purchase fresh fruit bunches from. We continue to maintain the highest standards for sustainable production.
2024
NBPOL unveiled its new corporate logo, aligning its brand identity with SD Guthrie following the Group’s rebranding. The refreshed logo reflects NBPOL’s continued commitment to sustainability, integration and long‑term growth in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
2023
Opening of the NBPOL Group Corporate office at Mosa, West New Britain Province
2022
The first of our sites (GPPOL) certified under the Palm Oil Network Switzerland.
2021
NBPOL and the NBPO Foundation donated K2.13 million to provincial health authorities in the form of cash, equipment and medical supplies to support the COVID pandemic response
2020
Achieved #1 in ZSL SPOTT ranking
2019
2018-19 Management of palm oil refineries transferred to Sime Darby Oils
2018
Awarded Sustainable Pathfinder Award by Rainforest Alliance (RAN). The first time RAN has awarded such an accolade to a palm oil company.
Established a major conservation project at Higaturu for the Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing Butterfly; the World’s largest and one of the rarest butterflies.
Acquisition of Markham Farming Company Limited (MFCL) in the Markham Valley, which included copra milling factories in Madang and Buka.
2017
First SAN Standard certification achieved
Achieved #2 SPOTT ranking NBPOL
Management Training Academy established
2015
Acquired by Sime Darby Plantation Sdn Bhd
Delisted from London Stock Exchange
2012
Full RSPO-certified, including smallholders
2010
Acquisition of MBE, HOP and POL (the Kula Group)
2009
Listing on London Stock Exchange
2008
Acquisition of RAI
1st company in the world to become RSPO certified
2006
Acquisition of GPPOL
1997
NBPOL Foundation established
1970
Dami Oil Palm Research Station established
1967
NBPOL established at WNB