A New Caledonian delegation led by government member for construction and technological innovation Petelo Sao travelled to Brisbane from August 18 to 20 to participate in the Pacific Infrastructure Conference 2025, a key regional event focused on sustainable infrastructure.
A follow-up meeting was held on September 9 for participants to share feedback on their experience at the conference, which takes place every two years and gathers leaders as well as public and private stakeholders to discuss infrastructure challenges and opportunities across the Pacific.
Sao said New Caledonia’s participation underscored the country’s commitment to innovation and regional cooperation. “Our presence at this conference was not only about showcasing New Caledonia’s know-how but also about engaging with partners on the challenges we all face, from climate change to limited financing options,” he said.
Strong turnout
This year’s conference drew more than 650 delegates, 80 speakers and over 40 exhibitors from about 20 countries. Thematic sessions led by Pacific leaders were fully booked, reflecting growing interest from consultancies, construction companies and lenders in regional projects.
Highlights included the Asian Development Bank sending one of its largest delegations to a Pacific economic event, with around 25 representatives joining roundtable discussions and bilateral meetings. Pacific leaders, including Sao, also presented their infrastructure priorities in thematic sessions that attracted wide attention.
The private sector played a prominent role, with chambers of commerce and business representatives actively participating and helping shape infrastructure priorities.
Showcasing New Caledonia
For New Caledonia, the conference provided a high-profile platform. Sao delivered a presentation outlining the territory’s reconstruction plan and highlighted projects on climate change adaptation, decarbonisation and innovation. He also introduced the New Caledonia Construction Standard (RCNC) and discussed the recent certification of Sland, a material derived from recycled slag.
“Slag was at the heart of certain debates since it could be of particular interest to the Pacific islands affected by erosion,” Sao said.
Another highlight was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Pacific Islands and Australia Business Council (APIBC) and New Caledonia Trade and Invest, aimed at strengthening regional economic ties.
The delegation also included representatives from the private sector, such as Bleuscope, SLN, Secal, Tokuyama and Arbe, who explored opportunities through bilateral exchanges with regional partners.
“The Pacific Infrastructure Conference is more than just a forum — it is a place where projects take shape, partnerships are forged and the future of Pacific infrastructure is discussed,” Sao said.
