Toyota Tsusho (PNG) Limited joins PNG Chiefs as its official automotive partner

The PNG Chiefs confirmed Toyota Tsusho (PNG) Limited, trading as Ela Motors, as its Major Partner and official automotive partner.

This partnership will play an important role in supporting the club’s operations and increasing national mobility as it prepares for its official entry into the NRL competition in  2028.

The long-term agreement will see the Toyota logo featured on the shoulders of the PNG Chiefs jersey from 2028 as part of an exclusive partnership across the automotive category.

As a major partner, Toyota Tsusho PNG (t/a Ela Motors) will have a strong presence across the PNG Chiefs brand, with stadium signage, media backdrop branding, digital integration, and hospitality offerings alongside match-day activation opportunities. The partnership will also deliver a significant value-in-kind contribution to support the club.

PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said the partnership reflected the operational importance of reliable mobility to the PNG Chiefs as it establishes a professional sporting organization capable of operating across Papua New Guinea and the NRL.

“This partnership is a terrific example of what we mean when we talk about our partners helping us build the club, not just putting a logo on a shirt,” she said.

“The PNG Chiefs are going to move a lot of people, so having the right automotive partner is a critical decision for our operations. 

“The vehicles and support provided by Toyota Tsusho PNG will have a direct impact on how efficiently we operate as a club and how safely and effectively we move all the people connected to us.

“We’re delighted to partner with one of the most recognized brands in the world, combined with a business that has such a strong understanding of Papua New Guinea  and its customers as we continue to build a strong club – both on and off the field.”

Toyota Tsusho (PNG) Limited t/a Ela Motors PNG CEO Masaru Maximi said: “It is an absolute honor for us to join the PNG Chiefs as a major partner in the automotive sector.

“Our global mission is 'Passing on a better Earth to the children of the future’. Guided by this overarching principle, our corporate mission focuses on producing happiness for future society.

“As a mobility service provider, this major partnership with the PNG Chiefs allows us to share the joy and excitement of movement with the people and communities of Papua  New Guinea, while making a meaningful contribution to society.

“We are proud to support a team that embodies excellence, unity, and national pride,  and we look forward to building a strong and lasting relationship with the PNG Chiefs  and their supporters throughout the country." 

The PNG Chiefs have so far secured five major sponsorships, including BSP, Coca-Cola Europacific PNG, Taylor Pacific, SP Brewery, and Toyota Tsusho (PNG) Ltd, with more potential sponsors coming on board.