LAE, March 3, 2024 – Agriculture Minister Hon. John Boito says Papua New Guinea (PNG) has reached a significant milestone in its agricultural sector. The country is now poised to export high-quality taro to international markets, a move set to enhance the national economy and open new opportunities for local farmers.
The announcement came during a ceremonial event at the National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) in Lae on Saturday, March 3, 2024, marking the official send-off of the inaugural shipment of 13 tonnes of premium Morobe taro. This first batch is destined for New Zealand, symbolising the potential of PNG’s agricultural products on the global stage. The event was attended by key figures including NARI Director-General Dr. Nelson Simbiken, NARI Chairman Nimo Kama, Managing-Director of Wantok Produce Dr. Pulotu McCarthy, along with farmers and stakeholders.
Minister Boito, in his first official role as Agriculture Minister, also unveiled the NARI Taro (NT) planting materials intended for commercial-scale production. The introduction of seven new taro cultivars – NT1 through NT7 – is expected to revolutionise the taro farming industry in PNG, offering the promise of increased yields and sustainability.
“I am pleased to announce that through the concerted efforts of NARI and its partners, Papua New Guinea is now capable of exporting high-quality taro to international markets, thereby boosting our economy and creating invaluable opportunities for our local farmers,” stated Minister Boito.
He emphasised the significance of this achievement and the importance of continued collaboration towards the growth and development of the agriculture sector for the nation’s betterment.
Minister Boito further highlighted that these initiatives align with the Marape Government’s policy objectives as outlined in the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV 2023-2027. The plan’s ambitious goals include doubling revenue, creating one million jobs, and expanding the economy to K200 billion by 2030, propelling PNG towards becoming a middle-income country. The focus on agriculture, including taro and other local crops, is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.
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