Lae, Monday, April 7, 2025 – Agriculture Minister Hon. John Boito today officially welcomed national leaders, industry stakeholders, and development partners to the inaugural National Agriculture Industry Public-Private Sector Partnership Conference in Lae, calling it a transformative milestone in Papua New Guinea’s agricultural journey.
In his opening remarks, Minister Boito said the conference marks a new era of collaboration between government, commodity boards, the private sector, and rural communities.
“Agriculture in Papua New Guinea is more than just an economic activity—it is the lifeblood of our communities and the foundation of our heritage,” said Minister Boito. “Through vibrant partnerships, climate-smart practices, and advanced technologies, we aspire to empower our farmers, boost productivity, and address challenges like food security and sustainability.”
The Minister highlighted the impressive performance of key commodities such as palm oil, coffee, and cocoa, which continue to show resilience despite challenges in infrastructure, market access, and climate change.
He emphasised that the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, is implementing clear development strategies through the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) and the National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024–2033 (NASP). These strategies aim to position agriculture as the cornerstone of national development, focusing on inclusive rural growth, climate adaptation, food security, and economic diversification.
“By 2033, we aim to establish agriculture as the backbone of a diversified, self-reliant, and globally competitive economy,” Minister Boito stated.
He called on the private sector to actively engage in the agriculture value chain by investing in infrastructure, technology, and innovation. He cited successful initiatives such as pest-resistant cocoa programmes and co-investment projects in the coffee industry as examples of how collaborative efforts can transform the sector.
“These partnerships are the key to empowering our farmers, building resilient systems, and creating opportunities that uplift lives and strengthen communities.”
Concluding his remarks, Minister Boito thanked all stakeholders for their commitment and optimism, urging them to work together towards a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive agricultural sector.
“Together, we can build a future where agriculture drives growth, resilience, and prosperity for all Papua New Guineans,” he said.
The conference brings together government leaders, industry players, and development partners to forge stronger public-private sector collaboration aimed at realising Papua New Guinea’s agriculture vision.
ENDS