LAE, Morobe Province , April 9, 2025 – National Planning and Monitoring Secretary, Koney Samuel, delivered a powerful address at the National Agriculture Industry Public–Private Sector Partnership Conference in Lae today, urging bold reforms, stronger collaboration, and game-changing investments to transform Papua New Guinea’s economy—anchored by agriculture.
Speaking candidly to public and private sector stakeholders, Secretary Samuel stressed the need for a “hard reset” as PNG approaches its 50th anniversary of independence. He called on all players to critically reflect on the country’s progress and help chart a transformative path toward achieving Vision 2050 and beyond.
“Vision 2050 is our future. We want to build a smart, wise, fair and happy society. But how do we get there? That’s the question we all need to answer—together,” Samuel said.
With agriculture contributing an estimated 16 to 17percent to the nation’s GDP and employing a majority of Papua New Guineans, Secretary Samuel challenged the sector to step into a frontline role in driving economic development.
“The next decade is critical. If we are to change the status quo, agriculture must lead. We need high-impact investments that will transform the sector—and transform our country once and for all.”
Secretary Samuel addressing the conference today.-Picture by Department of Agriculture Media
He noted that Papua New Guinea remains among the lowest-ranked investment destinations globally, citing recent IMF data that placed PNG at the bottom of the foreign direct investment (FDI) scale.
“We’re not attracting serious FDI. No investor wants to come in. That’s a problem. Because the government alone cannot deliver a 200 billion kina economy—the private sector must lead that charge,” Samuel said.
He outlined major development targets, including:
Achieving upper middle-income status by 2030,
Creating one million new jobs,
Doubling government revenue,
Boosting exports while substituting costly imports—especially in agriculture and livestock.
Addressing current fiscal challenges, Samuel also acknowledged ongoing cash flow issues affecting many government programs, including agriculture projects.
“Many of you haven’t been paid. Some are angry at me. But this is the reality—we need to generate more income to support our development priorities.”
Secretary Samuel urged the private sector to step forward with clarity and courage.
“Tell us: what are the real constraints in agriculture? What can the government do better to create an enabling environment for you to invest and grow? This forum is the place to be honest, bold and practical.”
He praised the efforts of Agriculture Secretary Dr Sergie Bang and other partners for organising the conference and emphasised that such partnerships are vital for nation-building.
“We must seize this opportunity. This is the group that can make it happen. Let’s define our roles, align our strategies, and deliver for the next 50 years.”
The National Agriculture Industry Public–Private Sector Partnership Conference continues this week in Lae, focusing on collaboration, innovation, and investment strategies to unlock the potential of PNG’s agriculture sector.
