China Welcomes PNG Coffee as Marape Pushes for Agricultural Growth
Prime Minister James Marape has expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for granting Papua New Guinea access to its expansive agricultural market. This breakthrough, facilitated by the National Agriculture Quarantine and Inspection Authority (Naqia), is expected to unlock substantial economic benefits for PNG's farmers and producers.
“Our Government has worked diligently over the last five years to secure this agreement, and I sincerely thank the Chinese government for making this a reality,” Marape said. With its 1.4 billion population and a rapidly growing middle class, China has emerged as one of the largest coffee markets globally, with consumption rising at an impressive 15% annually, far surpassing the global average.
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| China Welcomes PNG Coffee as Marape Pushes for Agricultural Growth |
Marape highlighted the challenge of PNG's limited coffee production, which is insufficient to meet the enormous demand in China. “The Chinese market requires substantial coffee supplies every month, but unfortunately, our current production cannot meet this demand,” he said. “This untapped potential is a missed opportunity for generating foreign exchange in US dollars through exports to China. Our farmers must rise to the challenge and increase production to match the market needs.”
In addition to China, Marape emphasized the Government’s broader trade efforts, noting that work is underway to secure market access to India, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the United States. He described Asia, particularly China, as a vital region for PNG’s agricultural exports.
To further support agricultural producers, Marape revealed that the Government is considering establishing a National Export Agency. “This agency will streamline export processes and reduce barriers, ensuring our goods reach international markets quickly and efficiently,” he said. Marape also urged Papua New Guineans to utilize the country’s vast agricultural potential, citing coffee as just one example of the opportunities waiting to be explored.
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