Agriculture & Fisheries

Agriculture is a central pillar of Papua New Guinea’s economy. In 2019 it made up 25% of GDP and contributed to the livelihood of 85% of the population. PNG’s commitment to place agriculture at centre stage and promote the socio-economic development of smallholder farmers bodes well for the future. Currently, the sector remains dependent on export revenues from key crops such as palm oil, cocoa and coffee, as well as fisheries, which makes it vulnerable to changes in commodity prices. The goal of reaching self-sufficiency in food production goes hand-in-hand with the need to develop self-reliant food systems and address the concerns posed by climate change. Although the global spread of Covid-19 has highlighted long-standing transport and logistical challenges, political determination and sustained support from development partners could potentially result in an era of rapid development for the sector. This chapter contains an interview with Alan Bird, Governor, East Sepik Province.