10-year transformation goal set for agriculture sector

**Agriculture set to boost PNG's economy. (Image: DAL)**

Prime Minister James Marape has set a 10-year transformation goal, calling for structured policy reforms, increased investment in agro-processing, and the establishment of export-driven supply chains.

“This is our opportunity to rewrite PNG’s economic story. By 2045, when PNG marks 70 years of independence, we must be a self-sufficient and food-exporting nation,” Maraea said.

Marape has directed agriculture, fisheries, and forestry ministries to integrate their efforts, ensuring that policies drive investment in primary production, processing facilities, and export markets.

Drawing inspiration from South Korea’s economic rise, Marape reminded Papua New Guineans that in 1953, South Korea was one of the poorest nations in the world, with a GDP per capita lower than PNG’s at the time. Today, South Korea is one of the top 15 global economies, thanks to a strong national work ethic, strategic planning, and investment in key industries.

“South Korea in 1953 was one of the poorest nations on earth,” he said.

“Today, they have a GDP per capita of over US$33, 000, while we are still struggling to fully utilise the wealth in our land.”

The Prime Minister called on all Papua New Guineans, particularly the younger generation, to embrace this transformation.

“Are we just going to sit in our government offices, talking about policies without implementing them? Or are we going to be the generation that transforms PNG into a food-exporting nation?” he said.

Marape urged agricultural leaders, policymakers, and businesses, to take immediate action to increase production and drive exports.

“This is not just an academic exercise. It is the future of our economy,” he said. “We have a clear strategy, we have the land, and we have the people. Now, we must execute the plan and get to work.”

The government will now accelerate agricultural investment, promote technology-driven farming, and establish strong export markets, ensuring that agriculture becomes the leading driver of PNG’s economy in the coming decade.