The potato industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is estimated to generate K150 million per annum (€36 mln), with a downstream processing capacity of 10,000 tonnes a year. By increasing the processing capacity to 20,000 tonnes by 2023, the industry could generate more than K300 million annually. This expansion is expected to impact rural communities and create many opportunities.
According to the National Agriculture Sector Plan (2024-2033), potato is one of the commodities with an adequate supply for immediate commencement of downstream processing and value-adding. Potato production in PNG is estimated at 50,000 tons per annum, with over 90% traded in open markets and consumed as fresh vegetables. About 10% enters mining enclaves, institutions, and supermarkets.
Recently, Innovative Agro Industries established a downstream processing plant in Lalibu, SHP, with a capacity of 80 tonnes per week to produce frozen chips. The potato volume received met only 50% of the annual processing capacity for KUK chips. Volume issues for downstream processing can be addressed, and processing capacity can be scaled up given adequate field production volume.
The National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024-2033 supports MTDP IV 2024-2027 and the Marape-Rosso government's priority on agriculture commercialisation and downstream processing.
[ K1 = €0.24 ]
Source: postcourier.com.pg