Post Courier (09/09/2025) - Papua New Guinea (PNG) is poised to revitalize its oil palm industry, with government officials outlining strategic plans to strengthen the sector and ensure its long-term sustainability. Minister for Oil Palm, FrancisManeke, announced these developments in a recent address.

Delivered yesterday at the UPNG Drill Hall, Minister Maneke, alongside key stakeholders, emphasized the industry’s crucial role in driving the nation’s economy and enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.

According to Minister Maneke, the oil palm industry has been a significant part of PNG’s agricultural landscape for over 50 years and is now receiving focused attention from the government.

He praised Prime Minister James Marape and his administration for positioning oil palm as a central element of the country’s economic agenda, describing it as “a commodity that will push PNG forward.”

The Minister also acknowledged the legacy of past leaders, notably the late Sir Michael Somare, for laying the foundational work of the industry. He highlighted the contributions of provinces such as West NewBritain, Morobe, and New Ireland, which have been key players in oil palm cultivation. Additionally, emerging areas like East and West Sepik and Western Province are now seen as promising regions for expansion.

Furthermore, Minister Maneke emphasized that PNG’s oil palm development is increasingly adopting environmentally friendly practices, including those championed by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil(RSPO).

“While developing the oil palm industry is vital for our economy, we must also prioritize environmental protection to secure the future for the generations of Papua New Guinea,” he stated.

Read more at https://www.postcourier.com.pg/png-to-revive-oil-palm-industry-with-ambitious-sustainability-plans/