The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Papua New Guinea and the Embassy of the People's Republic of China have reaffirmed the importance of agriculture as a cornerstone of Papua New Guinea's economic and social development following high-level discussions in Port Moresby.
FAO PNG Head of Office, Kachen Wongsathapornchai, met with His Excellency Yang Xiaoguang, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to Papua New Guinea, during a courtesy call focused on opportunities to advance agricultural transformation and strengthen cooperation in the sector.
The meeting highlighted agriculture's critical role in Papua New Guinea's development, with the sector supporting the livelihoods of an estimated 85 per cent of the population. Agriculture remains one of the country's largest sources of employment and income, particularly in rural communities, contributing approximately 30 per cent of GDP and accounting for around 60 per cent of total employment.
As Papua New Guinea pursues the objectives outlined in the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV), participants emphasised that transforming agrifood systems will be essential to improving food security, creating employment opportunities, reducing reliance on imports, increasing export capacity, and strengthening resilience to climate and economic shocks.
Discussions also explored the potential for deeper collaboration between FAO and the Chinese Embassy, building on the longstanding relationship between Papua New Guinea and China. China's experience in agricultural modernisation, rural development, agricultural science and technology, and innovation was recognised as offering valuable lessons and partnership opportunities for PNG.
Potential areas for cooperation include agricultural technology transfer, climate-smart agriculture, value chain development, fisheries, livestock production, digital agriculture, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at supporting sustainable growth across the sector.
Both parties acknowledged that investments in agriculture ultimately represent investments in people, particularly farmers, fishers, women, youth, and rural communities who form the backbone of Papua New Guinea's economy.
FAO PNG said it looks forward to advancing discussions and working with partners to translate ideas into practical initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for communities across the country.
The meeting reflects growing recognition of agriculture's strategic importance in driving inclusive economic growth and supporting Papua New Guinea's long-term development aspirations.
