MINISTER for Oil Palm, Hon. Francis Galia Maneke, has called on the board of the Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC) to intensify efforts in building stronger relationships with both milling companies and smallholder farmers.
Addressing the OPIC board meeting in Port Moresby today, Minister Maneke emphasized that collaboration between key stakeholders is critical to boosting productivity and ensuring long-term sustainability in Papua New Guinea’s oil palm sector.
He said forging robust partnerships is vital to overcoming persistent challenges faced by smallholder farmers, particularly in accessing markets and securing fair prices for their produce.
“By strengthening ties with milling companies, OPIC can better support farmers with the resources and assistance they need to succeed,” Maneke said.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing a more inclusive and integrated oil palm industry—one that empowers smallholders alongside major producers.
He said, improved communication and cooperation across the industry would drive growth, enhance profitability, and significantly contribute to the economic development of rural communities across the country.