The Minister for Transport and Coffee, Hon. Miki Kaoek, confirms that the National Coffee Authority (NCA) has restored full operations, effective Monday, 28 September 2026.
The restoration includes coffee inspections, export documentation, shipment clearance, regional services and support for coffee growers and other industry participants.
“I acknowledge the concerns raised by the Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Highlands Farmers and Settlers Association, exporters and other stakeholders about the disruption to coffee exports and its consequences for livelihoods, business costs and Papua New Guinea’s reputation as a reliable supplier,” the Minister said.
“Coffee supports thousands of families and businesses across our country. Delays affect growers, buyers, transport operators, warehouses, exporters and overseas customers. Restoring services and addressing outstanding work are immediate priorities.”
All coffee value chain participants, including exporters and freight forwarders, are requested to continue their operations and coordinate closely with NCA inspectors and export officers to facilitate inspections, documentation and clearance.
Priority will be given to outstanding coffee shipments, particularly those awaiting clearance in Lae, subject to applicable inspection and export requirements.
Exporters are encouraged to confirm documentation and clearance arrangements with NCA officers before dispatching consignments.
The Minister noted that Interim Acting Managing Director, Mr Charles Dambui, has issued instructions to staff and regional offices to restore services and attend promptly to outstanding tasks. These include services to growers and exporters, office and field operations, and outstanding staff and service-provider obligations, with financial actions subject to applicable procedures and lawful authority.
“The resumption of operations must be supported by coordinated action across the Authority.
Management and staff must work together to clear outstanding tasks and provide timely assistance to the industry,” the Minister said.
The Minister thanked coffee growers, exporters, freight forwarders, industry organisations, service providers and NCA staff for their patience and cooperation during the disruption.
“Our immediate focus is to keep coffee moving, protect livelihoods and maintain the confidence of our international buyers. I call on all stakeholders to work with the National Coffee Authority as normal services resume and outstanding shipments are cleared.”