The PNG coffee industry welcomes the initiative taken by the government through the Asian Development Bank to upgrade the Highlands highway to international standard.
“To operate coffee business efficiently and effectively, a better road infrastructure network is the way forward,” Coffee Industry Corporation CEO, Charles Dambui said.
“We want to see road infrastructure improvement program to benefit the entire economic corridors via road networks. Such improved network can automatically remove obstacles to development and add positive economic and social benefits not only to farmers but the rural population whose economic lifeline depends on good road network system.”
Meanwhile, PNG Exporters Council representative John Edwards said: “From the exporters end, we are concerned at the moment because there are several sections of the highway that are risky or may present problems in the near future if the wet season continues.”
“It is the off-coffee season at the moment and not a lot of coffees are moving down the road, however, it will be critical once export movements pick up in April onwards.”
He further called on responsible authorities to improve from adhoc maintenance to regular upkeep of the highway so that coffee can be moved in an organised manner.