Envoy: Agriculture, fisheries, forestry has export potential

HEAD of delegation and EU ambassador to PNG Ioannis Giogkarakis-Argyroplous says agriculture, fisheries and forestry can offer the country more export potential.
He said many countries were now using trade to develop and PNG could do so too.
“These are three key renewable sectors that can offer PNG more. Perhaps not through the form of special agriculture and business leases but with the landowners fully involved as co-beneficiaries,” Argyroplous said.
“There is no doubt that there is a global demand for sustainable green products from forestry, fisheries and agriculture – which is set to steeply increase.”
He said global growth was expected to be generated by emerging economies particularly in Asia.
Argyroplous was speaking during the launching of the national trade policy (2017-2032) last week.
“The European Union acknowledges the efforts and advancements for PNG promoting the whole government approach to address the issue,” he said.
“Based on these experiences, the European Union encourages PNG to play a more prominent role and support other countries to fight against illegal fishing in the Pacific.”
He said the EU was assisting and strengthening the capacity of the Department of Trade, Commerce and Industry “through inclusive progress where we involve all stakeholders, private sector and civil society who are beneficiaries of the policies”.