ABG supports food industry

THE Fresh Produce Development Agency and the Autonomous Government of Bougainville have signed an agreement to develop the fruit and vegetable industry in the region.
The memorandum was signed in Buka last and witnessed by international development partners, women’s groups, non-government organisations and others in Buka.
Under the agreement, the FPDA is to support the ABG’s initiatives on food security, income-generating opportunities and livelihood improvement programmes by providing training, extension, market support and farmer advisory services.
It is also expected to introduce new crops and technology. It will also assist farmers to focus on commercial farming in the food and horticulture sector funded by the Autonomous Government of Bougainville.
Minister for Department of Primary Industry and Marine Resources Nicholas Darku promised to work with the FPDA in ensuring that the expected outcomes of the agreement is achieved.
DPI secretary Thomas Betitis said Bougainville had a huge potential in the fresh produce and horticulture industry.
FPDA board chairman Fabian Chow said the company would commit its resources and experience to promote the industry in the region.
“I am confident that this MOA marks a new beginning for Bougainville in the food and horticulture sector.. We look forward to working very closely with the ABG to develop the food  industry.”