Roading issues eating away half the value of coffee

ABOUT half the value of coffee is lost in Western Highlands because of poor transport systems, says Nebilyer Coffee Limited managing director James Leahy.
There is therefore an urgent need for an effective road network to be developed to encourage farmers to produce more, he said.
“Priority for the Western Highlands will always start with the need for better roads and infrastructure support of established factories,” he said.
“This brings the marketplace to the villagers’ doorstep where better prices can be given.
“Many farmers lose up to between 40 per cent and 60 per cent of their coffee value due to transport costs alone.
“Without roads the majority of farmers will suffer as coffee will rot in more remote areas or simply won’t be picked as it is not viable to do so.”
Leahy sees a potential for Papua New Guinea coffee to find a niche in the international market.
“The PNG government needs to focus on marketing,” he said.
“PNG produces some of the best coffees in the world, yet we are generally known as an average coffee that is only good for blending, with a highly inconsistent supply structure. We should be seen internationally as standalone speciality coffees from many different provinces and being sold to high-end roasters internationally.
“Even the general Y-grades, if properly produced and processed, becomes a fantastic coffee.
“Educate and support the farmers to achieve this in their farming practices and provide them the tools and incentives to do so.”