Trukai says firm was not consulted over import quota review

TRUKAI Industries has not been consulted on a review regarding the proposed rice import quotas announced last week by Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Benny Allan.
Trukai chief executive officer Greg Worthington-Eyre said the company was not supporting the government policy on the proposed import quota on rice.
He told The National that Trukai was “operating normally” in terms of imports and would be willing to contribute to any industry consultation on the matter.
“I am not aware of any developments on this but from my understanding, the quota was forgone in lieu of potential levies but there has been no discussion since,” Worthington-Eyre said .
“I don’t know about the review of the Naime proposal but I think it is on list to do by the government.
“But for Trukai, its normal operation is ongoing and we are continuing to invest in rice development in PNG.
“We will be behind this year’s agricultural summit which I believe will be in July and also willing to support the government in the upcoming Apec in terms of the agricultural aspect. Again, this depends if they consult us.
“I know they are moving forwards with the establishment of the Agriculture Industry Council of which there will be representation from each of the agricultural subsectors such as oil palm, coffee, cocoa and the likes. I believe we will also be involved in that.”
“I think they are still going through the K600 million and how it will be spent on which projects and in which areas.
“Agriculture is such a high priority this year for them and I hope the benefits from this allocation are long-lasting and it looks positive and we will be willing to support the government on any issue except on quotas.”