Protecting the future of coconut

NBC reports on KIK’s planned coconut genebank in Milne Bay and efforts to safeguard planting material against disease threats.

Agriculture connects rural livelihoods, food supply and export earnings. Coffee, cocoa, coconuts, oil palm and spices give PNG a diverse agricultural base. The industry includes household gardens, smallholder cash crops, plantations, producer groups, exporters and domestic food businesses. Its importance extends beyond export receipts: productivity and reliable market access influence incomes across rural communities.

Coffee and cocoa move through harvesting, processing, grading and export. Coconut supports copra, oil and higher-value product development, while vanilla depends on careful curing and quality control. Fresh food supply chains serve local markets and towns. Each product needs a different approach to handling, storage and buyer requirements.

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PNG Direct editorial summary · researched 24 October 2026. Original reporting remains with the credited publisher.