BY PATRICK TOM

Farmers in the poultry industry are optimistic about growth in 2022 and beyond.

According to Zenag Chicken CEO Stanley Leahy, in response to questions said, we are still optimistic.

Mr. Leahy said they continue to expand their operations to meet customer expectations.

“Although access to foreign currencies remains a barrier to investment, there are a number of investment projects that we plan to complete this year.

“We are proud that our agricultural investments create development opportunities for PNG’s SMEs and rural communities,” he said.

“We expect our production to increase.

“Despite the challenges created by COVID lockdowns, theft, sea and air cargo capacity constraints and the appalling condition of the Bulolo Highway, we have grown our operations and continued to serve our customers throughout PNG. .

A testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and management, ”said Mr. Leahy.

They faced many challenges in 2021. The looting in March was a particularly daunting challenge.

They are grateful for the police response to restore law and order and look forward to better community leadership in 2022.

“The deplorable condition of the Bulolo motorway is a constant challenge for all commuters dependent on this crucial economic artery.

Poor transport infrastructure is a thorn in the side of rural development.

We sincerely hope that there will be no further delays in the road repairs funded by Australia which were to start last year, ”he said.

“I think the industry is cautiously optimistic. Some concerns have been raised about the sightings of illegal imports, but the NAQIA has been proactive in its response and resolute in its commitment to protect PNG’s biosecurity. We thank them for their support and look forward to working with the government to develop opportunities for PNG farmers.

Mr. Leahy added, “Poultry is one of the largest SME sectors in PNG.

NARI estimates that one in four households in PNG is engaged in some form of poultry activity.