LDC Unveils Ambitious Plan to Revitalise PNG’s Livestock Industry

Port Moresby, 6 March 2025 – The Livestock Development Corporation (LDC) has outlined a comprehensive plan to revive Papua New Guinea’s livestock industry, aiming to reduce the country’s dependence on imported meat and position PNG as a self-sufficient producer of livestock products.

 

Speaking at a high-level agriculture meeting in Port Moresby on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, officiated by Prime Minster Hon. James Marape, LDC Managing Director Terry Koim presented the corporation’s 2025 key performance indicators, showcasing the progress made under Prime Minister Hon. James Marape’s directive to rehabilitate cattle ranches, restock livestock, and reclaim rundown abattoirs.

 

The meeting, attended by key stakeholders in the agriculture sector, provided an opportunity for the government and private sector representatives to discuss the future of livestock farming in PNG and the measures needed to ensure sustainable growth.

LDC Managing Director Terry Koim making his presentation at the meeting

 

Revitalising PNG’s Livestock Sector

 

Mr Koim outlined LDC’s journey from near collapse to a revitalised organisation playing a crucial role in the government’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV) 2023-2027, which prioritises domestic food production and economic self-reliance.

 

“LDC was once regarded as a defunct entity, but through strategic interventions since 2020, we have reclaimed key state-owned assets, invested in infrastructure, and implemented initiatives that support smallholder farmers,” said Mr Koim.

 

He emphasised that the government’s 2020 directive was a turning point for LDC, focusing on reclamation, rehabilitation, and restocking to increase local meat production and reduce PNG’s reliance on expensive meat imports.

 

Key achievements under the revitalisation programme include:

 

·       Rehabilitation of five cattle ranches, two abattoirs, and two livestock stations

·       Restocking of 1,706 cattle, seven buffalos, and 14 goats

·       Expansion of honeybee farming, with 64 three-storey beehives distributed to local farmers

·       Significant investment in modern equipment, infrastructure, and logistics

 

“The ultimate goal is to make PNG self-sufficient in meat production by 2025 and beyond, ensuring that our people have access to affordable, locally produced meat,” he added.

 

Empowering Smallholder Farmers: The Sialum Cattle Buying Point

 

A key milestone in LDC’s efforts is the establishment of the Sialum Cattle Buying Point in Tewai-Siassi District, Morobe Province—a game-changing initiative that provides much-needed market access to smallholder cattle farmers.

 

“For 50 years, Sialum cattle farmers struggled to find a reliable market for their livestock. Our government’s intervention has now created a structured supply chain that connects them directly to processing facilities,” Mr Koim stated.

 

Through this initiative, LDC has ensured that Sialum cattle farmers can transport and sell their livestock efficiently, with logistics in place to move cattle to Erap Ranch in the Markham Valley and other key locations.

 

To further support farmers, LDC signed an MOU with the Tewai-Siassi Cattle Farmers Cooperative, providing them with:

 

·       K100,000 in financial assistance

·       A utility vehicle to support operations

 

“This intervention is a testament to our commitment to empowering rural farmers and creating economic opportunities in the livestock sector,” he added.

 

Reclaiming and Restoring State-Owned Livestock Facilities

 

One of the major setbacks in PNG’s livestock industry has been the deterioration and misuse of state-owned ranches, abattoirs, and livestock stations. However, under the Marape Government’s reforms, LDC has successfully reclaimed and rehabilitated several key facilities, including:

 

·       Baiyer Cattle Ranch (Western Highlands Province)

·       Wariman Livestock Station (East Sepik Province)

·       Tiaba Abattoir (Central Province), which has undergone rehabilitation and perimeter fencing

·       Kornfarm Abattoir (Western Highlands), where eviction of illegal residents is in progress

 

“These properties, once neglected, are now being transformed into fully operational facilities that will support the growth of PNG’s livestock industry,” Mr Koim stated.

 

Restoring these facilities will ensure greater meat production, job creation, and stronger economic activity in rural areas.

 

Investing in Infrastructure and Equipment

 

To sustain the momentum of its reforms, LDC has made major investments in transport, infrastructure, and equipment, including:

 

·       16 new vehicles for operations nationwide

·       Two additional excavators and one grader for land development

·       Komatsu 210 Excavator for ranch and abattoir construction

·       Solar-powered bore water systems to provide sustainable water supply

·       50Kva diesel generators to ensure uninterrupted power for abattoirs and cattle stations

 

“Having the right infrastructure in place is essential for the long-term growth of the livestock industry, and we are committed to equipping our facilities with the necessary resources,” Mr Koim explained.

 

Overcoming Challenges and Moving Forward

 

Despite significant progress, Mr Koim acknowledged that several challenges remain, including:

 

·       Limited government funding and support for large-scale expansion

·       Inadequate data collection on livestock populations and market trends

·       Logistical difficulties in transporting cattle across PNG’s rugged terrain

 

However, he remained optimistic, pointing out that the livestock industry has enormous potential due to:

 

·       Rising domestic demand for meat products

·       PNG’s vast land resources, which provide ample space for cattle grazing

·       Favourable environmental conditions, with no major livestock diseases threatening production

 

“The livestock sector is a sleeping giant in PNG’s economy. With continued investment, partnerships, and policy support, we can build a sustainable and thriving industry,” Mr Koim stated.

 

Prime Minister Marape Reaffirms Government Support

 

Prime Minister Marape commended LDC’s efforts and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture and livestock sectors.

 

“The work done by LDC is proof that we can revive PNG’s livestock industry. My government will continue to support these initiatives to ensure food security, job creation, and economic growth,” PM Marape said.

 

He reiterated that agriculture and livestock development remain top priorities under his administration, with policies aimed at:

 

·       Boosting local production

·       Reducing imports

·       Empowering rural communities

 

“Our goal is clear: We want Papua New Guinea to be self-sufficient in food production. The work of LDC is critical in achieving this, and I urge all stakeholders to support this national agenda,” the Prime Minister said.

 

A Bright Future for PNG’s Livestock Industry

 

As LDC continues its push to rebuild and expand the livestock sector, there is growing optimism that PNG can become a major player in the Pacific’s meat production industry.

 

With strategic investments, international partnerships, and strong government backing, PNG’s livestock industry is on track to becoming a key contributor to the nation’s food security, employment, and economic diversification.

 

“This is just the beginning. We have a long way to go, but the foundations have been laid, and we are determined to make PNG’s livestock industry a success,” Mr Koim concluded.

 

ENDS