Poultry Industry optimistic of Growth
Poultry Industry optimistic of Growth
Source: Post-Courier | Date: 10 January 2022 | Article by: Patrick Tom
Farmers in the poultry industry are optimistic to see growth in the year 2022 and beyond. According to the chief executive officer of Zenag Chicken Stanley Leahy, in response to queries said, we are always optimistic.
Mr Leahy said they are continuing to expand their operations to meet customer expectations.“While access to foreign currency remains an impediment to investment, there are a number of capital projects that we expect to complete this year.“We are proud that our agricultural investments create development opportunities for PNGSME’s and rural communities,” he said.“We expect our production to increase.
“Despite the challenges created by COVID lockdowns, theft, ship and air freight capacity constraints and the appalling condition of the Bulolo Highway, we grew our operations and continued to serve customers throughout PNG. A testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and management,” Mr Leahy said. They faced many challenges in 2021. The March looting was a particularly disheartening challenge. They are grateful for the police response to restore law and order and hope for better community leadership in 2022.
“The terrible state of the Bulolo Highway is an ongoing challenge for all commuters reliant on this crucial economic artery. Poor transport infrastructure is a painful thorn in the side of rural development. We sincerely hope there are no further delays to the Australian funded highway repairs that were supposed to commence last year,” he said.“I believe the industry is cautiously optimistic.
Some concerns have been raised about sightings of illegal imports, but NAQIA has been proactive in their response and resolute in its commitment to protecting PNG’s bio-security. 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 PNG households is engaged in some form of poultry business.