A timber processing facility is being planned to be established in Lae, an idea currently discussed between the PNG Forest Authority (PNGFA) and the Australian Government, through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research. Source: Looping.com
PNGFA Acting Managing Director, Karo Karo Mau, told Loop PNG that the proposed idea is still being discussed.
The facility is currently developed in the absence of a downstream processing policy.
The acting MD says while the downstream policy is yet to be finalised, there is a clause in the current timber permit issued to logging and timber companies for local consumption.
PNG logs generate almost K1.4 billion in revenue for the country through exports.
Forestry Minister, Douglas Tomuriesa, said while this is a revenue earner for the country, they also aim to conserve PNG forests in a sustainable way.
