Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea's Coffee Industry

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a niche origin in the global coffee trade, exporting nearly all its coffee as green beans. Annual exports average 960,000 bags, with Arabica accounting for over 95% of output and Robusta limited to small volumes from East Sepik. Coffee is the countries second largest agricultural export, with nearly 30% of the country’s total population relying on this industry for their livelihood.

Production is overwhelmingly smallholder-based. Around 85% of coffee is grown by village farmers on plots ranging from a few dozen trees to one acre. Cooperatives and block farming models are common, though many operate informally. Estate production has declined to under 5% of national output.

Climate change is a growing threat. Rising minimum temperatures are increasing leaf rust pressure and reducing altitude suitability for Arabica. Erratic rainfall and longer dry spells are disrupting flowering and harvest cycles. National efforts are underway to develop climate-smart coffee policies and carbon farming models, with support from some international agencies.

Political challenges include weak infrastructure, limited extension services, and election-related disruptions. Coffee exports often decline during election years due to absenteeism and conflict in the Highlands, where most coffee is grown. Governance issues have historically undermined some projects, though recent reforms are improving transparency.

For UK and EU Buyers

Shipping to the UK by sea typically takes 42-56 days, depending on the port of origin (e.g. Lae or Port Moresby) and carrier schedules.

For UK and EU buyers, PNG offers access to distinctive Arabicas with organic and traceable credentials. However, sourcing requires attention to logistics, climate resilience, and cooperative capacity. PNG’s coffee sector is well-suited to specialty markets but demands long-term engagement and supply chain support.