Trukai Industries Limited, in partnership with key stakeholders including the PNG University of Technology, SunRice Group, and the PNG Government, celebrated the graduation of batches three and four of the Smart Farmer Program on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The event marks a major milestone in the country’s ambition to grow local rice production and transform agriculture into a key economic driver. Trukai CEO, Alan Preston, expressed his gratitude during the event. “It’s been a joy to be part of this journey.” “Each year the program grows, and we find new ways to enrich it, share intellectual property, and help people grow rice for both personal benefit and commercial purposes.” “So far, it’s been quite successful, but there’s more work to be done to secure a better future for PNG.” He also mentioned Trukai’s work in Papua New Guinea since pre-independence. “Trukai has been part of the fabric of PNG since 1973.” “We have been here for a long time and maybe be here for another 50, years even 100 years—because we are truly committed.” “Today is an example of that commitment, supported by wonderful partners from the PNG Government, our partner universities, the Government of Australia and SunRice Group.” Vice Chancellor of the PNG University of Technology, Professor Dr Ora Renagi, commended the partnership and emphasized the university’s role in national development. “The success of a university is measured by the success of its graduates. Seeing young men and women equipped with skills to participate in economic growth is satisfying.” “Our goal is to become a world-class institution and programs like these are key drivers of growth.” Smart Farmer graduate Cathy Wanpis from Eastern Highlands Province spoke highly of the program. “We’ve learnt so much and I believe it will help us become better farmers.” “I hope this program reaches more people, especially in rural areas.” Secretary for the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) Dr Sergi Bang, outlined how the program aligns with PNG’s Medium-Term Development Plan IV. Key targets include: Growing the agriculture sector’s GDP from PGK20 billion to PGK40 billion by 2033. Creating 2 million jobs in the sector. Fostering agriculture entrepreneurs to scale from small to medium and large businesses. Improving the Human Development Index and reducing malnutrition by 40%. “The government has set clear goals, and training programs like this help us get there. Trukai’s role is vital, and DAL stands ready to support this initiative through mechanisms like removing import duties on farming equipment,” the Secretary said. Mr. Brenton Kanowski, from the Australian High Commission, reinforced Australia’s continued support. “PNG is blessed with rich soil. Through strong partnerships we can help smallholder farmers improve skills and productivity.” The Smart Farmer Program continues to empower local farmers, particularly those in rural areas who make up 80% of PNG’s population. Rice is fast becoming a staple, and Trukai is leading the charge in building a sustainable, locally driven industry. A ground-breaking ceremony commemorating Trukai Industries' expansion of its commercial rice cultivation was held after the Smart Farmer Program Graduation. The foundation of Trukai's agricultural activities has long been the company's farm in Erap, Morobe Province. Trukai anticipates that it will expand its commercial rice growing from 100 hectares in 2024 to 200 hectares in 2025, with each expansion doubling annually. Customers throughout PNG are currently sharing and enjoying Trukai's Roots Rice product, which is made from its first harvest of locally farmed rice. By 2030, the company hopes to significantly contribute to the government's objective of a contemporary and profitable agriculture sector through its commercial rice growing.