In an ambitious endeavor aimed at transforming the economies of Morobe and Central regions, Thai investor McAndrew and Partners has embarked on a groundbreaking mission. With the recent signing of an agreement to develop a tapioca starch project, the company aims to generate over 30,000 employment opportunities, ushering in a wave of newfound prosperity for local communities. This visionary collaboration between McAndrew and Partners, the Public Private Partnership Centre, and the Morobe government promises to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of the region.
The Tapioca Starch Project: Powering Global Trade and Flourishing Enterprises
The tapioca starch project spearheaded by McAndrew and Partners holds immense potential not only for job creation but also for international trade. By harnessing the abundant resources available in Morobe and Central, the project aims to produce an impressive 600 tonnes of native tapioca starch, catering to demanding markets in Thailand, Australia, China, and the United States. With an unwavering commitment to sustainable agricultural practices, the project is poised to become a major supplier of tapioca starch, fostering economic growth and stability in the regions involved.
Covering an expansive 31,000 hectares of land owned by the Warawara Land Group Inc., the Morobe tapioca starch project is set to make a profound impact on the agricultural landscape. Company representative Chalee Wanchai expressed enthusiasm for this large-scale undertaking, which promises to revolutionize the region’s agriculture. Beyond economic growth, the project aims to foster collaboration between investors, landowners, and citizens, ensuring the equitable distribution of its benefits.
Governor Luther Wenge of Morobe, a staunch supporter of the project, emphasized the need to liberate land for large-scale agricultural crop production. The Markham Valley, Waghi Valley, and Sepik plains have been identified as suitable locations for mass crop farming, highlighting the project’s vast potential. Governor Wenge reaffirmed his commitment to supporting investors in their feasibility studies while extending assistance to Central in their pursuit of a similar transformative endeavor. His vision revolves around economic freedom, ensuring that opportunities are shared with the people, landowners, and citizens of the country.
Landowners in Markham have already demonstrated their support by allocating their land for the project, recognizing the transformative impact it can have on their communities. Governor Wenge emphasized that the provincial government is fully dedicated to supporting any economic development initiatives that generate substantial revenue for the district, province, and the nation as a whole. This comprehensive approach seeks to uplift the region while simultaneously fostering sustainable growth and prosperity.
Simultaneously, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Central Governor Rufina Peter and McAndrew and Partners marks a pivotal moment in Central’s journey towards economic progress. This MoU paves the way for a feasibility study to commence in Gabadi, positioning the region to benefit from the far-reaching effects of the tapioca starch project. Kairuku MP Peter Isoaimo commended Governor Rufina Peter’s leadership and foresight, acknowledging the immense potential this collaboration holds for the region.