Efforts to prepare for operating the redeveloped Lae Main Market are progressing, supported by insights gained during a recent technical exchange in Kokopo.
Representatives from Lae City Authority (LCA) and the Australian High Commission visited Kokopo Market to learn from the East New Britain Provincial Market Authority’s (ENBPMA) approach to effective market operations.
As Papua New Guinea’s first ‘model healthy marketplace’, Kokopo Market provided valuable lessons that will inform operational planning for the redeveloped Lae Main Market. The visit reflected the PNG–Australia Partnership’s commitment to locally led and community-focused development.
Discussions focused on good management practices, strong governance systems and community-centred operations. This work will ensure the redeveloped Lae Main Market is well-managed, safe, accessible and climate-resilient when it opens.
During the exchange, partners also observed Kokopo Market’s governance processes, vendor engagement mechanisms and food safety systems, highlighting opportunities for PNG market authorities to learn from one another and strengthen operations nationwide.
LCA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Robin Calistus, said ENBPMA’s approach provided key insights for Lae’s redevelopment planning.
“Kokopo Market has an Environmental Health Officer and Nutritionist ensuring the food sold is safe for consumption. We saw how this approach builds trust and improves customer experience. These insights will guide us as we create a market that meets our community’s needs,” he said.
The redeveloped Lae Main Market is a partnership initiative between the Lae City Authority, the Australian Government and the New Zealand Government.
Once complete, it will accommodate more than 1,300 vendors, expanding opportunities for farmers, traders and small businesses across Morobe Province.
Construction is also delivering strong local benefits, with more than 90 per cent of the approximately 200 personnel working on the project drawn from the local community.
Gender equality, disability inclusion and safety considerations are integrated throughout the design to ensure the market is safe, inclusive and accessible for all users.
Ends.
Lae City Authority and East New Britain Provincial Market Authority staff during their market management exchange.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100