Assessing buyers' requirements for fresh produce in the formal market sector in Papua New Guinea

A market survey was conducted in five main city centres in Papua New Guinea to better understand buyers' requirements for fresh produce of major buyers in the formal market (wholesalers, the food services sector and supermarkets). The objectives of the survey were to provide farmers with this market information and to identify marketing opportunities which suit their circumstances. The establishment of quality standards for key vegetables appears to be a reasonable starting point for improving communication on, and meeting, quality requirements from the formal market. Locally appropriate quality standards will help provide incentives to farmers to produce quality products and guidelines to improve postharvest handling.