Australia is supporting the construction of a new PCR testing facility at the PNG Biosecurity Authority’s National Veterinary Laboratory in Kila Kila, Port Moresby, to strengthen PNG’s ability to diagnose plant and animal diseases and boost agricultural exports.
The new Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) suite will allow PNGBA to identify pests and diseases faster and more accurately using advanced molecular testing technology, supporting surveillance, disease investigations and biosecurity responses across the country.
The facility will help monitor and respond to threats including African Swine Fever, Coffee Berry Borer, Fall Armyworm and Rhinoceros Coconut Beetle, which affect agriculture, food production and trade.
It will also support PNG’s key export industries – cocoa, coffee and coconut – by strengthening PNG’s ability to meet export requirements for markets like Australia.
For PNGBA Laboratory Manager Orlando Mercado, who joined the laboratory in 2000 as a newly qualified technician, the new suite marks a major step forward after more than 25 years in biosecurity.
“What has kept me dedicated to this work is knowing it helps protect Papua New Guinea,” Mercado said.
“Strong biosecurity supports our farmers, agricultural industries, food systems, trade and communities.
“Over his career, Mercado has built expertise in diagnostics, laboratory quality systems, food safety and disease surveillance through training and studies in Australia.
He said the PCR suite is more than just infrastructure – it will give specialists advanced tools to protect PNG’s agriculture and rural livelihoods. Australia’s support includes both the laboratory infrastructure and training opportunities for PNGBA staff to strengthen technical
