SYDNEY, Sept. 3 (Xinhua) -- Papua New Guinea's (PNG) Coffee Industry Corporation (CIC) has begun consultations for a 10-year strategic plan to help advance the industry and increase the representation and satisfaction of those involved at all levels of the supply chain.

Local media reported on Sunday that discussions had taken place in Goroka, outlining the issues facing the coffee industry and forming a desired vision over the next 10 years.

"There are many issues impacting on the industry like deteriorating road and market access infrastructures which require a partnership approach among commodity boards and sector organisations," CIC chief executive officer Charles Dambui said.

"We want to be realistic in our planning to focus on what we as an industry regulating agency can implement to take the industry forward in the next decade."

Particular focus was on growers, who Dambui described as the main stakeholders, facing dynamic as well as ongoing challenges.

"CIC acknowledges the changing farming practices in our integrated approaches where today's coffee farmers are also fresh produce and livestock farmers," Dambui said.

"We therefore anticipate this plan to become holistic in its approach where all stakeholders and sector organisations, can partner in this strategic plan as a way forward for the industry."

The 2019 - 2028 strategic plan will be developed by socio economist Dr Eric Omuru who has previously developed similar plans for the cocoa and coconut industries.

Further consultations will continue with stakeholders across the country.