Contemporary PNG Studies: DWU Research Journal Vol. 10 May 2009 81 The Ups and Downs of Cooperative Societies in Papua New Guinea Wilson Thompson Orlegge Abstract This article explores concerns of an officer with the Highlands Farmers and Settlers Association Incorporated in Papua New Guinea in regard to inadequate government input to commercial production and marketing of agricultural products. The paper presents a history of the success of cooperative societies in colonial times, the repeal of the Co-operatives Act at the time of self government because it was seen to be ‘too colonial’, the collapse alternative initiatives over the next two decades, leading to the re-introduction and the establishment of a Co-operative Societies Unit within the Department of Commerce and Industry in 2003. Key words: rural development, co-operative societies, agriculture, resource mobilisation, national economic development, recovery strategy Introduction This article is based on my observation on and analyses of inadequate focused input by the government in revitalizing and promoting rural development and economic growth. This article aims to stimulate debate and discussion for stakeholders in agricultural developments to review and discuss how best the vast land and labour resources of Papua New Guinea (PNG) can be utilised through the principles of a co-operative society movement. The government has launched an ambitious Green Revolution Policy and a Co- operative Societies Movement backed with K13 million funding and a K100 million National Agriculture Development Plan to develop the rural areas by empowering them in what they do best – agriculture. Despite that, the issue of business management and how enterprises can survive and be viable remains a dilemma. Experience has indicated that despite having managers and accountants, national agricultural businesses have largely floundered. The purpose of this article is to give an historical background and explain how the business concept of co-operatives can be nurtured and developed. Co-operative societies A co-operative society is an autonomous, united and voluntary association of persons, usually with limited resources, that come together to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations. The concept of co-operatives is best applicable to the rural populace, which is generally poor and has few resources to get into economic activities. The association is based