Impact of GST zero-rating policy and increased minimum wage rate on food security

The document discusses the impact of PNG's GST zero-rating and minimum wage policies on food security using simulation data from household surveys. Context and Motivation for Food Security Policies PNG faces food insecurity despite high agricultural employment, prompting analysis of policy impacts using recent household data. FSS-PNG Tool and Data Sources An interactive Excel tool uses survey data from 2,699 households across PNG to simulate policy effects on diet and food security. Simulation Scenarios and Focus Three scenarios are modeled; this presentation emphasizes the combined effect of GST exemption and minimum wage increase. Results of Policy Impact on Poverty and Hunger Approximately 20% of households are projected to rise above poverty and hunger thresholds under combined policies. Regional Food Poverty and Undernourishment Outcomes Highlands see a 16.7% reduction in food poverty; lowlands 21.5%, with significant decreases in undernourished households in both regions.