Erap Cattle Ranch, located near Markam in Lae, Morobe Province, is one of Papua New Guinea’s most significant livestock assets. Historically, it served as a major cattle breeding and beef production center, but like many state-owned cattle ranches, it fell into decline due to land encroachment and lack of maintenance. 

Today, the government and the Livestock Development Corporation (LDC) are spearheading efforts to restore Erap as part of the national livestock revitalization program.

The ranch spans thousands of hectares in the fertile Markham Valley, an area well-suited for grazing and pasture development. Rehabilitation work includes clearing invasive species, ploughing, and replanting improved pasture varieties to boost forage quality. 

Modern infrastructure upgrades had been been performed, including stockyards, water systems, and fencing to support sustainable cattle production. Erap is also linked to the Erap Abattoir Facility Development Project, which aims to establish a modern meat-processing plant to complement ranch operations and create structured supply chains for local cattle SME farmers.

Strategically, Erap will serve as a breeding and distribution hub for the Highlands and Momase regions, reducing reliance on imported beef and supporting food security. The project promises employment opportunities, community engagement, and economic growth, positioning Erap as a cornerstone of PNG’s livestock industry revival under the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (2023–2027)