A previous public ban on betel nut was introduced in PNG's capital in 2013 and then eventually lifted in 2017. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
The governor of Papua New Guinea's National Capital District has warned he may re-introduce a ban on the public sale and consumption of betel nut.
Powes Parkop has told local media that betel nut vendors and chewers have been warned to clean up their act by the end of February or face another ban.
A previous public ban on betel nut was introduced in the capital in 2013 and then eventually lifted in 2017.
In that time, streets and pavements of Port Moresby became significantly cleaner without the widespread red betel nut spittle marks.
But since the restrictions on the sale of PNG's favourite stimulant were eased, the levels of betel nut litter and spit marks have surged again.
Governor Parkop was determined for Moresby to be looking its best before it hosts the APEC leaders summit in November.