Cambodia’s rice sector is undergoing a transformative shift, with smallholder farmers benefiting from sustainable farming practices and a direct connection to global markets. In partnership with Mars Food & Nutrition, IFC is training Cambodian farmers on climate-smart agriculture and sustainable rice cultivation. These efforts enable farmers to meet high international standards, such as the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP), and supply rice to Mars Food’s Ben’s Original™ brand, a well-known global product.

Farmers in Cambodia have embraced techniques like reducing rice burning and using laser leveling to improve water and fertilizer efficiency. These changes have opened up opportunities for selling rice to Battambang Rice Investment Co. (BRICo), which works closely with Mars Food. Through these partnerships, the project raises the quality of Cambodian rice, boosts farmer income, and contributes to global sustainability goals.

Mars Food & Nutrition’s commitment to sourcing high-quality, SRP-certified rice is creating opportunities for Cambodian farmers while also advancing the company’s sustainability targets. The collaboration continues to grow, offering additional training and focusing on income diversification, particularly for women farmers, helping drive positive changes throughout Cambodia’s rice industry.