Cambodian Farmers and Rice Industry Seek Solutions Amidst Challenges
Lack of technical assistance, market instability, and irrigation issues pose obstacles for Cambodian farmers and rice industry stakeholders
A workshop organized by national institutions and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on March 12 marked the initiation of the formulation process for the Milled Rice Market Expansion and Diversification Strategy (2024-2030) in Cambodia. The event brought together farmers, rice millers, traders, producers, development partners, and research institutes to address pressing challenges facing the rice industry.
Farmers from various communities across Cambodia highlighted key issues, including limited technical knowledge on modern farming techniques, exploitation by brokers offering unfair prices, and inadequate irrigation systems. Lay Sokhom, deputy president of the Pra Sre community in Prey Veng province, emphasized the challenges faced by farmers, such as the lack of support from local authorities and an unpredictable market, where prices fluctuate drastically based on stock availability.
Yous Sophorn, president of Samaki Chek Meas community in Svay Rieng province, echoed similar sentiments, expressing concerns over the absence of guidance on modern agricultural practices and the failure of authorities to provide necessary training and resources. Both farmers emphasized the need for improved technical assistance and market stability to enhance rice production and ensure fair returns for farmers.
In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and the Ministry of Commerce (MoC), in collaboration with FAO, organized the workshop to explore strategies for boosting milled rice exports and addressing market challenges. Agriculture researcher Yorn Sovann suggested adopting international standards and facilitating free testing of agricultural products to ensure quality and compliance with market requirements.
Chin Yen, vice president of a rice export company, highlighted the high costs of documentation services and electricity, along with irrigation system deficiencies, as major obstacles for exporters and farmers. He emphasized the importance of integrating irrigation systems and reducing production costs to improve farmers' livelihoods and enhance market competitiveness.
Rebekah Bell, FAO representative in Cambodia, emphasized the significance of a well-formulated milled rice strategy to meet global market demands and enhance Cambodia's position as a major rice exporter. She underscored the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and value chain development to achieve long-term growth and poverty alleviation.
Farmers from various communities across Cambodia highlighted key issues, including limited technical knowledge on modern farming techniques, exploitation by brokers offering unfair prices, and inadequate irrigation systems. Lay Sokhom, deputy president of the Pra Sre community in Prey Veng province, emphasized the challenges faced by farmers, such as the lack of support from local authorities and an unpredictable market, where prices fluctuate drastically based on stock availability.
Yous Sophorn, president of Samaki Chek Meas community in Svay Rieng province, echoed similar sentiments, expressing concerns over the absence of guidance on modern agricultural practices and the failure of authorities to provide necessary training and resources. Both farmers emphasized the need for improved technical assistance and market stability to enhance rice production and ensure fair returns for farmers.
In response to these concerns, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and the Ministry of Commerce (MoC), in collaboration with FAO, organized the workshop to explore strategies for boosting milled rice exports and addressing market challenges. Agriculture researcher Yorn Sovann suggested adopting international standards and facilitating free testing of agricultural products to ensure quality and compliance with market requirements.
Chin Yen, vice president of a rice export company, highlighted the high costs of documentation services and electricity, along with irrigation system deficiencies, as major obstacles for exporters and farmers. He emphasized the importance of integrating irrigation systems and reducing production costs to improve farmers' livelihoods and enhance market competitiveness.
Rebekah Bell, FAO representative in Cambodia, emphasized the significance of a well-formulated milled rice strategy to meet global market demands and enhance Cambodia's position as a major rice exporter. She underscored the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and value chain development to achieve long-term growth and poverty alleviation.
Translation:
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Translated by AI
