Siem Reap: Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries H.E. Dith Tina presided over a forum titled “Sustaining Food Systems, Securing Futures: Bridging Nations Transforming Nutrition,” underscoring the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC)’s dedication to advancing agriculture development.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the event took place in Siem Reap provincial city, organized in collaboration with the Council for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD) and Germany’s GIZ. The forum saw participation from development partners, representatives of foreign embassies, and other relevant parties.
During his address, Minister Dith Tina highlighted the pivotal role of agriculture in Cambodia’s economic progress, with the country not only fulfilling domestic food demand but also exporting agricultural products globally. This achievement, he noted, results from the expansion of arable land, improved irrigation, infrastructure advancements, and the adoption of modern technologies, including the development of improved plant varieties.
He further stressed the government’s ongoing initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture. The Cambodian government remains committed to enhancing agriculture and rural development to ensure food security and safety, aiming for an efficient and resilient agricultural system. The focus also includes actions to ensure environmental sustainability and preparedness for climate change.
The minister expressed appreciation for CARD and GIZ’s collaboration in organizing the forum, which facilitated dialogue and knowledge exchange on vital issues such as agriculture, nutrition, and climate change. He encouraged GIZ and other development partners to continue supporting initiatives for developing countries by promoting smart technologies, providing development investments, enhancing market access, and facilitating trade.
The RGC has introduced a strategic policy to transform agriculture from household farming to commercial farming, aiming to increase farmers’ income through value-added products. To support this, 250 agricultural officials have been deployed, with plans to increase this number to over 1,300 by 2025.
In 2024, Cambodia exported 11.66 million tonnes of agricultural products, generating US$4,792 million. The main exports included rice, bananas, mangoes, cassava, cashew nuts, corn, pepper, and tobacco.