The Ministry of Commerce (MoC) is developing a comprehensive policy on Cambodian pepper, Va Rutsan, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, said on Tuesday.
He made the statement while speaking at a workshop organised by the MoC in Tboung Khmum province. The workshop was held in cooperation with the provincial administration.
Senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) along with representatives of the Cambodia Pepper Growers Association and pepper processing companies attended the workshop.
“Cambodia is working on its pepper policy, which aims to boost the export of Cambodian pepper across the global markets. We are gathering maximum inputs to make the policy comprehensive.
“The policy’s first priority will be to increase the income levels of pepper growers across the provinces and we also aim to promote exports substantially.”
Last year, the Kingdom experienced a significant drop in pepper production, with almost 65 percent decrease in the harvest compared to 2023, according to MAFF data.
The Kampot pepper harvest in 2024 totalled only 30-40 tonnes, compared to 120-130 tonnes in 2023, the data revealed, pointing out that the decline was caused by extreme heat.
Kampot pepper is renowned for its unique flavour profile and is one of only two peppers worldwide with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, signifying its quality and origin.
