During a visit to local food processing enterprises yesterday, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation Hem Vanndy emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards of quality, safety, hygiene, and innovation in the Cambodian food product sector, with the ultimate aim of gaining international recognition through exports.
In a show of support for local businesses, Vanndy led ministry officials on a visit to Phnom Penh Food Yummy Manufacturing Co Ltd, a prominent Cambodian food processing enterprise located in Sen Sok district.
During the visit, Vanndy toured the facility and observed the enterprise’s production techniques.
He was warmly welcomed by Hok Sreyhour, chairwoman of the enterprise, who shared the company’s inspiring journey and ambitious goals.
According to General Manager Chea Chetra, the enterprise was born in 2020 as a family business, initially selling products online via Facebook during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our products received tremendous support from customers because they are convenient and help save time and money in cooking,” said Chetra.
“These are authentic Khmer foods, and we are committed to conserving and elevating their standard while raising global awareness.”
To achieve its goals, the enterprise transitioned from a small family business to a full-fledged enterprise.
It focuses on local tastes with the finest ingredients, high-quality production, and premium packaging.
“We have already exported 500kg of products to South Korea and aim to expand our exports to five more countries. Currently, we have unofficially exported to ten countries,” Chetra added.
The enterprise now employs around 30 staff. It provides a variety of products, including raw ingredients, seasonings, sauce, ready-to-cook, and ready-to-eat items, to meet consumers’ needs professionally.
Vanndy was visiting the enterprise for the first time, and he expressed admiration and support.
“On behalf of the Ministry and the Royal Government, we are proud of what Khmer businesses can achieve,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of exporting to international markets in addition to serving local markets and praised the enterprise’s efforts.
“I am particularly interested in your production of Amok, our national cuisine,” Vanndy noted, highlighting the significance of quality assurance and hygiene in food products.
“Health safety is crucial, and I encourage you to continue exploring the best tastes while focusing on healthy food.”
Vanndy urged the enterprise to maintain high standards of quality control, to avoid any incidents that could damage the reputation of their products.
He expressed hope that the enterprise would expand its product range and grow, while reaching out to international markets.
He also praised the success of the enterprise in supplying products to 7-Eleven Cambodia and encouraged further innovation and development of human resources.
Vanndy also highlighted the importance of clean water and sustainable practices in the face of challenges posed by climate change.
In conclusion, Vanndy encouraged the enterprise to continue leading their industry, and to cooperate with relevant institutions to improve operations, and explore new markets.
“We appreciate your efforts to export products abroad and hope you continue to set the standard for quality and innovation in Cambodian food products,” he said.
Also during an interview, Sreyhour noted that her enterprise aims to transform their products to meet higher standards leading to increased exports.
“We have successfully exported to South Korea,” she said, adding that they hope to export to Australia by the end of the year, with samples already sent to the US, New Zealand, and other countries.
Currently, the enterprise produces around 300 to 500 items per day. The product range include prepared food (ready-to-eat), frozen marinated meat (ready-to-cook), and sauces and seasonings.
“We dream of exporting Amok abroad for international recognition, as well as packed Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles),” she said, urging for strong local support.
She added that the company is considering Halal food, likely to be introduced next year.
“Since last year, we have received strong support, and our products can be found at AEON, Makro, Lucky, and 7-Eleven,” she added.
