Cambodia launched a $27 million project on Thursday to enhance the sustainability, export, competitiveness, and inclusiveness of the Kingdom’s cashew nut and pepper industries, according to a joint press release.
Jointly funded by the European Union (EU) and Germany’s Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the five-year project will be implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation or GIZ in collaboration with the Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in at least four key provinces including Kampong Thom, Kratie, Tboung Khmum, and Kampot.
The press release said the project will focus on increasing local value addition and strengthening national systems governing food safety and climate-resilient agriculture.
It also aims to ensure decent work practices for workers and to increase the capacity of producers and processors to adopt sustainable practices and relevant standards to meet the export requirements of markets, it added.
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Dith Tina said the project represented a crucial step in strengthening Cambodia’s cashew nut and pepper value chains.
“By embracing green growth and enhancing export competitiveness, we are not only improving the livelihoods of our farmers but also ensuring that Cambodia contributes to “Carbon Net Zero” and remains resilient in the face of climate challenges,” the minister said at the event.
EU Ambassador to Cambodia Igor Driesmans emphasised the importance of investing in sustainability and social due diligence to expand access to niche markets for Cambodian agriculture products. Xinhua
