Boosting rice quality for global longevity
Published on: March 12, 2024.
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Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul has highlighted the importance of improving the quality and sustainability of Cambodian rice exports in order to establish a strong reputation on the global stage. Nimul stated that the focus should be on sustainability and trust in the quality of Cambodian rice, with a long-term vision of elevating the Kingdom’s reputation in the international rice market. These remarks were made at a national workshop in Phnom Penh, organized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in collaboration with the commerce ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries.
Nimul also called for the creation of a collective brand for Cambodian rice exports and emphasized the need for responsible certification of rice quality. She stressed the importance of prioritizing quality and sustainable demand, while also establishing a clear and reliable source and supply of rice. It was noted that Cambodia ranked as the 10th-largest rice exporter in the world in 2023, despite being a relatively small nation.
Rebekha Bell, the FAO representative to Cambodia, acknowledged the highly competitive nature of the regional and global rice sector. She stated that the development strategy being formulated should serve as a guiding document for future investments and actions. The strategy should focus on optimizing farmer incomes, creating value addition opportunities in rural economies, and enhancing the export of milled rice to markets where Cambodia has a competitive edge. Bell highlighted the importance of drawing on successful experiences and lessons from countries like India, Thailand, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the US, and Australia.
At the workshop, Yang Saing Koma, the secretary of state of the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized the potential of Cambodia in rice production and export. He stressed the need for enhanced cooperation between the agricultural and commerce ministries and the Cambodian Rice Federation (CRF) to achieve success in this endeavor.
Source: [Phnom Penh Post](https://www.phnompenhpost.com)
