Phnom Penh, August 6, 2025 — In a significant milestone for Cambodia’s growing agro-food industry, the Cambodia-Korea Food Processing TASK Center was officially inaugurated today at the National Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI). The launch marks a new chapter in Cambodia’s effort to strengthen local SMEs and improve the quality and export-readiness of food products made in the Kingdom.
Funded by the Republic of Korea through its Official Development Assistance (ODA) program, the Center is equipped with a range of advanced technologies and infrastructure that will directly support small and medium-sized food businesses. Among the key features are a pilot food processing plant, a modern food safety and quality analysis unit, dedicated technical support services for SMEs, and a product promotion hall showcasing both Cambodian and Korean food innovations.
Speaking at the launch, H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized the importance of the Center in boosting competitiveness and food safety.
“This Center represents not just an investment in equipment, but a real opportunity for our food producers to raise the standard of their products,” said the Minister. “It will support innovation, job creation, and increase the value of Cambodian-made food in both domestic and international markets.”
Bridging Innovation with Local Enterprise
The pilot plant within the Center features 83 state-of-the-art processing machines. These are capable of converting locally sourced raw materials—like vegetables, grains, and meats—into market-ready products such as noodles, ready-to-eat snacks, beverages, and health food items. For Cambodian entrepreneurs, this facility provides a rare chance to experiment and develop new products under professional guidance.
One of the most critical components of the Center is its Food Quality and Safety Analysis Unit, which is fitted with 34 high-end lab instruments. These include technologies like HPLC-MSMS and ICP-OES, which can test for everything from nutrients and additives to contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals. Meeting strict global standards such as GMP and HACCP is no longer out of reach for Cambodian producers.
A Platform for Growth, Not Just Processing
Dr. Paik Hyun Dong, President of the Korea Food Research Institute (KFRI), highlighted the broader vision behind the project.
“This is not just about machines or training,” he said. “It’s about building the backbone for Cambodia’s food industry—supporting SMEs, improving food quality, and helping companies enter new markets.”
Beyond its technical aspects, the Center will offer customized consulting, product certification support, and knowledge-sharing workshops, all geared toward helping small businesses grow sustainably. The Promotion Hall is also expected to play a big role by giving entrepreneurs a space to tell their stories, share successes, and build brand trust with both local consumers and international buyers.
“Through pilot production, analysis, and mentoring, we hope to create a strong and sustainable ecosystem for Cambodia’s food sector,” added Mr. Jung Jae Hak, Vice President of Global Growth at the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT). “And we are committed to walk with Cambodia on this journey.”
An Open Invitation to the Private Sector
Minister Vanndy also made a strong appeal to Cambodia’s private sector. He encouraged local food producers and processors to come forward and make use of the facilities and expertise now available at their doorstep.
“This Center is a tool. It’s up to our private sector to use it. Whether it’s improving packaging, meeting safety standards, or trying out a new food concept—this is the place to do it,” he said.
The Cambodia-Korea Food Processing TASK Center is being viewed as more than just a technical hub—it’s also a symbol of growing cooperation between the two countries and a shared commitment to sustainable development. As Cambodia continues to build on its strengths in agriculture and food production, the Center is expected to serve as a key catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship, and trade in the region.
For Cambodia’s SMEs, especially those in food and agriculture, today’s launch could not have come at a better time. With the right support, tools, and collaboration in place, local producers now have a stronger shot at scaling up and stepping confidently into competitive global markets.
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