Cambodia’s agritech sector has become a focal point for investors, with growing interest in the country’s startup ecosystem and the deployment of advanced agricultural technologies, according to EcoBusiness. The sector has witnessed a surge in active agritech startups, doubling in number from 2018 to 2022.
One notable investment in the sector is the undisclosed pre-series A funding received by Azaylla, an agriculture supply chain platform, from Singapore-based investor Insitor Partners. Azaylla works with smallholder farmers and cooperatives to source fresh produce, and the funding will help the company expand its sustainable and socially responsible agribusiness network. Leveraging technology, Azaylla aims to supply Cambodian agricultural products to supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, and caterers.
Cambodia has been at the forefront of adopting the latest agricultural technologies in areas such as water management, drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and water sensors. Precision agriculture systems, including GPS, remote sensing, and drones, have been embraced by farmers to collect key data on soil conditions, crop health, and pest infestation. The widespread use of smartphones has also allowed farmers to access agricultural information through various mobile applications.
Japanese agritech firms have shown substantial interest in entering the Cambodian market, with plans to acquire startups, engage in carbon trading, and invest in innovative agritech companies. Additionally, Chinese company Yunnan Construction Group is in talks with the Council for the Development of Cambodia to invest in the agritech sector by establishing an agro-processing Special Economic Zone near Siem Reap Angkor International Airport.
Sreekanth Podol, Founder and CEO of NR Farm Products, an Indian agriculture producing and supplying firm, predicts that Cambodia will attract significant investments in the agricultural sector in the coming years. He believes that Cambodia’s large agricultural base, coupled with the adoption of new technologies, positions it as an attractive destination for investors seeking opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Oxfam, a developmental organization operating globally, has played a vital role in Cambodia’s agritech development. Its BlocRice Project, which utilizes blockchain technology, has been well-received as a way to address challenges faced by farmers and agricultural laborers. The project empowers farmers by providing them with information about their supply chain and electronically verifying their contract conditions. It also aims to introduce cashless payments, enabling accurate and timely verification of payments from buyers to farmers.
Moreover, Cambodia and Israel have entered into a partnership to strengthen Cambodia’s agritech landscape. Prak Sereyvath, Executive Director of the Cambodia Institute for Research and Rural Development (CIRD), highlights the value of applying Israel’s advanced technologies in Cambodia. However, he emphasizes the need to analyze and adapt these technologies to suit the specific conditions in Cambodia.
With increasing investor interest and the adoption of cutting-edge agricultural technologies, Cambodia’s agritech sector is poised for significant growth. The sector’s development holds the potential to drive advancements in the country’s agricultural practices, benefit farmers, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Source: Khmer Times
