November 7, 2024, Phnom Penh – Cambodian fragrant rice has once again claimed the prestigious title of “World’s Best Rice” at the 2024 International World Rice Conference held in Manila, Philippines. This accolade, awarded by the International Commodity Institute (ICI) and The Rice Trader (TRT), marks the sixth time Cambodia has received this recognition, cementing its status as a global leader in premium rice production.
The announcement is a moment of pride for Cambodia’s rice sector, which continues to shine on the international stage. Speaking on the achievement, Lun Yeng, secretary-general of the Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF), highlighted the collective effort that led to this success. From seed selection to processing and packaging, the entire rice production chain in Cambodia reflects a dedication to quality that sets it apart from competitors.
“This award is an honor for the country and a reflection of the hard work of everyone involved in the rice sector,” said Lun Yeng. “Winning the ‘World’s Best Rice’ title once again not only brings pride to Cambodia but also reinforces our ability to showcase the exceptional quality of our rice to international markets.”
The CRF extended its gratitude to Cambodian farmers and rice mills for their integral roles in the industry’s achievements. Farmers’ expertise in cultivating renowned varieties such as “Phka Rumduol” and “Sen Kra’op,” paired with the advanced processing techniques employed by rice mills, has been instrumental in creating a product that resonates with consumers worldwide.
According to the CRF, the “Malis Angkor” brand has become synonymous with high-quality Cambodian fragrant rice, offering consumers a trusted option in the premium rice market. The continued success of this brand reflects the nation’s commitment to maintaining its reputation for excellence in rice production.
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries spokesperson Im Rachana also celebrated the achievement, acknowledging Cambodia’s previous wins in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2018, and 2022. Sharing her congratulations via social media, Rachana encouraged farmers to continue cultivating the “Phka Rumduol” and “Sen Kra’op” varieties, which are prized for their exceptional flavor and high market demand. These varieties have garnered admiration not only regionally but also on a global scale, making them an integral part of Cambodia’s agricultural identity.
The recognition comes at a time when Cambodia’s rice export figures demonstrate the sector’s significant contribution to the economy. In the first ten months of 2024, Cambodia exported 507,029 tonnes of rice to 66 destinations through 55 exporting companies, generating approximately $376.63 million. In addition, the country exported 4.036 billion tonnes of paddy rice to neighboring countries, earning $1.185 billion.
The international acknowledgment of Cambodia’s fragrant rice is expected to open new doors for the country’s rice exporters, facilitating market expansion and strengthening Cambodia’s position in the global agricultural landscape. For farmers and producers, this award not only validates their efforts but also provides an opportunity to reach broader markets and secure premium prices for their products.
The collaborative spirit within Cambodia’s rice industry continues to drive its success. From government support to farmer innovation and miller expertise, each element contributes to creating a product that stands out on the global stage. As Cambodia celebrates its latest achievement, the country also looks to the future, aiming to further enhance the quality, marketability, and sustainability of its rice production.
This latest recognition underscores Cambodia’s role as a key player in the global rice market, demonstrating that dedication to quality, innovation, and collaboration can yield remarkable results. The “World’s Best Rice” title is not just an accolade for the product but a celebration of the people and processes that make Cambodian rice exceptional.
Source: Phnompenh Post
