The focus on sustainable farming practices and the promotion of Cambodian rice were key highlights at the 4th Annual Sustainable Agriculture Summit, which took place at the Cambodiana Hotel in Phnom Penh on February 27-28. The summit, themed ‘Regenerative Agriculture Practices Towards Low Carbon Farming’, was a collaborative effort between the Cambodian Agriculture Cooperative Corporation Plc. (CACC), the Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF), and Grow Asia.
Chan Sokheang, President of the Cambodia Rice Federation, shared that the summit provided invaluable insights into the Sustainable Rice Standard Program, Regenerative Rice Farming Standard, and Organic Rice Standard. He emphasized that the event was a significant platform for stakeholders to foster stronger connections, exchange knowledge, and gain exposure to the latest advancements in digital agriculture technologies, financial solutions, and new agricultural initiatives.
Sokheang highlighted the summit’s role in demonstrating Cambodia’s commitment to adhering to international agricultural standards, contributing to environmental preservation, and enhancing the global presence of Cambodian rice.
Yang Saing Koma, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, underscored the ministry’s unwavering support and cooperation in bolstering the partnership model among all agricultural sector stakeholders for the benefit of the farming community. He pointed out that the concerted efforts toward sustainable agriculture serve as a commendable model for implementing partnerships across the agricultural value chain. This includes collaboration among producers, financial institutions, rice mills, the private sector, development partners, and the government, all aimed at achieving environmental and economic sustainability for rural farmers.
In conjunction with the summit, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, in partnership with the Cambodia Rice Federation and other development partners, officially inaugurated the ‘Rice Sustainability Standards in Cambodia (SRP)’ program. This initiative is geared towards elevating rice production standards, ensuring sustainability, and boosting Cambodia’s rice exports to meet the annual target of 1 million tons by 2025.
Song Saran, CEO of Amru Rice (Cambodia), stressed the significance of the program for the Cambodian rice sector, particularly in terms of strengthening the supply and value chains. This initiative aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers, ensure national food security, and enhance rice export capabilities to global markets.
The event attracted around 350 participants, including leaders from agricultural cooperatives, private sector representatives, government officials, financial institutions, development partners, donors, and researchers, all coming together to advance the cause of sustainable agriculture in Cambodia.
Source: Khmer Times
