H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasised the critical role of processing in enhancing the value of Cambodia’s rice sector, at the 7th Cambodia Rice Forum 2024 held in Phnom Penh on Tuesday.
During the forum, H.E. Hem Vanndy along with H.E. Mrs. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, and H.E. Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to advancing the rice sector through research and innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices, with the goal of enhancing the global competitiveness of Cambodian rice.
In his address, H.E. Minister outlined MISTI’s role in transforming agricultural products through processing and innovation to create agro-industrial and industrial products that deliver greater value.
He urged investment in critical infrastructure such as transportation, logistics, storage facilities, and processing plants to enhance the value of rice products and explore niche market opportunities.
H.E. Hem V
anndy also advocated for the adoption of environmentally friendly farming practices and modern agricultural technologies in accordance with the Agri-Tech Roadmap, emphasising that these practices not only improve yield but also contribute to sustainability, an increasing concern for global consumers.
He shared that, to further support the Cambodia’s rice sector, especially exporters, MISTI has transformed the Science, Technology, and Innovation National Laboratory into a public administration institution, which is set to offer expanded testing capabilities starting this December.
According to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, Cambodia is home to 19 large-scale rice factories with an investment of US$342.30 million, alongside 19,570 small and medium-sized rice mills nationwide with an investment of US$111.7 million. The Royal Government of Cambodia aims to boost rice exports to 1 million tonnes by 2025, with an annual growth target of 3 to 5 percent thereafter.
Source: Agence
Kampuchea Presse