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Cambodia is preparing to export 500,000 tonnes of dried cassava directly to China, aiming to open new markets for farmers. Minister Dith Tina supports this initiative and encourages Chinese investment in other agricultural sectors.

On March 11, 2023, Phnom Penh hosted a signing ceremony involving Ministry of Agriculture officials and Chai Muchi from Global Ecological Rice (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. Makara focused on export strategy, while Muchi highlighted prior research collaborations and Chinese approval for Cambodian product exports.

Cambodia saw robust cassava export growth in Q1 2023, primarily to Thailand. With a 28.50% increase reported by the Ministry of Commerce, valued at $285.052 million, the sector, buoyed by partnerships like CSVUAC's venture with Global Ecological Rice (Cambodia) Co Ltd, promises continued expansion and significant GDP contribution.

Lao PDR aims for 2.5% agricultural growth by 2025, prioritizing cassava for export, particularly to China. Strategies include enhancing cassava production and processing, with a potential $100 million investment offering significant returns.

Laos saw cassava become its top agricultural export, earning over $408 million in the first months of 2023. Key markets include China, Vietnam, and Italy. Despite challenges, Laos aims to hit $2 billion in agricultural exports, with cassava leading alongside coffee and bananas.

In January 2024, Laos faces a trade deficit exceeding $188 million, with cassava leading exports. China remains the top destination for Laotian exports, worth $198 million, amidst economic challenges like soaring inflation rates. Total imports and exports in January 2024 amount to around $1.3 billion.

Myanmar struggles with low tapioca exports, emphasizing the need for market promotion, particularly in China. Despite challenges, its strategic location and tapioca's versatility present opportunities for significant foreign income, especially with China and India's demand for tapioca starch.

In 2023, Myanmar's cassava market saw a recovery despite declining consumption. Production surged, led by exports, but faced fluctuations in yield. Despite modern techniques, weather may affect future yields. Thailand and China were key export destinations, with Thailand showing the highest export value growth.

Cassava, introduced to Myanmar in the mid-19th century, has evolved from a traditional food crop to a significant economic commodity in the country. Widely cultivated across various regions, cassava serves multiple purposes, including starch production, snack food, flavoring, and animal feed processing.

Vietnam remains the world's second-largest cassava exporter, with over 120 processing facilities handling 11.3 million tons annually. Despite a notable surge in August 2023 exports, valued at $103.26 million, challenges such as declining supply due to mosaic disease may hinder future growth.

Vietnam's cassava industry grapples with supply shortages from factory closures and the cassava mosaic virus, leading to production disruptions and falling inventories. Tay Ninh province, a key cassava hub, faces crop damage from the virus and pests amid unfavorable weather.

Vietnam, a major cassava exporter with 120 processing facilities, saw a notable surge in exports, reaching 221,270 tons valued at $103.26 million in August 2023. Despite challenges like declining supply due to mosaic disease, Japan emerges as a key market alongside China, which remains the primary destination.

Thailand's cassava exports to decrease to 9 million tonnes due to drought, down from 11 million tonnes last year. Despite demand, premature harvesting cautioned to maintain quality. Exports down 21% in volume and 19% in value in the first five months of 2023, with plans to import 2.4 million tonnes of cassava chips to compensate.

Cambodia's cassava industry is burgeoning, ranking as the second-largest crop and contributing significantly to the GDP. Despite growth, challenges persist, requiring strategic investments and technological advancements for full potential realization and economic development.

Cassava processing in Cambodia yields substantial waste, posing environmental and health hazards. The National Biodigester Programme promotes biogas solutions, offering economic, health, and environmental benefits. Government policies and initiatives are vital to ensure sustainable waste management and the growth of the cassava sector.

Efficient cassava waste management in Laos requires government policies, financial support, and public awareness to overcome technical and administrative challenges. Leveraging renewable energy opportunities while addressing barriers ensures sustainable development and environmental protection.

Laos' cassava sector drives its economy, with government backing, technology integration, and trade agreements bolstering growth. Overcoming challenges like price fluctuations and natural disasters while capitalizing on opportunities ensures sustainable development and poverty alleviation.