Cambodia Launches Cassava Federation to Boost Global Market Competitiveness
The Cassava Federation of Cambodia (CFC) was officially inaugurated to strengthen the cassava sector and enhance its global market competitiveness. The launch event, presided over by Var Rothsan, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, saw participation from over 120 stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), agricultural associations, cassava producers across 16 provinces, and international organizations such as GIZ, HEKS, and CIRD.
The CFC aims to serve as a comprehensive representative for all players in the cassava supply chain, including farmers, traders, and producers. Rothsan highlighted that the federation aligns with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s National Cassava Policy, which emphasizes developing the sector's potential through public-private partnerships. The CFC's role is expected to facilitate direct engagement between the government and the cassava industry, fostering policies that promote quality, competitiveness, and sustainable practices.
Oknha Chray Son, Chairman of Capital Food Investment Import Export Company, was elected as the President of the CFC. Expressing gratitude for the broad support from cassava producers and industry stakeholders, he outlined a vision for the federation that prioritizes enhancing cultivation techniques and production capacities in line with both national and international standards. Son emphasized that improved planting methods, guided by a strategic roadmap, would be crucial for increasing yields and strengthening the agricultural community’s role in the national economy. He expressed a desire to see cassava farmers, who form the backbone of the sector, benefit from the federation’s efforts, ultimately leading to greater economic resilience and growth.
Furthermore, Son stated that the CFC will work closely with the Ministry of Commerce to develop comprehensive market strategies aimed at increasing export volumes and optimizing production costs. The federation’s collaboration with development partners will focus on improving cultivation practices, boosting processing capacity, and ensuring adherence to stringent quality standards.
According to MAFF's report, the first half of 2024 saw a substantial increase in cassava exports, with over 1.6 million tonnes exported, reflecting a 385% rise from the same period in the previous year. Exports of cassava starch also surged, with a 104% increase, reaching 39,935 tonnes compared to 19,500 tonnes in the first half of 2023. However, there was an 8.86% decline in raw cassava exports, suggesting a shift towards more value-added products. This growth highlights the strategic importance of the cassava sector and underscores the potential benefits that the CFC could bring by consolidating efforts to further develop this critical agricultural commodity.
Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501530925/cfc-formed-to-promote-cassava-sector/