Agriculture serves as the backbone of Cambodia’s early-stage industrialization journey, employing over 70% of the population and contributing a quarter of the country’s GDP. The sector is primarily focused on rice and rubber production, but with the average landholding size around 1 hectare and increasing urbanization pressures, there are evident productivity gaps that need to be addressed. Interventions are required to prioritize enhancing scale efficiencies, consolidating crops for better yields, mitigating climate risks, and adding value to agricultural products such as expanding the export scale of rubber wood furniture.
To accelerate export competitiveness, it is essential to establish integrated supply chains that seamlessly connect provincial farmers to global markets while ensuring compliance with international standards. Fortunately, Cambodia’s agriculture advisors bring valuable expertise in facilitating market access, guiding regional governments, and assisting trade bodies in developing strategies to enhance export capabilities.
Furthermore, promoting agripreneurship is crucial for unlocking the full productivity potential of Cambodia’s agriculture sector in a responsible manner. Initiatives such as community farming incubation programs, integration of climate-smart irrigation techniques, and adoption of product traceability models are essential for empowering farmers, improving agricultural practices, and ensuring sustainable growth. By equipping farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge, Cambodia can foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture, leading to increased productivity and economic prosperity for rural communities.
In conclusion, transforming Cambodia’s agriculture sector requires a multifaceted approach that addresses productivity challenges, enhances export competitiveness, and promotes entrepreneurship. By implementing targeted interventions focused on efficiency improvements, value addition, market access facilitation, and skill development, Cambodia can unlock the full potential of its agricultural industry while ensuring sustainable growth and resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
