Agriculture Ministry Issues Guidelines for Export to China

Chun Sakada, VOA Khmer
Phnom Penh Tuesday, 18 January 2011

via CAAI

Photo: AP

Cambodian farmers cut rice at a rice paddy farm during the harvest season at Sala Kumrou, Puresat province.

"The guidelines will help reduce poverty in rural areas by increasing their export potential."

The Ministry of Agriculture on Tuesday began circulating a new procedure for the export of rice and cassava to China, in an effort to bring cleaner and higher-quality production to meet import requirements.

The new guidelines focus on the elimination of insects, hygiene standards, proper documentation and other requirements for export to China.

Kith Seng, an undersecretary of state for the Ministry of Agriculture, said the new circular was meant to "protect Cambodia's interest" as well as its trade partner in accordance with an export agreement signed between the two countries last year.

The guidelines will help reduce poverty in rural areas by increasing their export potential, he said.

Cheang Kim, director of the Bayon Rice Trading company, said the requirements are not complicated and represent "good news" for farmers.

Cambodia produced a milled rice surplus of nearly 2.5 million tons last year, and officials hope to increase its export potential in coming years, especially in trade agreements with China.