(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said the Royal Government has introduced a series of interventions to help farmers retain more income after harvest, alongside efforts to expand market access for agricultural products.

The premier spoke on Wednesday (Jul. 1) during the National Fish Day celebration in Svay Rieng Province.

The measures include allocating state funds to stabilise agricultural product prices and providing irrigation support to protect crop yields. The prime minister also reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, which he described as the backbone of the national economy.

"The market fluctuates. Sometimes rice prices rise, sometimes they fall. The Royal Government has allocated tens of millions of dollars to stabilise prices. Last year, we provided USD 60 million to rice millers so they could purchase paddy rice directly from our farmers," Samdech Thipadei said.

He added that the government has also addressed water shortages affecting the dry-season rice crop by mobilising the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology to ensure adequate irrigation.

"If markets are available, we will continue working to maintain price stability. More importantly, we want to ensure that farmers can keep more money in their pockets after selling their produce," the prime minister said.

The measures reflect the government's efforts to address the challenges faced by farmers, particularly during periods of market volatility. Direct purchases of paddy rice from farmers help reduce reliance on intermediaries, allowing farmers to receive a greater share of the returns.

The initiatives form part of the Royal Government's Pentagonal Strategy – Phase I, which prioritises sustainable and inclusive agricultural development. The government said continued support for farmers is key to strengthening food security, improving rural incomes, and promoting long-term economic growth.
=FRESH NEWS