(Svay Rieng): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Cambodia's relatively small population means the country produces more agricultural and fishery products than it consumes, making export markets essential to supporting farmers' incomes.

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

"Cambodia is a small country, and export markets for agricultural products are therefore very important. We must secure both the volume and value that can be passed on to benefit our farmers. If we have production but cannot export it, our domestic market of 17 million people cannot absorb it all," the prime minister said.

Samdech Thipadei noted that Cambodia produces around 12 million tonnes of paddy rice annually. In comparison, domestic consumption is only 5 to 6 million tonnes, leaving roughly half of total production available for export.

"We must ensure there are markets for the remaining production," he added.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet said the government's efforts to negotiate and open new overseas markets have been a key priority, particularly through the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, which serves as the government's lead agency in supporting farmers and expanding export opportunities.

He acknowledged that individual farmers cannot export their products directly and instead rely on exporting companies to access international markets. For that reason, the Royal Government has continued to negotiate market access abroad, despite the challenges involved, to create more export opportunities for Cambodia's agricultural sector.
=FRESH NEWS