Agriculture a sector of high priority

The Royal Government of Cambodia places high priority on the agriculture sector.

With the government's policy of enhancing the agriculture sector through improved productivity and diversification, the sector plays a crucial role in the contribution to poverty reduction and sustainable growth of the national economy. The sector absorbs around 75 percent of the country's total work force. Among the 14.6 million of Cambodia population, more than 80 percent live in rural areas and rely on agriculture.

To go along with the country's recent remarkable economic growth, at an average annual rate of 11.5 percent from 2004 to 2006, the agriculture has also achieved significant progress, accounting for approximately 30 percent of the gross domestic product.

In 2007, Cambodia produced more than 2 million tons of paddy rice. Besides rice cultivation, the sector is responsible for promoting agro-industrial cropping, animal health and production, and sustainable development of natural resources, including arable land, forests and fisheries.

In recent years, the agriculture sector has seen increasing investment, both from local and foreign investors. Great investment potential still has been envisaged for the sector. The development of agro-industrial plantations and the product processing facilities top the agenda of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

A number of foreign investments have also been in the country for developing animal husbandry and feed processing plants, while some have set up their businesses in fisheries.

In short, the government has given priority to the development of the sector. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has been ready to enthusiastically welcome and work with all potential investors in the field of agriculture.

The article is written by Chan Sarun, Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

(China Daily 04/10/2008 page28)