Phnom penh: The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) organized a forum in Kampong Thom provincial city on June 25, targeting key challenges in the cashew sector. The event aimed to address issues in cultivation, collection, processing, and export, while proposing solutions to fortify Cambodia's cashew value chain.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the forum gathered 61 participants, including H.E. Meas Piseth, Secretary of State at MAFF, officials and advisers from the ASPIRE-AT programme, and representatives from the Kampong Thom Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Attendees included representatives from the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank, the Farmers and Nature Network, cashew farmers from Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, and Thbong Khmum provinces, as well as members of the Cambodian Cashew Federation and cashew-related businesses.

The discussions centered on government agricultural policies, MAFF strategies, and ASPIRE-AT implementation. Participants examined challenges faced by farmers, ARDB loan procedures, buyer requirements, phytosanitary standards, contract farming, market access, export standards, and enhancing partnerships and competitiveness within the value chain.

As part of the event, participants visited Santana Company, which is involved in cashew cultivation, collection, processing, and sales for both domestic and international markets. Attendees expressed appreciation for the forum, highlighting the improved understanding, strengthened business linkages, and enhanced cooperation across the cashew value chain.

The ASPIRE-AT programme, implemented by MAFF with support from the Royal Government of Cambodia and grants from several international organizations, seeks to promote agricultural development, trade, and inclusive growth.

According to the Cashew Association of Cambodia, the country's cashew sector achieved a historic milestone in 2025, generating US$1.5 billion in revenue from raw cashew nut exports.