Accra:Cambodia and Singapore have committed to enhancing their bilateral agricultural cooperation and expanding trade. This initiative focuses on increasing Cambodian rice exports and introducing high-potential agribusiness commodities into the Singaporean market.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, this commitment was made following a high-level bilateral meeting on October 29 in Singapore between Cambodia's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, H.E. Dith Tina, and Singapore's Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, H.E. Grace Fu.
During the meeting, both ministers discussed strategies to broaden trade channels and open new commercial pathways for Cambodian agricultural goods. The key commodities identified for expansion include cashew nuts, mangoes, bananas, durians, pepper, fresh vegetables, and livestock products.
Minister Dith Tina reiterated Cambodia's dedication to international standards, highlighting the country's involvement in the global One Health initiative. He noted that this framework enhances food safety systems and aids in the prevention and control of infectious diseases. He assured Singaporean officials of Cambodia's capability to provide a reliable, high-quality, and compliant supply of agricultural produce to meet market demand.
Both nations agreed to continue exploring strategic avenues to advance agribusiness development, aiming to foster a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector. This development is intended to support economic growth and improve rural livelihoods in both countries.
In addition to the bilateral meeting, Minister Dith Tina also met with Mr. Winfried F. Wicklein, Director General for Agriculture, Food, Nature, Rural Development, Water, Urbanisation, and Digital at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). They reviewed the progress of ongoing ADB-supported development initiatives across Cambodia and identified priority areas for future collaboration. They agreed to align ongoing technical and financial support closely with Cambodia's strategic agricultural priorities to ensure a long-term, sustainable impact.