Cambodian Farmer
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries recently released a handbook on contract farming to promote agricultural leasing arrangements among farmers and buyers in the hope it will aid sustainable development of the sector.
Hean Vanhan, the director-general of the General Directorate of Agriculture, said introducing the new handbook to farmers and traders is important for the sector, as they could play a big role in promoting season-based agriculture and ensuring fair prices.
“Through this new publications, we want to raise awareness among farmers, agricultural communities and traders of the benefits of contract farming,” Mr Vanhan said.
“Contract farming benefits both farmers and traders. Farmers can plant crops according to the season with peace of mind because they know they will sell their products at prices that have been negotiated beforehand.
“For traders, on the other hand, contract farming guarantees a certain supply of the products they want.”
Song Saran, the CEO of Amru Rice Cambodia, said his company works with rice farmers in Preah Vihear province under contract farming models.
“After a positive experience working with rice farmers in Preah Vihear, our company is now ready to sign contracts with farmers for other crops,” Mr Saran said.
“We want to help farmers and we feel contract farming is a good option as it allows them to be planting and harvesting all year round.
“Contract farming models give farmers a guarantee that they will be able to sell their produce at reasonable prices,” Mr Saran added.
Nowy Amru rice is working with farmers who grow pepper, ginger and turmeric, according to Mr Saran.
About 800 agricultural communities across the nation operate under contract farming models, planting, among other crops, rice, pepper, cashew and cassava, according to Mr Vanhan.
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