China's Rice Purchases Boost Cambodian Farmers' Incomes

Battambang, Cambodia (ANTARA) - Cambodian rice farmer Roeu Chamroeun has said that the purchase of locally produced rice by Chinese consumers has helped stabilise prices and improve the livelihoods of rural farmers.

The 58-year-old farmer, who grows the fragrant Phka Romduol and Phka Malis rice varieties on his land in Banan district, northwestern Cambodia, said Chinese purchases have guaranteed a stable income for his family and fellow farmers.

Phka Romduol and Phka Malis are award-winning premium long-grain fragrant rice varieties. They are known for their natural aroma, soft texture, and exceptional taste.

Chamroeun harvests more than 50 tonnes of paddy annually from his 9.5-hectare farm. He said his crops are cultivated naturally without chemicals, resulting in a fragrant and delicious flavour.

“I am happy that China buys rice from Cambodia, creating a strong market for Cambodian rice and helping farmers earn a better living,” he told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Suom Mom, another 58-year-old rice farmer in Banan district, Battambang province, expressed delight that Cambodian rice has established a strong market in China.

Meanwhile, Taing Sokchamroeun, 36, a production and quality supervisor at the Taing Eanghuot Rice Mill in Battambang province, said the facility mills an average of 30 tonnes of rice per day.

“We supply rice for the domestic market and have recently expanded exports to China,” he told Xinhua. “Our rice is delicious and fragrant, with hygiene standards certified by HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point), so consumers can trust both its safety and taste.”

Lay Chhun Hour, president of the Cambodia Rice Federation, said China is the largest buyer of Cambodian milled rice.

“China is a very important and high-value market for Cambodian rice, especially for premium fragrant varieties, driving significant income and growth for the sector,” he told Xinhua.