Govt encourages fish farming to boost economy, exports

Govt encourages fish farming to boost economy, exports

The government prioritises promoting and increasing the value-added of the agricultural and agro-industrial sectors, which are key sources of growth.

Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth has called on fish farmers, collectors, distributors, exporters, and processing industries to strengthen their capacity, enhance productivity and quality, and improve services to meet market demands and standards.

He stressed the need to build a strong, attractive, and higher value-added production chain capable of competing with neighbouring countries in both quantity and quality.

The appeal was made on Saturday during his visit to fish farms and processing facilities in Stoung district, Kampong Thom province, where he encouraged increased productivity, diversification, value chain support, and improved food safety for local products.

Senior Minister Thong Khon; Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology (MOWRAM) Thor Chetha; Kao Thach, Delegate of the Royal Government in Charge as CEO of the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB); Chhieng Vanmunin, Delegate of the Royal Government in charge as Chief Executive Officer of Khmer Enterprise; Nuon Pharath, Kampong Thom provincial governor; and other local authorities were present on the occasion.

Vissoth emphasised that under the Pentagonal Strategy-Phase I, led by Prime Minister Hun Manet, the government prioritises promoting and increasing the value-added of the agricultural and agro-industrial sectors, which are key sources of growth. He said these efforts aim to diversify the economic base to improve people’s livelihoods.

Highlighting the potential of Kampong Thom province, particularly the Tonle Sap and major rivers, which are well-suited for aquaculture, Vissoth said the working group is studying challenges and solutions while preparing a master plan for an aquaculture ecosystem that connects the entire production chain—from seed production and breeding to processing, marketing, and competition.

“This study aims to improve local production capacity, support local products, and expand export potential,” he explained. “The goal is to increase added economic value, create jobs and income, enhance livelihoods, and make economic activities more vibrant and sustainable.”

He reiterated his call for fish farmers and industry owners to cooperate in building a dynamic ecosystem and competitive production chain.

“We should not import what we can produce ourselves and compete with. By strengthening local capacity, we can create jobs, generate income, and improve the livelihoods of our people,” he emphasised.

Tan Vanna, owner of a fish farm in Kampong Thom province, said his farm has been operating for three years, with a total of 96 fish ponds and an average daily production capacity of 27 tonnes.

The farm supplies fish to Phnom Penh, Banteay Meanchey province, and other destinations, and has also exported to international markets.

Vanna also highlighted several challenges, including competition from imported fish from neighbouring countries and issues related to electricity supply.

Kampong Thom Governor Nuon Pharat said last month that Prime Minister Hun Manet has asked the Kampong Thom provincial administration to begin preparations for a large-scale aquaculture project covering 3,000 hectares in Stoung district, set to begin next year.

He added that the mega project is expected to boost the province’s potential in both agriculture and tourism.

It may be recalled that Stoung district is a key hub for aquaculture, particularly for fish processing into dried fish for local consumption, distribution, and export. The district is currently home to 115 fish-farming families and 65 fish-processing handicrafts.

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