MAFF calls for pepper value addition to unlock new market access

MAFF calls for pepper value addition to unlock new market access

The ministry, in coordination with private sector partners, is redoubling its efforts to boost pepper exports, recognising the commodity’s potential in international markets.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) emphasised value addition and international compliance for Cambodia’s pepper sector to unlock the pepper global potential.

The potential for pepper crops is still great, and the ministry is improving farming of this crop to achieve high standards and quality to compete with other countries, said Khim Finan, MAFF spokesman.

“Pepper has a huge potential, but if we don’t direct the production, we cannot unlock the pepper’s potential and access to new markets,” Finan said at the Cambodia Agriculture Forum & Agriculture 2025, which ended in Phnom Penh on Sunday.

Figures from the ministry showed that about 20,000 tonnes of pepper are produced annually and 50 to 60 percent of the total pepper production is from Cambodia’s northeastern province of Tbong Khmum.

Finan stated that the market price of pepper is now reaching $6 to $7 per kilogram, up from $3 or $4 per kilogram a few years ago.

The ministry, in close coordination with private sector partners, is redoubling its efforts to boost pepper exports, recognising the commodity’s strong potential in high-value international markets.

The push focuses on enhancing quality, improving processing, and securing direct market access, particularly in Europe and China.

The Kingdom’s renowned pepper, including the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) certified Kampot Pepper, is viewed as a key driver for agricultural growth and rural economic development.

Pepper exporters are aggressively stepping up efforts to diversify their global reach, aiming to reduce the sector’s reliance on traditional channels and capture higher value in international markets.

Sela Pepper Co Ltd, one of the largest local processors and exporters, which has successfully established footholds in more than ten countries across multiple continents, including key markets in Asia and Europe, said Veot Sophorn, Sale Supervisor at Sela Pepper Co Ltd.

Speaking with Khmer Times, Sophorn said, “Many big markets in Europe and China are interested in pepper products, so we are promoting products widely to existing markets and new markets.”

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