PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for the public to increase support for and consumption of locally made products to strengthen the national economy. He noted that as the kingdom faces uncertainty stemming from the global economic situation and rising geopolitical tensions, safeguarding economic sovereignty is more important than ever.
In a message marking the 9th National Day for the Promotion of Cambodian Products, to be observed on April 9, under the theme “Khmer Produce, Khmer Use, Khmer Prosper”, the premier highlighted that current challenges — including global economic instability and border tensions — underscore the importance of peace and stability as foundations for economic development.
He stressed that promoting domestic products is not only about supporting local producers, but also a key strategy to build a resilient economy and generate added value within the country at a time of regional and global uncertainty.
“I have observed a strong sense of nationalism among all Cambodians, reflected in firm national unity between citizens, the government and the armed forces,” he said.
“Promoting Cambodian products has become more meaningful, as it demonstrates our ability to generate economic value independently and protect economic sovereignty during uncertain times,” he added.
The message noted that the government is implementing a range of policies and strategies to enhance domestic production capacity, including improving product quality, expanding market access, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and strengthening Cambodian product identity to compete in both domestic and international markets.
The prime minister also underscored the importance of the “One Village, One Product” policy in driving grassroots economic development, creating jobs and improving rural livelihoods, as locally made goods increasingly become a preferred choice among consumers.
“Through this policy, the movement has actively contributed to transforming rural products into commercial goods, generating employment and income for families, preserving traditional crafts, building regional product identities and enhancing communities’ capacity to manage businesses and foster innovation,” he added.
Locally made products, derived and processed from available raw materials, are being developed into consumer goods and souvenirs that reflect Cambodian identity and culture.
With improving quality, competitive pricing and sufficient supply, they are gaining stronger consumer confidence and market potential.
Their use not only supports local producers, but also reflects national pride and contributes to economic growth.
Te Taing Por, president of the Federation of Associations for Small and Medium Enterprises of Cambodia (FASMEC), said consumption of local products has risen significantly amid shifting consumer trends.
Speaking at the “Produce Together, Use National Products Together” themed media forum, he said “I was surprised by a report from the Ministry of Commerce showing a sharp increase in domestic product consumption.”
“Following the public boycott of Thai goods, support for Cambodian products has grown markedly, prompting local enterprises to expand production to meet rising domestic demand, while consumers are increasingly turning toward locally made products,” he noted.
He added that the trend signals not only growing support for national products, but also expanding opportunities for domestic enterprises to scale up production capacity and play a more active role in the national economic value chain.
The prime minister also issued key recommendations focusing on boosting domestic production from the household and community levels to the national level, encouraging innovation and adding value to agricultural products to meet market demand and reduce imports.
Ministries and relevant institutions were urged to strengthen cooperation to improve quality, competitiveness and market expansion.
He further called on national and sub-national committees to actively identify potential products, expand networks and address producers’ challenges, while organising exhibitions and trade events to increase product visibility and market access.
At the same time, citizens were urged to continue supporting Cambodian products, while producers were encouraged to invest in quality and innovation.
The prime minister highlighted the need for Cambodian youth to become innovators and future economic leaders, while all stakeholders were called upon to continue collaborating to strengthen the capacity and commercial potential of Cambodian products in both domestic and international markets.
He concluded that choosing and supporting local products is a crucial factor in building a strong and resilient national economy as Cambodia moves toward its long-term development vision. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
