PHNOM PENH: Phnom Penh will welcome international buyers and investors to the second annual Cashew and Pepper Trade Forum next week. The production of the two agricultural commodities is playing an increasingly active role in the national economy.
According to a joint press release by the Ministry of Commerce, the EU and the German government, the event will take place from Nov 10-12. Themed “Taking Cambodia to the World”, the forum will have a particular focus on “Trading with Europe”.
It is expected to attract around 400 participants, including producers, exporters, buyers, investors and service providers from Cambodia, Europe and Asean members, as well as other nations.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural forum, it aims to go beyond dialogue to focus on concrete business activities, aiming to help businesses expand into new markets, establish trade partnerships and explore investment opportunities.
Commerce minister Cham Nimul noted that as Cambodia strengthens its position as a prominent global supplier of cashew nuts, pepper and high-quality agri-food products, the ministry remains firmly committed to enhancing export competitiveness and diversifying markets for these strategic sectors.
“Building on the strong foundation and achievements of the first forum, the second edition will place a strong emphasis on delivering tangible trade outcomes by translating enhanced export readiness, compliance with international standards and supply chain resilience into high-value trade and investment partnerships,” she said.
She added that the commerce ministry is actively promoting the integration of Cambodian enterprises into global value chains with increasingly demanding quality and standards requirements.
“With strong cooperation and partnerships from the EU and Germany, the ministry is continuing its efforts to build an enabling trade environment and enhance the reputation of Cambodian products as trusted, sustainable and highly competitive choices in international markets,” she explained.
EU ambassador to Cambodia Igor Driesmans said the EU was proud to support Cambodia in strengthening the competitiveness and international presence of its cashew and pepper sectors.
“Through initiatives such as this forum, Team Europe is helping Cambodian businesses connect with European markets, attract investment and meet quality and sustainability standards, creating long-term trade opportunities,” he said.
“By bringing together producers, buyers, investors and service providers, this forum represents an important step towards building more resilient value chains and generating lasting value for Cambodian farmers and businesses.”
German ambassador to Cambodia Silke Rofer also noted that Germany was proud to partner with Cambodia and the EU in strengthening the country’s cashew and pepper sectors.
“This forum reflects our shared commitment to supporting sustainable value chains, promoting quality standards, improving market access and building long-term trade partnerships that benefit both Cambodia and Europe,” she said. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
