Phnom Penh (FN), Jan. 30 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet pointed out the need for the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, along with the Ministry of Commerce, to collaboratively explore the establishment of a frozen meat system while Cambodia imposes restrictions on the import of certain animal organs and frozen meat parts from abroad.

The premier spoke on Tuesday (Jan. 30) at the closing of the annual meeting of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries at the Ministry.

On that occasion, Samdech Thipadei underlined the necessity for the Royal Government to provide dual assurances to assist farmers in securing higher prices and increased profitability for their agricultural products, and to alleviate the burden of production costs for farmers.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei added that in the past, the Royal Government previously enacted several favourable measures, including tax exemptions for agricultural land, reductions in electricity prices, and the granting of certain concessions. These initiatives were announced on 13 November 2023 during a forum with the private sector, aiming to bolster private sector production and income while addressing cost reduction strategies. However, grants and interventions cannot be perpetual; at some point, the private sector must sustainably operate on its own.

"While Cambodia temporarily suspends the import of frozen [meat] parts, it is crucial for buyers of these frozen parts to engage directly with our farmers and utilize appropriate freezing techniques," Samdech Thipadei underscored.

The premier underscored the importance of facilitating imports and exports locally to enable farmers to compete and ensure sufficient domestic supply, thereby reducing the need for food imports from abroad.

Samdech Thipadei further noted that if Cambodia's policy of refraining from importing certain goods conflicts with World Trade Organization (WTO) principles, Cambodia must enhance its competitiveness to ensure long-term sustainability.
=FRESH NEWS