Phnom Penh (FN), Sep. 10 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed pride in the growing presence of Cambodian products in international markets, noting that 30 years ago, no Cambodian products were available in the United States.
The premier spoke on Tuesday (Sep. 10) during the 7th Cambodia Rice Forum, held in Phnom Penh under the theme, ‘Transforming the Cambodia Rice Supply Chain to be Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable’.
"Thirty years ago, when I went to study in the US, I walked into an Asian shop and saw no Cambodian products. However, today we can proudly say that many of our agricultural products are exported, not only to the US but also to numerous European countries," the premier underscored.
Hun Manet also expressed his gratitude to Cambodia’s international partners, especially the private sector, for their cooperation in promoting Cambodian agricultural products on the global stage.
According to the head of the Royal Government, besides agricultural products, Cambodia also exports a range of goods including garments, textiles, bags, jewelry, and electrical components. This progress marks a significant achievement for the country compared to 30 years ago.
Regarding the rice sector, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet noted that the Royal Government has provided substantial support, such as soft loans for farmers and tax incentives for private businesses involved in the rice industry.
The premier added that the Royal Government continues to focus on the rice sector by offering various incentives, such as tax exemptions for agricultural communities, rice mills, and rice exporters. Additionally, the import of agricultural equipment and machinery for rice mills is exempt from taxes and duties, which are absorbed by the state.
In the first eight months of 2024, Cambodia exported more than USD 17 billion worth of goods, up 16.7%, while imports totaled nearly USD 19 billion, up 16.2% compared to the same period in 2023, according to a report from the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia.
Cambodia's largest export markets include the US, Viet Nam, China, Japan, Thailand, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, France, Hong Kong, and other major trading partners. The country’s main exports include garments and accessories made from fabrics, fruits and nuts, machinery and electrical equipment, footwear, rubber and rubber products, among other key commodities.
=FRESH NEWS
