EU CAPFISH-Capture Project Celebrates Milestones Ahead of December Closure

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Oct. 13, 2025) — More than 100 stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and development partners gathered Wednesday to mark the achievements of the EU CAPFISH-Capture project and chart a path forward as the initiative nears its December 2025 conclusion.

Funded by the European Union and implemented by Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, the post-harvest fisheries development component has focused on improving competitiveness, food safety, financial empowerment, and market access across the country’s fish value chain.

To date, 568 beneficiaries have received tailored support in business planning and food safety, with women-led enterprises accounting for 62% of participants. Among the operational highlights, 64 processors upgraded facilities and expanded markets, 33 micro, small, and medium enterprises advanced toward Cambodia Quality Seal or international HACCP certification, and 11 MSMEs adopted the CamTrace digital traceability system to enhance export readiness.

The project mobilized more than $6 million in combined funding from EU support, private financing, and MSME contributions, resulting in a 61% increase in the volume of safer fishery products and the creation or retention of 17,811 jobs—more than half of which were held by women.

“The EU CAPFISH-Capture project has empowered MSMEs to grow and compete in domestic and international markets,” said Has Sareth, secretary of state at the Ministry of Agriculture. “Stakeholders and media have seen real improvements in operations, food safety, and market access. The value-chain investment support should be replicated across other agricultural sectors.”

UNIDO Senior Technical Advisor Thombathu Seetharama Shetty said the project demonstrated how targeted investment and technical assistance could elevate Cambodia’s post-harvest fisheries. “MSMEs are achieving stronger livelihoods and greater export confidence,” he said.

Koen Everaert, acting head of cooperation at the EU Delegation to Cambodia, said the EU was proud to support the sector. “EU CAPFISH-Capture lays a foundation for sustainable, inclusive and export-oriented growth in line with good international practices,” he said.

Awards were presented to Value Chain Investment Support Facility recipients, project partners, and outstanding MSMEs recognized as “Leaders of Change.” Participants reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining progress through continued collaboration, policy alignment,and private-sector engagement.

As the project approaches its closure, organizers said its legacy will inform future efforts to strengthen Cambodia’s fisheries sector, ensuring continued growth, resilience, and competitiveness.