Cambodia Launches First Agriculture Forum to Drive Sector Growth and Public–Private Collaboration

PHNOM PENH, March 3, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has convened its first-ever Agriculture Forum, bringing together government leaders, private sector representatives, and industry experts to strengthen cooperation and accelerate development in one of the country’s most vital economic sectors, officials said Monday.

The forum, held at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, was presided over by Minister Dith Tina and attended by senior representatives from the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and various agricultural working groups.

Discussions focused on strategic measures to boost productivity, advance agro-industrial development, and enhance rice sector competitiveness through stronger public–private coordination.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Cambodia’s economy, contributing 16.1 percent to GDP in 2025 at current prices. While the sector’s share of GDP fluctuates annually, its Gross Value Added has steadily expanded over the past decade, rising from 20,380 billion riel ($5.08 billion) in 2016 to 33,149 billion riel ($8.2 billion) in 2025.

Officials emphasized that beyond its economic weight, agriculture plays a critical role in sustaining rural livelihoods, ensuring food security, and driving export performance.