IFAD Showcases Cambodia’s Pepper Cooperatives as Export Success at Davos 2026

PHNOM PENH, January 31, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s pepper cooperatives are breaking into global markets, with exports to Germany highlighted at the World Economic Forum in Davos as a flagship success of IFAD‑financed programmes supporting rural farmers.

The International Fund for Agricultural Development said its ASPIRE‑AT programme is enabling smallholder farmers and women to access high‑value export markets by strengthening product quality and consistency. Pepper cooperatives in Tboung Khmum province now meet international standards and supply a Cambodian exporter selling to Europe, boosting incomes and stability for rural households.

“ASPIRE‑AT builds directly on the results achieved under ASPIRE, transforming stronger farmer organisations, improved resilience and extension services into concrete opportunities for agricultural trade,” said project director Meas Pyseth.

The programme comes as Cambodia’s pepper exports totaled just over USD 31 million in 2025, down 12 percent from the previous year due to climate‑related impacts on harvest volumes. Despite lower yields, market conditions remain favorable as global supplies tighten and prices rise.

The programme builds on earlier gains under ASPIRE, where farmers recorded average income increases of 56 percent and market access improvements of 49 percent. ASPIRE‑AT is scaling up by linking more cooperatives to domestic and international buyers, focusing on commodities such as pepper, cashew, chicken and vegetables.

IFAD Country Director Frew Behabtu said the initiative places stronger emphasis on export‑oriented growth, helping cooperatives become market‑ready and connect to global value chains.

Supported by IFAD, the Cambodian government, the EU and the European Investment Bank, ASPIRE‑AT reflects 30 years of IFAD partnership in Cambodia and positions Cambodian products as credible contributors to regional and global markets.