Cambodia launches national union of modern farming communities to boost governance, market access

PHNOM PENH, July 2, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has officially launched the Union of Modern Agricultural Communities of Cambodia, a new umbrella organization aimed at strengthening governance, improving market access and enhancing support for modern farming groups nationwide, officials said Wednesday.

The union was formally recognized during a ceremony presided over by Agriculture Minister Dith Tina at the ministry’s headquarters.

Tina hailed the initiative as a “historic milestone” for the country’s agricultural sector, saying it would reinforce existing structures by improving market linkages, financial management, technical coordination and strategic investment planning.

“The establishment of the Union of Modern Agricultural Communities of Cambodia marks a new chapter in strengthening our agricultural community network and ensuring it is better equipped to connect farmers with markets, improve financial management and support long-term development,” he said.

The minister praised officials, technical experts and community leaders for expanding modern farming communities, while urging them to continue addressing challenges. He also congratulated the union, which has secured voluntary membership from 32 communities across the country.

He called on the union’s leadership to prioritize collective interests and uphold principles of honesty, trust, transparency and good governance.

Agriculture ministry spokesman Khim Finan said earlier this year that the Modern Farming Community Policy has generated around 30 contract farming deals worth $40 million, covering rice, cashew, pepper and vegetables, as well as Skouy chicken and Pailin longan added in 2025.