Cambodia’s aquaculture sector is showing signs of strengthening, but the challenges of competing with imports continue to dominate the industry. Despite this, fish production remains undeterred, fuelled by the drive for self-reliance.
The aftermath of the Covid-19 outbreak has seen local aquaculturists diversify their skills. To mitigate fish oversupply, they’ve taken up additional tasks such as smoked fish processing, shrimp drying and the creation of the famed prahok. This shift towards producing durable goods may be the key to expanding the Cambodian fish market and improving farmer livelihoods.
In Tang Krasaing commune of Kampong Thom province’s Santuk district, a community of women aquaculturists is spearheading this movement. Their venture, Boeung Rumpe Fish Processing Women Handicraft, based in Chambok village, is poised to deliver quality fish products to supermarkets across the region, following strict hygiene standards.
“The Boeung Rumpe Fish Processing Women Handicraft was later established in 2018, coordinated by the Agriculture Services Programme for Innovation, Resilience and Extension (ASPIRE) project,” recalled Tun Yin, chairman of Boeung Rumpe community.
He said SPIRE has provided crucial training on hygienic fish processing, helping to ensure quality, affordability, and longevity.
Boasting a team of 50 specialists, all of whom specialise in hygienic fish processing, Boeung Rumpe is particularly focused on processing various types of catfish.
Yin added: “Our fish comes from two sources: wild river fish and farmed fish purchased from local farmers. Due to our current lack of breeding capability, provincial government projects, such as the provincial fisheries administration’s fish project, supplement our supply”.
“Our community guarantees that our processed fish is 100 per cent free of chemicals,” Yin confidently stated.
However, their challenge lies in securing a regular market. Currently, the output is modest, selling only about 150kg of processed fish per month through various outlets across provinces and in the capital, Phnom Penh.
The chairman sees potential in supermarket orders and invites businesses to help expand their reach.
“Our products are open for order from supermarkets or marts in Phnom Penh,” said Yin.
During a visit to the community on June 27, Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, encouraged the aquaculturists to expand their fish processing capacity.
Impressed by the product quality, Tina expressed appreciation for the taste, packaging, and storage of the finished products.
The minister also facilitated discussions with the aquaculturists and suppliers to explore possibilities for growth.
As a response to their expressed needs for capital, market access, and trademark registration, Tina promised immediate action, offering a glimmer of hope for the future of Cambodia’s aquaculture sector.
