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Cambodia, with 70% of its population living in rural areas, is deeply rooted in agriculture. The latter represents approximately 35% of gross domestic product (GDP) and remains a fundamental pillar for food security and the country’s economy. Through the reports of the FAO, a light is shed on the potentials and challenges of Cambodian agriculture, highlighting a diversified production ranging from food crops to fishery products. However, despite these riches, major challenges persist, such as a low technological level and inadequate infrastructure. FAO’s analysis allows us to better understand this agricultural reality, its challenges and the future prospects that are emerging.
In the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia is distinguished by its large rural areas which are home to approximately 70% of the population, a majority of which is dedicated toagriculture. Based on reports from the FAO, this article explores the characteristics, challenges and opportunities of Cambodia’s agricultural sector, which remains a key driver of the national economy, accounting for approximately 35% of gross domestic product (GDP).
An economy in the making
Cambodia, recognized as a developing countries, is moving towards middle-income economy status, thanks to dynamic sectors such as clothing, construction and tourism. However, theagriculture remains a fundamental pillar of its economy, being a key sector for poverty reduction and the fight against malnutrition.
The abundance of natural resources, including fertile land and favorable climate, offers considerable opportunity to increase agricultural production. This is a potential that, if harnessed, could transform the living conditions of many Cambodians.
Varied productions
According to the FAO, theCambodian agriculture is diversified, encompassing several essential sub-sectors. THE crops dominate, representing around 54% of agricultural GDP, followed by fishing (25%), thebreeding (15%) and forestry (6%).
The culture of rice, although it is practiced on areas that are still poorly irrigated, continues to grow, allowing Cambodia to become self-sufficient and even to export this essential product. At the same time, varied food crops such as but, THE soy and other tropical fruits are also an integral part of the agricultural landscape.
In addition, cash crops such as the sugar cane, THE rubber, and thepalm oil are expanding, demonstrating the country’s capacity to diversify its production.
Fishing, a vital resource
Another pillar of the Cambodian diet is fishing. Aquatic ecosystems such as Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River provide a vital amount of fish, not only for daily meals, but also for the income of millions of families.
In contrast, livestock breeding in Cambodia is generally focused on small livestock, such as pigs and chickens, often raised on a domestic scale for local consumption.
Challenges to overcome
Despite its potential, theCambodian agriculture faces many challenges that hinder its sustainable development. Among these, the FAO pointed out:
- A low technological level
- Of the limited agricultural skills
- Insufficient use of modern seeds andfertilizer
- A poor soil management
- The lack ofadequate infrastructure, particularly in irrigation
- Of the underdeveloped trade networks
- L’limited access to rural credit
- Of the inefficient post-harvest processes
- A unsustainable management of natural resources
- A increased vulnerability facing climate change
- Of the precarious social conditions isolating rural populations
- A high illiteracy rate
To face these challenges, FAO, in collaboration with partner organizations such as AFD, is committed to supporting the Cambodian government in the effort toeradicate hunger andimprove food security holistically.
FAQ on agriculture in Cambodia according to FAO perspectives
What is the role of agriculture in the Cambodian economy? Agriculture represents approximately 35% of gross domestic product (GDP) and employs the majority of the population, playing a key role in the fight against poverty and food security.
What are the main crops in Cambodia? Crops occupy the first place in the agricultural sector, the main ones being rice, followed by food crops such as but, THE soy and various fruits such as mango and the durian.
How does Cambodia manage its rice production? Although the culture of rice is still poorly irrigated (only 8%), its production is increasing regularly, allowing Cambodia to meet its needs and export part of its harvest.
Why is fishing important in Cambodia? Fishing, practiced mainly in the Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong, is a staple food and contributes to the food security and income of millions of people.
What challenges does Cambodian agriculture face? Challenges include low technological level, limited agricultural skills, insufficient use of modern seeds andfertilizer, as well as limited access to rural credit.
How are organizations like FAO helping Cambodia? FAO and other agencies are helping the Cambodian government improve food safety and the nutrition in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable manner.