AKP Phnom Penh, June 23, 2025 --

Despite the ongoing closure of the Cambodia-Thailand border, Battambang province is successfully maintaining a robust supply of fruits and vegetables, with local markets reporting no significant shortages.

Since the border's closure, the flow of agricultural imports from Thailand has ceased. However, vendors at Phou Puy vegetable market in Battambang city confirm that locally grown, organic produce is readily meeting consumer demand. This self-sufficiency is thanks to Cambodian farmers, domestic farms, and agricultural cooperatives.

Many traders at Phou Puy market now exclusively stock local goods. Their stalls are filled with fresh durians, mangoes, bananas, Chinese kale, spring onions, papayas, tomatoes, chili peppers, cabbages, cucumbers, red basil, holy basil, and pumpkins, all harvested from various districts across Battambang.

Mr. Sorn Makara, a wholesale vegetable vendor at the market, expressed strong approval for the import restrictions. "If the Royal Government continues limiting imports, it will greatly benefit our Cambodian farmers," he stated. "We have enough local produce to supply our population, and more consumers are turning to local, chemical-free products at affordable prices."

Ms. Kuon Chanserey, a wholesaler from Phnom Penh's Neak Meas Market, has also adapted to the change. She previously relied on Thai imports via the Poipet border but now sources a significant volume of vegetables directly from Battambang. "The prices are more affordable than Thai imports," she noted.

"Although the packaging lacks polish, the quality is good and chemical-free."

Both wholesalers and farmers have lauded the proactive measures taken by Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet in response to Thailand's unilateral border closure.

These efforts have ensured that Battambang residents currently enjoy stable, safe, and sufficient access to locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Article in Khmer by Sophal
Article in English by K. Rithy Reak