AKP Phnom Penh, March 11, 2026 --

Authorities in Cambodia’s Kampong Chhnang province have called on local farmers to prioritise the cultivation of chemical-free vegetables in an effort to improve food safety, expand market opportunities, and enhance rural livelihoods.

Provincial Governor H.E. Sun Sovannarith made the appeal during a visit on Mar. 10 to inspect safe vegetable cultivation in net houses operated by residents who are beneficiaries of a social land concession programme in Sa Ang village, Prasnep commune, Rolea Pa-ir district.

Speaking to farmers during the visit, H.E. Sovannarith emphasised the importance of producing safe vegetables free from chemical residues to ensure food safety for consumers and strengthen confidence in domestically grown produce.

“Chemical-free vegetables play a crucial role in promoting agricultural products that are safe, hygienic, and produced in line with quality standards without posing health risks to consumers,” he said.

He added that the development of markets dedicated to safe vegetables and agricultural products would provide opportunities for farmers, producers, development partners, and relevant stakeholders to exchange experiences and address challenges facing the sector. Such collaboration, he said, would help formulate timely strategies to respond to emerging issues in agricultural production and marketing.

H.E. Sovannarith also noted that the provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, is working to establish a safe-vegetable market where farmers can sell and display a wide range of chemical-free agricultural products. The initiative aims to create additional income opportunities for farmers and improve living standards in local communities.

At the same time, technical training will be expanded for farmers and producers, covering seed selection, proper use of fertilisers and pesticides, and other agricultural practices aligned with recognised technical standards to better meet market demand.

The governor further called for the establishment of larger agricultural development communities to facilitate training, enhance product value, and ensure the sustainable production of high-quality and safe agricultural goods. 

Such efforts, he said, would strengthen competitiveness in domestic markets and support exports while reducing reliance on imported produce from neighbouring countries.

Emphasising the importance of public health, H.E. Sovannarith noted that vegetables are often consumed fresh or raw and therefore require strict attention to safety and quality.

He encouraged residents, civil servants, and traders to support local farmers by purchasing and consuming safe vegetable products for the benefit of public health.

By K. Rithy Reak