In response to the suspension of imports from Thailand, private companies and local authorities in Cambodia's Preah Vihear province have purchased at least 400 tons of pumpkins, supporting local farmers. The border dispute has hindered the entry of vegetables and other imports, prompting local sales efforts.
Commune agriculture offices in Preah Vihear's Sangkum Thmei and Kulen districts, with support from local authorities and the provincial Department of Commerce, have facilitated market access for farmers in Ro'ang and Phnom Tbeng I communes. As of June 24, 338 tons of pumpkins were sold to several major supermarkets and government institutions, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
Major buyers include Chip Mong Supermarket with 146 tons, E-Gets Company with 52 tons, Aeon Mall with 46 tons, Makro with 28 tons, Samdech Techo Foundation communities with 20 tons, and Vireak Bunthang Company with 15 tons.
Em Theara, a commune agricultural officer in Ro'ang, stated that by June 25, over 400 tons of pumpkins had been sold. "Private companies, supermarkets, and philanthropists are continuing to purchase them for resale or charity purposes. Our goal is to help the farmers. We're buying from them at reasonable prices to ensure they are satisfied," he mentioned.
Theara noted current purchase prices range between 200 to 300 riel per kilogram (approximately $0.05 to $0.07). He mentioned over 2,000 tons of pumpkins remain unsold and stressed the need for additional market channels. "Farmers are transporting their pumpkins using many homemade tractors, but the buyers are limited," he added.
Ohkna Srey Chanthorn purchased over 30 tons of pumpkins for donation, with four tons already delivered to 9NG Amusement Garden for free distribution, according to his social media post. "An additional 30 tons are on the way. Khmer helping Khmer, Support Khmer products," he stated.
In a related event, Prime Minister Hun Manet encouraged the public to support local products and increase domestic production, urging against exploiting the situation by raising prices. "Lately, there's been a movement to support Khmer products. I've seen people post that Chip Mong bought pumpkins from our fellow citizens, there's support through online purchases too. This is the Khmer spirit, Khmer helping Khmer during difficult times," he said.
Senate president Hun Sen urged citizens to buy and donate local produce to frontline soldiers or orphanages, coinciding with the import halt from Thailand, following a border conflict where a Cambodian soldier was killed.
Source: Phnom Penh Post
