Cambodia has established the Cambodian Mango Development Federation (CMDF) to improve the organization, processing, and export capacity of the country's mango sector. The federation brings together farmers, processors, and traders to strengthen coordination and develop strategies for both domestic and international markets.
The CMDF elected its president on October 17 in Siem Reap, during a meeting attended by Va Rutsan, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce. Rutsan noted that challenges persist for mango production, including price declines and limited processing facilities during peak harvest periods. He said that large quantities of mangoes are wasted or used for compost, and that the federation is part of broader efforts to address these inefficiencies.
The federation will assist in implementing national mango policies, updating production and trade data, and promoting Cambodian mangoes through international exhibitions. It will also support producers, exporters, and processing enterprises by improving management structures, developing market strategies, and seeking technical assistance from both local and international partners.
Farmer Siv Mang, who has grown mangoes since 2011, said that falling prices have left many producers struggling to remain profitable. "I'm disappointed and have lost motivation because the price is now really unacceptable. I could not even cover the expenses on staff," said Mang, who manages a 13-hectare farm in Siem Reap province.
He reported that farmgate prices have dropped from over 1,200 riel (US$0.30) per kilogram in earlier years to 300–400 riel (US$0.07–0.10) in 2025. Prices can reach 1,200 riel for fresh export-grade mangoes and 2,000 riel (US$0.50) for packaged fruit sent to neighbouring countries, but cross-border trade with Thailand has slowed due to transport restrictions. Local processing enterprises offer 600–800 riel (US$0.15–0.20) per kilogram, which still leaves little margin.
Mang said that some producers with 20–30 hectares of mangoes are facing similar issues. Many have been unable to sell their harvests and are leaving fruit to rot rather than sell below 300 riel per kilogram, given high input, labour, and transport costs. He added that initiatives to help farmers reach local markets or develop processed products would be well received.
According to Khim Finan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, mango growers continue to face structural challenges such as inadequate processing facilities and limited export channels. He urged producers to form modern agricultural communities to lower production costs and secure markets.
The ministry reported that mango output reached 2.2 million tons in 2024 across about 150,000 hectares, contributing more than US$500 million annually to Cambodia's economy.
Source: Cambodianess
