PHNOM PENH: Cambodia has achieved a significant milestone in its agricultural sector, successfully exporting the first batch of premium cashew nuts to China’s Henan province. This inaugural shipment is part of a larger 200-ton annual purchase order.

The event was marked by a ceremony at Phnom Penh International Airport, attended by high-level officials from both Cambodia and China. Notable figures included H.E. Ngin Chhay, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries; Mr. Li Xiaobin, Chairman of Jian Yu Zhuo Heng Trading Co., Ltd.; and H.E. Hu Jun, Vice Mayor of Zhengzhou Municipal People’s Government of Henan Province.

Following this initial shipment, Cambodia will continue to export cashew nuts to Henan province weekly. This marks a significant expansion of Cambodia’s cashew trade with China, as previous exports have primarily focused on other regions.

H.E. Ngin Chhay expressed optimism about the potential for further growth in agricultural trade between the two countries. He emphasized the economic benefits of cashew nut exports, which can provide a substantial source of income for local farmers and processors.

Beyond China, Cambodia is actively working to expand its cashew nut exports to other markets, including the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and the European Union.

In the first eight months of 2024, Cambodia exported a total of 560,000 tonnes of cashew nuts to international markets. The country’s National Cashew Policy 2022-2027 aims to position Cambodia as a global leader in cashew nut production and export.

Currently, Cambodia utilizes over 580,000 hectares of land for cashew cultivation, with an average yield of approximately 1.5 tonnes per hectare.