BATTAMBANG, Cambodia, June 21 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian rice farmer Roeu Chamroeun said that Chinese consumers' purchases of locally produced rice help stabilize prices and improve rural farmers' livelihoods.
The 58-year-old farmer, who grows Phka Romduol and Phka Malis fragrant rice varieties on her farmland in northwest Cambodia's Banan district, said that China's rice purchases have secured a stable income for her family and fellow farmers.
Both Phka Romduol and Phka Malis are premium, award-winning long-grain fragrant rice varieties known for their natural aroma, soft texture, and exquisite flavor.
Chamroeun harvests over 50 tonnes of paddy rice annually from her 9.5-hectare farm. She noted that her crop is grown naturally without chemicals, giving it a fragrant and delicious flavor.
"I'm glad that China purchases rice from Cambodia, creating a strong market for Cambodian rice and helping farmers to have better livelihoods," she told Xinhua in a recent interview.
Suom Mom, another 58-year-old rice farmer in Banan district of Battambang province, said he is very pleased that Cambodian rice has established a strong market in China.
Taing Sokchamroeun, a 36-year-old supervisor of production and quality at the Taing Eanghuot Rice Mill in Battambang province, said the facility mills an average of 30 tonnes of rice per day.
"We supply rice domestically and have recently expanded our exports to China," he told Xinhua. "Our rice is delicious and fragrant, with its hygiene standards certified by HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point), so consumers can trust both safety and flavor."
Lay Chhun Hour, president of the Cambodia Rice Federation, said that China is the top buyer of Cambodian milled rice.
"China is a crucial, high-value market for Cambodian rice, especially premium fragrant rice varieties, driving significant revenue and growth for the sector," he told Xinhua.
A single purchase
