AKP Phnom Penh, March 20, 2026 --

The Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF) and the representative office of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) in New Zealand have formed a partnership to promote Cambodian rice trade.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two parties was signed on Mar. 20 in Auckland, under the witness of H.E. Kao Thach, Royal Government Delegate in charge and Director General of the Agricultural and Rural Development Bank (ARDB).

The MoU aims to boost Cambodian rice exports to the New Zealand market, while establishing a framework for market information exchange and business connections between traders of both countries.

H.E. Kao Thach welcomed the initiative, noting that the agreement will contribute to the development of Cambodia’s rice sector and enhance the country’s image on the international stage.

He added that the partnership will serve as a strong bridge for investors and a gateway for Cambodian agricultural products to enter the New Zealand market.

Furthermore, he stressed that expanding international markets is essential not only for increasing exports but also for improving farmers’ livelihoods through value addition and stable market access.

The initiative reflects the Royal Government of Cambodia’s commitment to diversifying export markets and ensuring that international trade continues to support local agricultural development.

In 2025, Cambodia exported 940,321 tonnes of milled rice to 75 international markets, marking a 45 percent year-on-year increase and generating approximately US$602 million in revenue.

The growth was driven mainly by demand from China, the European Union, and ASEAN countries, with fragrant rice varieties accounting for the majority of exports.

By Chea Vannak