On March 27, Mr. Zhang Guoqing, Director of WFA’s International Cooperation Division, led a Chinese team to the Cambodia Rice Federation (CRF) to explore prospective possibilities for rice sector growth. The visit marked a big step forward in China-Cambodia agricultural cooperation. It was also an excellent chance to investigate strategies to improve the long-term growth and international competitiveness of agriculture in both nations. Both sides were able to negotiate several agreements on how to collaborate and expand the rice business, which should pave the way for a new age of agricultural prosperity.

Zhang Guoqing held a cordial meeting with Chan Sokheang, president of CRF. Chan Sokheang warmly welcomed the delegation and provided a detailed overview of Cambodia's rice business, including its current state, issues, and future strategic plan. He stated that the Cambodian rice industry has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years because of multiple factors such as climate change, demand for low carbon emissions, agro-ecosystem protection, shifting consumption patterns of healthy food and the global food crisis.

Nonetheless, the Cambodian government has developed a rice market expansion and diversification strategy for 2024-2030. According to Chan Sokheang, the approach aims to boost rice exports and supply in the worldwide market while increasing peasants’ income. He emphasized that the Cambodian government places a high value on agricultural growth and, with an international vision of openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit, hopes to strengthen agricultural cooperation with countries all over the world.

Zhang Guoqing praised the Cambodian government's initiative and gave a detailed introduction of WFA's purpose and mission, as well as the results of its cooperation with agriculture-related firms. He emphasized that WFA is committed to serving peasants, enhancing the quality and production of agricultural goods, and helping peasants increase their income and wealth through cooperation in technology, capital, and talent training. Meanwhile, he noted that China and Cambodia have a wide range of agricultural cooperation opportunities, and he hoped to increase communication and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides to jointly develop agricultural prosperity.

During the talks, both sides held in-depth exchanges on personnel systems, finance sources, and work operations. They agreed that boosting personnel training, improving rice quality, and optimizing warehousing and logistics are critical areas for cooperation. The two sides reached a series of consensus, including jointly carrying out rice quality improvement projects, strengthening exchanges and co-operation in rice production technology, and promoting the diversification of the rice market. This consensus will give significant support for comprehensive cooperation between China and Cambodia's rice industries, as well as drive the two countries' agriculture to a greater level of growth.

Lin Weimin, director of WFA's Project Management Division, Shi Xudong, deputy director of the Publicity Division, Cheng Renyong, assistant to director of the General Administration Division, et al., took part in the above activities.