Kazakhstan and Cambodia Discuss Expansion of Agricultural Trade

Kazakhstan and Cambodia are exploring opportunities to increase bilateral trade in agricultural products, expand export shipments, and implement joint initiatives in processing and investment. The prospects for bilateral cooperation were discussed by Kazakhstan's Minister of Agriculture, Aidarbek Saparov, and Cambodia's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Dith Tina.

During the negotiations, Aidarbek Saparov emphasized Kazakhstan's interest in developing agricultural cooperation. According to the minister, the country has the necessary raw material resources and production capacity to increase exports of grain and meat products. Expanding into new markets, strengthening trade relations, and promoting mutually beneficial projects remain key priorities.

Particular attention was paid to the prospects for grain trade. Kazakhstan continues to maintain substantial export potential in this segment. The country's total grain harvest has exceeded 27 million tonnes for two consecutive years.

At the end of the previous marketing year, Kazakhstan exported 15.3 million tonnes of grain, representing a 70% increase compared with the corresponding preceding period. This was the highest export volume recorded in the past 20 years.

Taking into account its existing production capacity, the Kazakh side proposed exploring the possibility of organizing wheat shipments to the Cambodian market. This initiative would be assessed with consideration for demand from importers, grain quality requirements, and transportation logistics.

Another topic of discussion was the development of meat exports. Representatives of the two countries considered opportunities to supply Kazakh beef and mutton, including products that meet halal standards.

Cambodia's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Dith Tina, confirmed his country's interest in increasing purchases of agricultural products from Kazakhstan. In particular, the discussions covered imports of apples and meat. The participants also identified opportunities to expand trade cooperation in fish farming.

The Cambodian side also proposed continuing work in the areas identified during the negotiations and formalizing the agreements reached through a memorandum of cooperation. According to Dith Tina, the meeting demonstrated opportunities for further development of bilateral trade in agricultural products.

To organize further joint efforts, Aidarbek Saparov proposed establishing a bilateral working group. Its responsibilities would include coordinating the terms of mutual deliveries, examining market access issues for agricultural products in Kazakhstan and Cambodia, and facilitating direct business contacts between producers and importers.

In addition, the working group would study opportunities to implement joint projects in agricultural raw material processing and investment attraction.

Following the negotiations, representatives of Kazakhstan and Cambodia confirmed their intention to continue cooperation in the agreed areas. The main focus will be on expanding agricultural trade and taking practical steps to develop joint initiatives.