Banana exports from Cambodia have been underway since May when its bananas gained approval for direct export to China. Mr. Li Chengliang, General Manager of Fudi Agriculture Center commented on the performance of Cambodian banana exports to China and market expectations.
“The weather in Cambodia has been good this year. Although the rain did not fall at all during the dry season, our center is located next to the Sesan II Hydropower Station, so we can guarantee sufficient water supply throughout the year, to avoid adverse effects on our production. Our center produced the first bananas in May this year. As of now, the monthly export volume has been increasing. It is estimated that the total export volume will reach around 200 containers this quarter.”
When talking about the market price of Cambodian bananas, Mr. Li said, “Global banana pricing is relatively transparent, based on the grade. Fruit with better quality fetches higher prices. Up till now, the prices of our exported fruit have been slightly higher than those grown in China locally.”
After Cambodian bananas were approved for direct trade with China, five plantations in this country were registered, the Fudi growing center located in the province of Stung Treng, Cambodia being one of them. “We have 3 seasons every 2 years, and the fruit can be supplied throughout the year. Many growing centers here are newly developed, so the soil is fertile without chemical damage. In addition to the warm climate and large temperature difference between day and night, the fruit is generally of premium quality, with faster development of sugar content and smooth surface,” Manager Li introduced.
When talking about the impact of Cambodian banana imports on the local banana market, Manager Li said, “Land destruction has led to a rapid decline in the acreages devoted to bananas in China. With the improvement of the consumption level and the pursuit of diversity, in recent years, bananas from increasingly more countries are pouring into the China market. Cambodian bananas are mostly premium products, mainly supplied to high-end markets. As banana is a staple fruit, the demand for Cambodian bananas in the China market will increase. I’m very optimistic about the prospects.”
Regarding opportunities and challenges, Manager Li said, “Whether it is Cambodia allowing direct trade to China, or Chinese agricultural resources flowing into Cambodia, the strong support of the two governments brings international opportunities for planting and exporters. The challenge we face is the long training period for our employees. Although Cambodia has a large labor force, it is not technology savvy, and it would take 1-1.5 years to train a planter."
The total area of the Fudi Agriculture Centre is more than 100,000 mu. Currently, acreages being in production have been increased by more than 6,000 mu. The center provides planting and export services for banana enterprises in China in forms of planting on their behalf and field rental.
More information:
Contact: Li Chengliang (General Manager)
Company: Fudi Agriculture Center
Telephone (Name number as WeChat ID): +86 191 8712 9257