The Cambodian longan market has experienced substantial growth, with exports in 2023 reaching over 17,000 tons, a nearly 500% increase from 2022, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
Phot Saphanborey, head of longan processing and export at Pechenda Fruit Production PFP Co Ltd, attributes this growth to favourable climate conditions, expanded cultivated land and improved techniques. The majority of Cambodia's fresh longan is exported to China, Thailand and Vietnam. Dried longan is exported to China, Thailand and the Middle East.
Saphanborey also highlighted the strong collaboration between plantation owners, processing plants, and packaging companies as a factor in the growth of the Cambodian longan export market in 2023.
Despite the positive growth, Saphanborey noted challenges including weather factors, rising transportation costs, labour shortages during harvest and packing periods, and legal requirements for exports to certain countries.
The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has also warned that temperatures may fluctuate sharply until May, potentially affecting the 2024 longan yield. As a result, the ministry has called for collaboration to ensure the efficient use of water, especially in remote rural areas far from water sources.
Source: www.phnompenhpost.com