In the first 11 months of 2023, Cambodia encountered a substantial drop of nearly 24% in fresh banana exports, totaling over 260,000 tonnes compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. China continues to be the primary market, absorbing around 95% of the exports, while smaller quantities are directed to Vietnam and Japan. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries attributes this decline to the ongoing global economic downturn, resulting in disrupted international trade flows and diminished orders for various commodities.
According to the National Phytosanitary Database (NPD), Cambodia's fresh banana exports from January to November 2023 amounted to 263,117 tonnes, signifying a 23.84% decrease from the 345,470 tonnes recorded during the same timeframe in 2022. Specifically, in November, Cambodia exported 25,125 tonnes of bananas, with China, Vietnam, and Japan being the primary recipients.
Hun Lak, the CEO of Longmate Agriculture Co Ltd, a key player in banana cultivation in Kampot province, identified adverse weather conditions leading to pest infestations and a decline in international market prices from October 2023 as contributing factors to the decrease. Despite these challenges, Lak remains optimistic, pointing to positive sales trends since November.
China became the inaugural destination for Cambodian bananas in May 2019, marking a significant milestone. In response to the export challenges, Kampot authorities are intensifying efforts to support agricultural cultivation, particularly the expansion of banana cultivation, with an aim to enhance domestic supply, spur export growth, and uplift local communities by creating additional job opportunities. In 2022, Cambodia exported 367,400 tonnes of fresh bananas, with the majority destined for China, followed by Vietnam and Japan, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture.
Source: www.phnompenhpost.com