Plan to certify organic quality
GIZ Cambodia, a branch of Germany’s international development agency, signed an agreement on September 15 with local organic food retailer Khmer Organic Cooperative to provide technical support to develop organic vegetable production and to assist the firm in obtaining certification for its products. The agreement calls for the establishment of two demonstration farms for organic fruits and vegetables that will later be used as a national organic training centre. It also aims to strengthen regional market linkages, establish local organic supply networks and raise consumer awareness. Market experts say the partnership will benefit Cambodia’s market as demand for organic food products is increasing, but growth has been subdued by the absence of an institution to guarantee that products bearing the organic designation are standardised.
