Frozen meat import hold will beef up local supply
PRIME Minister Hun Manet has directed the relevant ministries to explore the establishment of a contemporary marketing system, an initiative aimed to boost domestic availability, particularly of frozen meat and offal, to enhance the long-term resilience of the domestic supply chain.
Manet’s proposal was presented during the conclusion of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ annual meeting held on January 30.
“We have previously implemented certain guidelines to halt the importation of some types of frozen meat. For pork, chicken and various other meats, we will impose a six-month suspension starting from March. However, this approach is not a perpetually viable solution. Our goal is to adopt sustainable strategies to ensure the competitiveness of animal husbandry,” he explained.
“While Cambodia temporarily halts the import of frozen offal, I urge the direct connection of buyers with our local farmers. This approach can leverage their freezing techniques. Even in the absence of a ban on importing [these items], such a move could foster a robust market for our internal supply chain,” he added.
The prime minister emphasised the importance of bolstering internal supply, noting that with both production and export markets already wellestablished, it is essential to concentrate on this area.
He said the government is committed to ensuring two key aspects for farmers: firstly, that their products are sold at reasonable prices yielding high profits, and secondly, that there is no inflation in prices.
He noted that efforts are being made to reduce production costs for farmers.
“The Ministry of Commerce disseminates a daily price list. Any goods experiencing a price hike exceeding 20 per cent are considered at risk. Fortunately, although prices may rise today, they typically decrease the following day.
We are hopeful that prices will not continually escalate over a period of one, two or three months,” Manet stated.
Srun Pov, president of the Cambodian Livestock Raisers Association (CLRA), expressed optimism that the government’s recommendations and directives will be effectively implemented, including the measure to temporarily prohibit the import of frozen meat.
“Our farmers and those involved in animal husbandry seek nothing more than stable pricing that is fair for both producers and consumers. The illicit importation of frozen meat into our country adversely affects not only producers but also the health of consumers. Therefore, stringent enforcement is advisable,” he stated.
As per a January 9 joint announcement by the commerce and agriculture ministries, the government has decided to temporarily suspend the import of frozen offal and meat for a six-month period starting March 12.