Banteay Meanchey provincial governor Oum Reatrey (centre) attends the One Village, One Product event held in Poipet town on September 8-10. OVOP COMMITTEE
The One Village One Product Movement and partners have hosted a three-day forum in Banteay Meanchey province, featuring domestic product exhibitions and discussions between producers and buyers.
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The forum took place September 8 to 10 at the Big C Supermarket in Poipet town. This event was a collaborative effort involving the One Village One Product Movement, Khmer Enterprise (KE), and OXFAM Cambodia.
A joint press release stated that the project aimed to foster opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) while emphasising the promotion of an inclusive and sustainable domestic economy.
Its primary objectives included creating opportunities for SMEs and domestic producers to engage with potential buyers in constructive discussions regarding supply conditions and market demands.
The press release stated that the forum had provided participants with the opportunity to connect with local authorities, relevant governmental bodies, NGOs, financial institutions, and youth.
This platform also aimed to facilitate the provision of technical support and resources needed to aid in the development of their businesses.
Shoung Noy, deputy secretary-general of the national committee for the promotion of the One Village, One Product initiative, also expressed the enthusiasm of the Phnom Penh and provincial committees of the initiative.
Noy mentioned that they are eager to initiate this meeting with the aim of bridging the gaps between producers and potential buyers in an efficient and transparent manner.
“This event had enabled them to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s experiences, introduce producers to markets, and address issues with relevant institutions when it comes to registering laws or legal documents. It also serves to promote trade opportunities,” he detailed.
He said the event made a contribution to the economic growth of the province and the nation as a whole, ultimately enhancing the livelihoods of local communities.
Chhieng Van Munin, the CEO of KE, an implementation unit of Entrepreneurship Development Fund, said that there has been a notable increase in support and awareness for domestic products recently. However, he emphasised the need to continue promoting products and seeking out additional markets.
“Therefore, we are pleased to collaborate with the national committee for the promotion of One Village, One Product to establish this forum, which connects producers with buyers, fostering increased sales and the promotion of domestic products,” he said.
“This aligns with Khmer Enterprise’s guiding principle to expand markets for Cambodian producers, both domestically and internationally,” he added.
Phean Sophoan, country director of OXFAM in Cambodia, expressed pride in collaborating with government partners to organise this forum.
“This collaboration underscores our dedication to enhancing opportunities for domestic producers and SMEs, enabling them to access markets, boost income, and contribute to inclusive development. Such growth will also play a role in reducing poverty,” she added.
The event brought together approximately 200 participants, including leaders and representatives from relevant government departments, business associations, SMEs, agricultural cooperatives, financial institutions, civil society organisations and youth.
The project was initiated in 2022 by the national committee for the promotion of One Village, One Product and Oxfam in Cambodia.
This year, the organisation has planned to host or has already hosted similar forums in Siem Reap, Kampong Chhnang, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Kampong Cham, Oddar Meanchey, Kandal, Kampot, Koh Kong, Pursat, Kampong Thom, Tbong Khmum, Stung Treng, Kampong Speu, and Svay Rieng provinces.
