Investors and officials from Ba Ria-Vung Tau province in Vietnam have expressed interest in exporting Cambodian milled rice to other countries, recognising its growing prominence on the international stage.

Phou Veasna, vice-president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) led a delegation from five Cambodian provinces, including Pailin, Pursat, Banteay Meanchey, Siem Reap and Oddar Meanchey Chambers of Commerce, on a five-day visit to Ba Ria-Vung Tau province from September 28 to October 2.

Speaking to The Post on October 3, Veasna noted that during their discussions with Vietnamese officials, the two parties broached three key areas: exports from Cambodia, including agricultural products, milled and unmilled rice, and cashew nuts; potential collaborations in tourism, health checks in Vietnam, and promoting Cambodian temples; and mutual trade opportunities.

“The Vietnamese officials are keen to introduce Cambodian milled rice to the Ba Ria-Vung Tau market, and subsequently to their international partners, given the rice’s rising global reputation,” Veasna highlighted.

Lor Sun Cheang, president of Pailin Chamber of Commerce, emphasised the purpose of their visit.

He said beyond the main discussions, the Cambodian provincial delegations engaged with 14 Vietnamese enterprises to foster trade relations, understand potential sectors, and establish bilateral ties between investors in both regions.

“Despite Vietnam’s stature as an agricultural product exporter, we sought opportunities to export our produce there. Vietnam acts as a conduit, importing from us and exporting to third countries. This avenue could potentially serve our local farmers and make us a key supplier to Vietnam,” Cheang stated.

According to Vietnamese media sources, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Vietnam’s 38th largest administrative unit, is not only the most populous but also among the most prosperous. It is strategically located near beaches, attracting a significant number of international tourists and investors annually.