Cambodia's SMEs Improved Food Safety Practices Towards Cambodia Quality Seal (CQS) Requirements

Eight fishery processing enterprises in Cambodia have earned the prestigious Cambodia Quality Seal (CQS) certificates from the Fisheries Administration (FiA) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF). This certification scheme was initiated under UNIDO's CAPFISH-Capture: Post-harvest Development project, funded by the European Union (EU).

The CQS scheme, led by FiA, stands as the first-ever food safety certification for Cambodia's fisheries sector. Its goal is to elevate the safety and quality of fish and fishery products, fostering sustainable growth in the industry.

The certification extends to various entities within the fisheries value chain, such as fishery processing small and medium enterprises (SMEs), fishing vessels, and collection centers adhering to the set standards. By prioritizing food safety, CQS seeks to boost consumer confidence, facilitate market access, and bolster Cambodia's national brand.

Additional SMEs are undergoing assessment against CQS requirements, ensuring their full food safety compliance. The selected competent enterprises capable of exporting to EU markets will receive further support in establishing food safety management and traceability systems for EU Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG-SANTE) verification in 2024.

The Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Cambodia, Bryan FORNARI, stated that collaborating with the government and private sector to ensure high product standards, including food safety, creates business opportunities and jobs, and safeguards consumers. The EU CAPFISH programme continues to work with the country's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) to enhance food safety compliance, enabling Cambodian fisheries products to reach EU and global markets gradually.

Through CQS certification, Cambodia emerges as a champion in food safety compliance and sustainable fishing practices. This achievement benefits local consumers and elevates international trade prospects.

For more information, please contact Dr. Shetty Seetharama THOMBATHU, CTA T.SHETTY [at] unido.org (T[dot]SHETTY[at]unido[dot]org)