UNIDO and EU support post-harvest fishery value chain upgrading in Cambodia

UNIDO- European Union (EU) flagship CAPFish project in Cambodia awarded the support to 17 enterprises in post-harvest fishery value chain, worth USD 550,000 in equipment and USD 150,000 in technical assistance on business development, food safety and market linkages. The awards under the CAPFish Value Chain Investment Support (VCIS) scheme, were handed over by Veng Sakhon, Minister of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries of Cambodia. Over 100 participants attended the event.

Speaking on the award ceremony, Dejene Tezera, UNIDO’s Director of Department of Agri-Business, stated “This intervention is very important now, as we are witnessing the COVID-19 implications. At UNIDO, we are adapting and tailoring integrated service packages to the specific needs of private sector enterprises leading to the recovery and transformation towards stronger, inclusive, and sustainable development”.

This is only the first batch out of a total of 39 lead enterprises and over 400 associated value chain partners that will be supported under this scheme. The enterprises were selected through a transparent and participatory process. In addition to support to upgrade their businesses, they will be coached towards reaching various food safety standards and certifications. The focus will be on Cambodia Quality Seal (CQS) certificate, established by Cambodian authorities, and based on the scheme developed and supported by the CAPFish project. CQS aims to create a brand image for Cambodian fish and fishery products, ensuring quality and safety compliance among the certified enterprises. The supported enterprises will upgrade their businesses and food safety systems, with the ultimate goal to reach regional and global markets, including the European Union.

For further information contact Ali Badarneh (A.Badarneh [at] unido.org (A[dot]Badarneh[at]unido[dot]org)).