UNIDO supports post-harvest fisheries development in Cambodia

On 2 February 2023, UNIDO, as part of the Cambodia Programme for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in the Fisheries Sector: Capture component (CaPFish Capture), co-funded by the EU and implemented by UNIDO, organized a field visit for high-level delegation from the EU Directorate General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA) to two beneficiary enterprises in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Visit was aimed to learn about the progress of the CAPFish implementation and its support to the enterprises. The DG INTPA representatives are in the country to make strategic decisions on the new EU programming period (2021-2027).

CAPFish team briefed the EU delegates on the project activities and achievements, focusing on establishment of a voluntary certification scheme - Cambodia Quality Seal (CQS) - and implementation of the Value Chain Investment Support (VCIS). The VCIS supports the enterprises along the fishery value chain to upgrade their operations, increase productivity, and advance food safety practices, thus improving competitiveness and access to markets, including EU. Following a transparent process, so far around 1 million EUR was awarded to 39 enterprises, through equipment and technical assistance provision, leveraging additional EUR 1.2 million investment from the private sector. The positive effects of the support will be felt in 400+ additional enterprises along the value chain, helping to either retain or create around 450 jobs.

Enterprises showcased CAPFish support and their own achievements in terms of upgraded facilities, improved hygiene and food safety practices, increased sales, higher product prices, and new market opportunities. They highlighted the key role of the CQS in private sector development and access to new markets. CQS aims to create a brand image for Cambodian fishery products, ensuring quality and safety compliance among the certified enterprises.

For further information contact Shetty Seetharama Thombathu (T.SHETTY [at] unido.org (T[dot]SHETTY[at]unido[dot]org)).