Prime Minister Hun Manet held discussions with South Korean Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Chung Hwang-keun on August 28, urging increased investment, particularly in Cambodia’s agricultural sector to boost international commerce.

Manet and Chung emphasised bilateral cooperation in farming and other sectors during their meeting, as the latter paid a visit to Cambodia from August 26 to 28, according to an official press release.

Manet expressed gratitude for Korea’s support to the Kingdom’s migrant workers and backed Busan’s bid for the 2030 World Expo.

He also agreed to strengthen and expand cooperation between the countries.

Chung expressed confidence in the Kingdom’s new leadership and the potential of Cambodia due to its natural resources and demographic factors, highlighting the prospects for overall sectoral growth, according to the release.

During his visit, Chung also had a separate meeting with Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina, who recalled how Cambodia transformed from a food-scarce nation into one that not only ensures its own food security but also exports agricultural products. Tina also lauded Korea’s assistance in farm-based industries.

Hun Lak, CEO of Rich Farm Asia Ltd, told The Post on August 29 that the Cambodia-Korea Free Trade Agreement is of vital importance in bolstering the economy through foreign agribusiness transactions.

Despite limited mango exports to Korea due to previously strict conditions, the agriculture ministry is encouraging farmers of the tropical fruit to obtain Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) certification for broader international business.

Lak anticipated an uptick in outbound trade to Korea following bilateral agreements.