In a move to deepen economic ties and explore agricultural advancements, the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) is set to embark on a three-day tour of Battambang province this February, seeking insights into the region’s food production chain and uncovering untapped investment opportunities.

Phou Veasna, president of the Battambang Chamber of Commerce (BCC), stated on January 7 that the February 14-16 visit aims to expand the network of distributors for potential products, including agricultural and food production, nationwide.

The CCC will pick 25 individuals to join the excursion, set to visit Baitang (Kampuchea) Plc, Heng Channy Angkor Meas Co Ltd, the Natural Fish Nem (soft fish) Community and various tourist destinations, including Ek Phnom Temple.

“We organised the programme to foster connections between investors in the province and those from other provinces, to understand what Battambang has to offer. The visit is also an opportunity for participants to explore additional distribution channels for products in the province,” Veasna explained.

He noted that meetings with the provincial administration, business-to-business (B2B) companies and enterprises in the province are also part of the itinerary.

“This is an opportunity for BCC to unlock the potential of the province to other provinces. Increasing distribution partners within and beyond the province can significantly boost production and processing,” he added.

At the Khmer Food Fair held in the province recently, a significant milestone was celebrated as Battambang became the first Cambodian town to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in October 2023, recognised for its distinctive culinary contributions.

Provincial governor Sok Lou noted the province’s vast potential in various crops, as well as in agro-industry and other products.

“Battambang is a province renowned for attracting tourists and both local and foreign investors interested in conducting business. Our focus is on coordinating, attracting and organising better infrastructure to promote economic development and enhance the income of our residents,” he said.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries reported that in 2023, the province harvested over 4.5 million tonnes of rice, industrial and cultivar crops, an increase of nearly 270,000 tonnes over 2022.