Cambodian Farmers in Angkor Thom District Prioritize Pig Breeding for Higher Profits

In Angkor Thom district, Siem Reap province, Cambodia, farmers are increasingly focusing on breeding sows for piglets, finding it more profitable than solely raising pigs for meat. Hen Gau (pseudonym), a farmer residing in the district, has been engaged in family-based pig farming for many years and currently raises seven breeding sows and twelve fattening pigs. Gau explained that raising pigs for meat is relatively easy and requires less labor, but it involves significant capital expenditure for purchasing factory-made feed. In contrast, breeding sows, while requiring more effort in preparing feed from sources like banana stems, pumpkins, and kitchen waste, significantly reduces initial costs. The process involves a gestation period of approximately four months, and piglets are ready for sale about a month after birth. For farmers who engage in pig farming as a secondary occupation during the agricultural off-season, selling piglets yields higher profits compared to selling fattening pigs. This approach allows farmers to balance cost reduction with profit maximization, making it an attractive option.