Cambodian Cashew Nuts Debut at China-ASEAN Expo

Cashew nuts under the 'Mitt Damrei' brand, produced in Cambodia's Ratanakiri province, have been showcased for the first time at the China-ASEAN Expo held in Nanning, China. This initiative, spearheaded by NatureLife Cambodia, promotes cashew nut production as a forest-friendly product, aiming to boost farmers' incomes and create employment opportunities for women. The featured cashew nuts are produced by the 'Jay Udom' natural cashew nut community in Lumphat district, Ratanakiri province. The expo, running from September 17 to 21, serves as a platform to foster economic cooperation and trade between ASEAN and China, offering an opportunity to enhance the international recognition of Cambodian agricultural products. 'Mitt Damrei' is produced by farmers practicing sustainable forest management, positioning the product as 'forest-friendly.' This initiative is expected to serve as a model for balancing environmental conservation with the economic self-reliance of local communities, extending beyond mere agricultural sales. Currently, 'Mitt Damrei' cashew nuts are available in select supermarkets in the capital, Phnom Penh, and Ratanakiri province. They can also be ordered online via the Grab app, part of a strategy to expand access and increase brand awareness among both domestic and international consumers. This participation in the expo reflects Cambodia's efforts to diversify its agricultural export markets and strengthen access, particularly to the large Chinese market. It also marks a significant step in deepening cooperation with other ASEAN nations.