Cambodian pepper production falls, prices rise

In 2024, Cambodia has seen a significant increase in pepper prices, reaching $6,000 per ton, a surge of $3,000 from the previous year, alongside a 50% reduction in pepper cultivation areas due to adverse weather, pests, and diseases. The Cambodia Pepper and Spice Federation (CPSF) is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with relevant departments to understand the causes of the decline. Vietnam remains the primary buyer of Cambodian pepper, accounting for over 90% of exports. In November 2023, Cambodia and China signed an agreement for direct pepper exports to China. Additionally, the CPSF is exploring entry into the Middle East, North Africa, and US markets, focusing on Kampot pepper for the EU and non-GI pepper for other markets.

Mak Ny, chairman of the Cambodia Pepper and Spice Federation (CPSF), said that since the beginning of 2024, pepper prices have risen sharply to $6,000 per ton, up about $3,000 per ton from last year, but the area of pepper cultivation has fallen by 50%. The decline in pepper cultivation area may be due to recent adverse weather conditions, pests and diseases. CPSF said it is closely monitoring developments and working with relevant departments to find out the root causes of the decline in planting area. Vietnam is the largest buyer of Cambodian pepper, accounting for more than 90% of Cambodia's total pepper exports. In November 2023, Cambodia and China signed a memorandum of understanding on pepper exports, paving the way for Cambodian pepper to be shipped directly to China. CPSF is also looking to enter the Middle East, ...