Phnom Penh: In what is being seen as a boost for agricultural production in the kingdom, the U.S Agency for International Development, USAID, has initiated a $3-million cold-chain logistics system. The initiative was shared by the outgoing USAID-Cambodia Mission Director, Ms. Veena Reddy, during a farewell courtesy visit to Cambodia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Mr. Veng Sakhon.

Ms. Veena Reddy says the $3-million project will be solar-powered and will boost the production of fruit and vegetables, as well as meat and fish in Cambodia. A cold-chain logistics system means that Cambodia’s fresh produce can be stored and transported at much cooler temperatures, ensuring that fresher produce reaches consumers.

The Minister expressed his support, welcoming news of the project, saying that it will improve the efficiency of production, as well as packaging and transportation, and take Cambodia’s supply chain to an international standard. Mr. Veng Sakhon thanked the government and people of the United States for their assistance.

He said, “All USAID’s projects and programs have been making a significant contribution to the development of Cambodia's agricultural sector, ensuring food security, increasing incomes, improved living standards and increased production.” He went onto say that “Sustainability through the application of appropriate modern technology, resilience to climate change, environmental management and innovation will help the Royal Government achieve its goal of becoming an essential global agricultural exporter.”

The outgoing mission director assured the Minister that assistance from USAID will continue to contribute to promoting agricultural development in the country.