On September 3, 2024, Mr. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, continued his provincial tour with visits to the departments in Stung Treng and Kratie. During the visits, he urged the provincial departments to focus on supporting market catalysts that can benefit various stakeholders and boost local economies.

Minister Vanndy cited ice factories as catalysts, stating that producing, packaging and handling ice according to standards are essential for both consumer safety and the cold chain that can maximize the provinces' fishery and agriculture potential.

Located along the Mekong River, these two provinces are rich in fishery and agriculatural resources. The Minister said, “Maintaining a robust cold chain helps reduce spoilage, ensuring that aquatic and other agricultural products can reach markets at their peak quality. This, in turn, enhances the marketability of these products and strengthens the economic potential of both provinces.”

In Kratie, where over 700 local small businesses are engaged in rice liquor production, Minister Vanndy advised the provincial department to form a community to support these producers in meeting the national standards for rice liquors newly approved by the National Standards Council.

He added, “By complying with these standards, Cambodian rice liquors could gain a competitive edge in both domestic and international markets. This community could also serve as another catalyst, supporting farmers and promoting processing of value-added by-products.”

The Minister urged provincial departments to strengthen support for these market catalysts by improving public services to help them meet internationally recognized standards and expand access to regional and global markets. He added that MISTI is reviewing policies, aimed at reducing costs of production for these catalysts, thereby supporting local businesses and enhancing the broader economy.