PHNOM PENH, September 9, 2024 — On September 8, 2024, Dr. Kao Thach, representing the Royal Government as the Director General of the Bank for Rural Development and Agriculture (ARDB), visited Chhit Bunthon Rice Mill in Krachap village, Prey Khla commune, Svay Antor district, Prey Veng province to observe the harvest of the rice variety OM 5451.

During his visit, Dr. Thach lauded the efforts of Mr. Chhit Bunthon, whose pilot project in rice cultivation has yielded impressive results. The farmers reported an average yield of 7.5 tons per hectare. After covering costs, profits ranged from 5 million to 6 million riels per hectare.

The current market price for rice directly from the fields in Prey Khla commune ranges from 990 riels per kilogram. When sold to mills, the price increases to between 1,030 and 1,050 riels per kilogram, depending on the quality.

Chhit Bunthon Rice Mill is actively purchasing the OM 5451 rice strain from local farmers and is promoting the cultivation of fragrant rice to meet robust market demand, ensuring a sustainable income stream for the community in Prey Veng province.