Phnom Penh: The first Cambodian aquaculture exhibition, held at San Sanh Boeung Kak Market in Phnom Penh on December 6-7, 2024, achieved remarkable success, attracting approximately 5,000 visitors. The event showcased aquaculture companies and featured a total of 108 booths displaying a variety of post-harvest processed fishery products, including farmed fish, lobsters, shrimps, and crabs.

The exhibition program saw participation from representatives of various governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, and Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology, alongside support from the Phnom Penh Administration and several agricultural institutions, including the Royal University of Agriculture, Prek Leap National Institute of Agriculture, and Kampong Cham National Institute of Agriculture.

Khun Savoeun, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, addressed attendees regarding the objectives of the exhibition. He outlined the goals of the event, including: enhancing public understanding of the aquaculture sector in Cambodia; providing a platform for the display and sale of fresh and processed aquaculture products; creating learning opportunities in aquaculture and processing; expanding market access for aquaculture products; showcasing successful entrepreneurs in the field; changing consumer perceptions of aquaculture products, often viewed as unsafe and unhygienic; and inspiring public participation in promoting local aquaculture products.

The exhibition marked a significant step forward in promoting the quality and development of aquaculture in Cambodia, highlighting the sector's potential and encouraging greater community engagement.