Cambodia is enhancing its official food safety inspection systems in preparation for a European Union (EU) audit next year. This effort aims to facilitate the registration of Cambodian fisheries enterprises for exports to the EU and to expand access to other international markets.
A major priority is preparing for the audit by the European Union’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), scheduled for 2026. This assessment will play a crucial role in enabling Cambodian fisheries enterprises to meet EU export requirements.
The Fisheries Administration (FiA) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries is also holding discussions on signing memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with other ASEAN member states to strengthen regional trade cooperation.
These developments were highlighted in a joint press release by the Fisheries Administration, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the European Union following a project closing workshop for the initial outcomes of the Post-harvest Fisheries Development Project (CAPFISH-Capture) held on Monday, October 6.
Mr. Khuon Evirat, Acting Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Cambodia, emphasized the significance of the upcoming DG SANTE audit, stating:
“Successfully passing this audit will open up new market opportunities for fisheries products and strengthen Cambodia’s reputation as a supplier of quality and safe fisheries products.”
The workshop, chaired by Mr. Prak David, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the remarkable achievements of the CAPFISH-Capture project and its transformative impact on Cambodia’s fisheries sector.
As the project nears completion in December 2025, it has made notable progress in establishing and implementing a robust food safety monitoring system within the fisheries sector. The Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring food security, community well-being, and inclusive economic growth.
Funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by the Fisheries Administration and UNIDO, the project aligns with international food safety standards. This alignment opens the door for Cambodian fisheries products to reach more international markets, thereby contributing to national economic growth.
Mr. Pum Sotha, Royal Government Delegate in Charge and Head of the Fisheries Administration, stated that the project’s outcomes extend beyond certification systems and technical guidelines:
“The project leaves a legacy of change and a symbol of hope for a bright future for Cambodia’s fisheries sector.”
UNIDO has pledged continued support for Cambodia in achieving global standards and expanding market access.
Mr. Sok Narin, UNIDO Country Representative in Cambodia, noted that Cambodia’s progress reflects strong leadership and collaboration across all levels of stakeholders.
“We are building a resilient and thriving fisheries sector, capable of competing in the international market, driven by a spirit of solidarity,” he said.
Even after the project concludes, efforts to improve food safety compliance in the fisheries processing sector and enhance export readiness will continue. With sustained focus, Cambodia has the potential to become a regional leader in responsible fisheries management.
The project also supported the development and implementation of an official inspection system for Cambodian fisheries products, along with several technical guidelines to strengthen industry-wide quality assurance.
As a result, 22 Cambodian fisheries enterprises have been certified under the Cambodian Quality System (CQS), boosting consumer confidence in both domestic and international markets. Additionally, nine enterprises are utilizing the CamTrace digital traceability system, which meets international traceability standards.
Further legislative and regulatory progress is expected soon. Notably, the new Fisheries Law, adopted in June 2025, aims to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine resources, reinforcing Cambodia’s commitment to environmental sustainability and international trade readiness.