Fresh water fish is the animal protein of choice among Cambodians. Yet, despite plentiful access to fresh water from the Mekong River, Tonle Sap lake, and rain for six months of the year, the Cambodian aquaculture sector is significantly lagging its neighbors.
The CAST Cambodia baseline study commissioned by ASA/WISHH, funded by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), and implemented by World Fish surveyed 6 provinces and Phnom Penh municipality along with three control provinces. Analysis of this study shows the average aquaculture yield is 4.77 kg/m2/year in pond and 44.00 kg/m3/year in cage across species. Pangasius production, which accounts for over 50 percent of aquaculture production in the surveyed provinces, achieves less than 25% of the yield of similar systems in Vietnam. Fewer than 10% of Cambodian producers use commercial grade pellet feed for 100% of their fish’s diet. Additionally, one hatchery produced 95% of Cambodian origin Pangasius fingerlings.
The CAST’s total value chain approach pairs traditional agriculture technical assistance and extension services with marketing, branding, and financial training. CAST is working with the private sector to create credit products and production insurance for producers. The Cambodian Aquaculture Association has been formed in the image of US commodity groups to advocate for producers and link stakeholders throughout the production chain. Kansas State University has constructed applied research parks near Phnom Penh and Siem Reap where Cambodian technicians will train with researchers. A Cambodian Aquaculture Certificate program is being developed by Auburn University in conjunction with CAST. Finally, CAST is working with feed producers to ensure high quality fish feed is being produced in Cambodia and is available to fish farmers throughout the country.
The CAST project, funded through USDA’s Food for Progress Program, aims to professionalize aquaculture production in Cambodia and create lasting institutions to ensure continual improvements well after it has closed its doors.