A Japanese-standard vegetable farm plans to start farming chilli peppers for export on a 72-hectare plot of land in Siem Reap province’s Angkor Thom district.

According to Siem Reap Provincial Information Department, the planned Japanese chilli plant will incorporate new technologies and be highly productive, serving as a model for local agriculture.

Yamato Green Co. Ltd. founder and CEO Katsuhito Nabeshima told Agence Kampuchea Press (AKP), “Once the project is up and running, the farm will need staff to take care of the chilli pepper crops to export quality standards, as well as manpower.

“Many workers will be needed to harvest the farm, which is also an opportunity to help create jobs for people in the area.”

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According to Nabeshima, Cambodia requires 500 tons of chilli peppers per month, and 200 hectares is sufficient to meet the demand.

In an interview with Kiripost, Tea Kim Soth, director of the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, said, “I really support all agriculture projects. It's especially good news when we have good cooperation with the Japanese investor to plant chilli peppers in Siem Reap province.”

He noted that the project will enhance employment, as Siem Reap is a famous province for both local and international tourists. Additionally, people will be able to export products to Japan more easily when the new airport in Siem Reap officially opens.

Kim Soth added, “We believe in the Japanese because when they promise, they always deliver, so we hope to see good results from planting peppers on 72 hectares of land. Then another plan [turning peppers into chilli sauce] will continue.

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“They are supportive of providing Cambodian farmers with both techniques and crops, so Siem Reap will be more attractive for visitors and investors.”

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