Connecting Cambodian Local Producers to Markets: A Game-Changing Collaboration

Cambodian SMEs have faced significant market access challenges due to a lack of timely market information and limited networking and partnership opportunities. Improving access to market data and fostering stronger business networks are essential for enhancing their competitiveness and market reach.

In response, the One Village One Product (OVOP) National Committee and Oxfam have collaborated to implement the “Market Access for Local Producers and M/SMEs” project. This initiative includes a Producer-Buyer Matching Forum and Exhibition activities in selected cities and provinces, with support from local authorities and supermarkets like BigC and Makro. 

The project aims to create market opportunities for local producers and M/SMEs to meet potential buyers and engage in discussions on supply and demand conditions. Additionally, participants can connect with local authorities, institutions, NGOs, financial institutions, and youth groups for technical support and resources to further develop their businesses. The forum is organized alongside an exhibition where producers and M/SMEs can showcase and sell their products.

So far, we have already conducted the Forum and Exhibition in two provinces with positive results. About 255 participants, including producers, traders, and relevant authorities, attended these events. Both producers and buyers shared information, negotiated resale agreements, and sold approximately $19,500 worth of products during the forum, with promises of future purchases.

In addition, each local authority helped facilitate discussions on market access challenges. Local authorities committed to supporting producers by providing updated buyer information and facilitating an information hub on product needs, demand, and production capacity. The government also pledged to support the campaign by purchasing more local products.

This important project, initiated by OVOP and Oxfam in 2022, aims to support and strengthen market access for local producers. Over the past two years, 17 forums and exhibitions have been held, benefiting approximately 3,000 producers and buyers. This year, we plan to hold the forum in Phnom Penh, and other four provinces including Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Koh Kong, and Banteay Meanchey.

H.E. Dr. Noy Shoung, Vice-Chairman of the OVOP National Committee, stated, “By creating a meaningful network interconnection mechanism from suppliers to consumers, we can solve problems with relevant institutions, promote business opportunities, and contribute to Cambodia’s economic development and improve local communities’ livelihood.”