When Norbert Binot founded Fair Farms in 2014, his vision extended beyond cultivating Kampot pepper. He dreamed of a community where farmers thrived alongside their crops, empowered by sustainable practices and fair opportunities. Over the past decade, his farm has evolved into one of Cambodia’s leading producers and exporters of organic, fair-trade Kampot pepper, employing 15 full-time and 110 seasonal staff—69% women. But Fair Farms is more than a pepper exporter; it is a beacon of transformation and hope for local communities.

Norbert’s journey began with an epiphany: his farm could be a force for positive change. Through direct engagement with local farmers, he unearthed the core challenges they faced—livelihood insecurity, climate change, and limited access to resources and education. As Norbert put it, “True understanding comes from immersion. It means being uncomfortable and truly listening to the community’s needs.”
Armed with this insight, Norbert developed targeted strategies to enhance farmers’ income and empower them to invest in sustainable practices. He understood that poverty extended beyond the fields, impacting access to education, healthcare, clean water, and proper nutrition.

Norbert Binot, Founder of Fair Farms.

Norbert Binot, Founder of Fair Farms.

Yet the driving change was no simple task. Convincing farmers to adopt new methods requires patience and trust.
“One of the best ways to build trust was to lead by example,” Norbert said. By showcasing the success of sustainable farming on his own land, he inspired others to follow suit.

Fair Farms has also helped farmers navigate the complexities of organic and fair-trade certification. Accessing premium markets comes with steep financial and logistical barriers, but Norbert was determined to bridge this gap. “It is our responsibility to help farmers obtain organic certification so they can reach better markets,” he said.

Despite these efforts, climate change remains a formidable challenge. Cambodian farmers are grappling with extreme weather, from scorching heat to declining yields. “This year, our production has dropped, and many farmers are giving up,” Norbert lamented. “We are losing out to climate change.”

Still, Norbert refuses to surrender. With support from Oxfam’s Impact SME Program, Fair Farms is pursuing innovative solutions, including advanced irrigation systems, partnerships for local organic production, and diversification into vanilla cultivation to reduce monoculture risks. “We are in a situation where we need to invest,” he said, highlighting the importance of financial backing for long-term resilience.

Oxfam has also connected Norbert with investors and like-minded entrepreneurs, providing the tools and credibility needed for fundraising success. “Oxfam’s introduction adds weight to our efforts,” he said. Skills like trust-building and impact measurement, gained through the program, are helping Fair Farms secure its future.

For Norbert, growing Kampot pepper is just one part of a bigger picture. His vision for Fair Farms includes soil protection, water conservation, and crop diversification—initiatives designed to shield farmers from the impacts of climate change. “We are not just farming peppers; we are building a sustainable future for our communities,” he said.

Through dedication and collaboration, Fair Farms continues to transform livelihoods, proving that sustainable agriculture is not only possible but essential in the fight against climate change.