January 10, 2025 | Khmer Times |
Cambodian farmers, particularly in Battambang’s Moung Russei District, are shifting from rice to pineapples for higher profitability. Pineapples, known for their sweet flavor, yield 50–80 tons per hectare compared to rice’s 3.5 tons, and their transaction-cost ratio is more favorable (0.5 vs. 0.2 for rice).
Currently, about 705 hectares in Mangkol commune are dedicated to pineapple farming, producing over 35 million fruits annually. Despite a drop in farm gate prices to 500 riels ($0.12) per fruit, the sector remains attractive due to rapid crop yields and higher returns. Pineapples are sold in major Cambodian cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Cambodia’s pineapple production, ranked 46th globally in 2022 with 26,000 tons, is projected to surpass 28,000 tons by 2026, growing steadily at 1.6% annually. As more households switch to pineapple farming, the industry is gaining momentum, supported by increasing domestic consumption and market demand. Farmers and experts expect further growth in the coming years, solidifying pineapples as a profitable alternative to traditional rice cultivation.
