Green Sea Agriculture Co Ltd spent nearly $70 million in the course of over three years to grow six varieties of mango in Stung Treng province for export to China.

Speaking during a visit by Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Veng Sakhon to the firm's plantation in Borey O'svay district's O'svay commune on May 12, its general manager, known only as Jacky, said the objective of his company's mango plantation and production is to export to China through Vietnam, Thailand and Preah Sihanouk Autonomous Port.

Jacky noted that the mango seeds growing on his plantation were imported from Taiwan, the US and Australia. The six varieties are R2E2, Jinh Wang, Keitt Mango, Red Golden Dragon, Tainong and Guire. The company has been planting them on 1,200ha, or 12 per cent of the planned 9,772ha.

“The company has been preparing transportation and cold chain to bring down the cost.

"On technical aspect, the company has registered the mango plantation with the General Department of Agriculture, which has dispatched an expert team to advise on the techniques for growing, harvesting and packaging in accordance with phytosanitary requirements,” he said.

Sakhon encouraged the company to continue their production efforts, especially by following phytosanitary measures which are the main criteria for export.

The minister also urged the company to work closely with the General Department of Agriculture and provincial agriculture department to make sure its investment and operation go smoothly and successfully.

“The success is not only for the company but also for the national economy and local people through job creation and income generation. This helps prevent migration and improve their livelihood. These are what the government wants to see; that's why it always supports, encourages and promotes a good environment for local and international investors,” Sakhon said.