The agriculture ministry, in collaboration with the National Institute of Statistics (NIS), is conducting the Cambodia Agriculture Survey 2024 (CAS 2024), which will survey approximately 16,000 agricultural holdings nationwide. Supplied
The Cambodia Agriculture Survey 2024 (CAS 2024) has commenced, marking another milestone in the country’s commitment to evidence-based agricultural development.
Conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in collaboration with the National Institute of Statistics (NIS) under the Ministry of Planning, the survey covers approximately 16,000 agricultural holdings nationwide.
Supported by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through the global 50x2030 Initiative, the survey aims to deliver critical data on crop cultivation, livestock, poultry and aquaculture, according to a November 25 joint press release.
The release highlighted that preparations for the study began earlier this month with training for supervisors from November 4-8, followed by enumerator training from November 18-23.
Fieldwork began on November 25 and will continue through December 8, ensuring the collection of accurate and comprehensive data.
It noted that this year’s survey features a core module on agricultural productivity alongside a rotating module on “machinery, equipment and assets”, completing a cycle of focused modules that included “income, labour and productivity” in 2021 and “production methods and environment” in 2022.
“By delivering reliable data on agricultural practices, we are strengthening Cambodia’s agricultural resilience and paving the way for sustainable growth,” FAO Cambodia statistician Todd Hunkin said.
According to the release, the evaluation is part of the 50x2030 Initiative, which aims to close agricultural data gaps in 50 low- and middle-income countries by 2030. Cambodia, the project’s first participant, has conducted annual surveys since 2019. These efforts align with the country’s Pentagonal Strategy and its vision of transforming the country into a high-income nation by 2050.
“Data is a cornerstone for Cambodia to achieve its ‘Cambodia Vision 2050’,” agriculture ministry deputy director of planning and statistics Hok Kimthourn said.
He emphasised that the agriculture sector remains a key pillar of the country’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment and food security. He noted that as the country develops its processing and export capabilities, high-quality data will be essential for guiding sustainable and resilient growth.
FAO representative in Cambodia Rebekah Bell highlighted the importance of collaboration in the survey’s success.
“CAS 2024 reflects the strong collaboration between FAO, Cambodia’s agriculture ministry and the NIS. This joint effort underscores the importance of data-driven insights for sustainability, resilience and growth in Cambodia’s agricultural sector,” she stated.
A joint event on December 19 will see the release of results from CAS 2022 and CAS 2023, offering a comprehensive overview of agricultural trends and developments. This data will provide timely insights to inform strategic planning and policy decisions.
Looking ahead, Cambodia plans to launch its 10-year Agriculture Census in early 2025. Combined with the annual CAS surveys, the census will establish a robust baseline for monitoring progress and shaping agricultural policies.
CAS 2024 exemplifies the country’s proactive approach to enhancing its agricultural sector through data-driven strategies. These efforts not only support the nation’s sustainability and resilience but also set a strong example for other countries in the 50x2030 Initiative, according to the release.
