An infographic shows some of the key findings of the latest agricultural survey. Hong Raksmey/The Post
During the release of the latest agricultural census findings, Rin Virak, chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Institute of Statistics (NIS), highlighted key insights into Cambodia’s agricultural sector, particularly the demographic shifts observed over the past decade.
“One striking revelation was that youth aged 10 to 19 make up the largest group in agricultural households, with a total of 1.39 million individuals,” said Virak.
With more and more of those in their twenties reportedly venturing to the cities to seek work in the manufacturing and service industries, the survey noted that both sectors are growing more rapidly than agriculture.
A 2013 survey by the NIS reported that Cambodia had over 2.6 million households, of which 2.13 million were engaged in farming.
By 2023 however, the Kingdom was home to 3.5 million households, with just 1.85 million still involved in agriculture. This marked a decrease of 280,000 farming households, or 13 per cent, over in just one decade.
Nor Vanndy, director of the NIS economic statistics department, also presented findings on the gender distribution within agricultural households.
Youth between the ages of 10 to 19 years old represent the largest group within agricultural households. Supplied
“The survey revealed a male-dominated agricultural landscape, with 84 per cent of the population residing in male-headed households,” Vanndy said, during the launch of the Cambodian Agricultural Forum and Exhibition 2025 (CAFÉ 2025) on the morning of April 7.
Furthermore, 73 per cent of agricultural holding owners are male, compared to just 22 per cent who are female. Interestingly, 4 per cent of agricultural holdings are managed collectively.
In terms of age distribution, the survey revealed a notable shift: youth between the ages of 10 to 19 years old represent the largest group within agricultural households.
This demographic, comprising nearly 1.4 million individuals, plays a crucial role in Cambodia’s agricultural workforce, highlighting the importance of nurturing young talent in rural areas.
In addition, the survey data on agricultural produce sales channels revealed that middlemen dominate the market, with 969,000 households selling their products to wholesalers.
Vanndy said local markets and direct-from-holding sales follow as the second and third most popular sales channels. Only a small fraction of households engage in formal contracts with private companies or cooperatives.
Looking at broader trends, the agricultural sector's contribution to Cambodia’s economy has experienced a shift.
“In 2023, agriculture contributed 17.1 per cent to the total economy, down from 24.4 per cent in 2013,” noted Vanndy.
“However, this is still significant, with agricultural output valued at 29,721.1 billion riel in 2023, an increase from 19,501.1 billion riel in 2013,” he added.
Virak concluded that while the agricultural sector has faced some challenges, the younger generation’s involvement and the overall economic trends indicate potential for growth and modernisation within the sector.
As Cambodia looks toward 2024, the agriculture sector is projected to contribute 16.6% to the economy, continuing to be an essential pillar in the Kingdom’s development.
