February 28, 2023

 

Cambodia agriculture minister visits country's largest dairy farm

 

 

 

Underlining the importance of the development of agriculture in Cambodia as well as the role of dairy and dairy products in the food chain, the country's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF), Dith Tina, paid a visit to Kirisu Farm on February 24.

 

Kirisu is the largest and most advanced dairy farm in Cambodia set up by Khmer Fresh Milk Co Ltd.

 

Tina explored the various facilities of Kirisu Farm, which is spread across 300 hectares.

 

Speaking to Khmer Times, he said his visit was part of an attempt to know the various aspects of the agriculture economy in Cambodia and take steps to improve the sector.

 

The minister also spoke about the possibility of involving local farmers in the supply of animal feed through contract farming.

 

"I hope (Kirisu Farm), which is expanding its production line, will consider cooperating with local farmers in growing fodder for its cattle and create opportunities for the farmers of the area. That would benefit all," he said.

 

"As we grow and increase the number of cattle, we may have to source fodder from outside and for that, we can talk to farmers to grow grass for us through contract farming," Chhor Rithy, chief executive officer of Khmer Fresh Milk Co Ltd, told Khmer Times. "We sought the minister's support as we are mostly related to the agriculture sector, and we can work with farmers in improving their living standards."

 

Kirisu Farm uses high-end technology and the latest practices for growing fodder, keeping cows healthy and in hygienic conditions and processing milk and milk products.

 

"We do not only use many types of machinery, but also big data, such as AI, to find out if a cow is sick or healthy, and even to irrigate the crops, we use (Internet of Things)," said Chy Sila, co-founder and director of the dairy farm. "For us, it is also a matter of pride because the government is now focusing more on agriculture, especially modern agriculture."

 

Kirisu Farm, located in Ophasaing Village of Takeo Province, has been operating for over four years and won the National Entrepreneur Award last year. It supplies products, including fresh milk and a variety of yogurts. It plans to reach out to other Cambodian provinces to expand its market footprint.

 

Kirisu Farm has around 900 Australian milch cattle and plans to raise the number to 2,000 in the next few years. It produces 12,000-15,000 liters of milk a day.

 

- Khmer Times