Phnom penh: As the CAPFISH-Capture Project approaches its conclusion, it stands as a milestone in transforming Cambodia's food and fisheries sector through innovation, applied research, and cross-sector collaboration that are shaping a more competitive and sustainable industry.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, during the project's closing workshop on Oct. 7, 2025, representatives from government agencies, private enterprises, development partners, and academia gathered to review key achievements and discuss strategies for sustainable growth.
H.E. Dr. Hul Seingheng, Under Secretary of State of the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), said the project had laid the groundwork for a national agenda on applied research, IP and technology transfer, geographical indication (GI) branding, and innovation measurement to strengthen Cambodia's food and fisheries industry. He emphasised that 'innovation and R and D are powerful tools for building a sustainable food sector,' noting that lessons from CAPFISH-Capture will shape future strategies.
The workshop highlighted the project's key achievements, including the launch of the Food Technology, Research and Innovation Platform (FTRIP), establishment of the Cambodia Packaging Centre (CPC), creation of a university-level IP policy model, registration of Prahok Siem Reap as a GI, and implementation of the Cambodia Enterprise Innovation Index Guideline.
Dr. Chamnan Chhoun, Director of the Department of Fisheries Post-Harvest Technology and Quality of the Fisheries Administration, said these achievements have formed a solid foundation for long-term competitiveness of Cambodia's agri-food and aquaculture sectors.
Dr. Thombathu Seetharama Shetty, UNIDO Senior Technical Advisor, said FTRIP had successfully connected research and industry, turning scientific outputs into practical innovations for Cambodian enterprises and improving their international standing.
According to MISTI, CAPFISH-Capture is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Fisheries Administration with technical support from UNIDO. As the project concludes in December 2025, its achievements are expected to drive continued collaboration, resilience, and competitiveness across Cambodia's agri-food and fisheries sector.