Takeo Province, 14 September 2025 – Dr. Yang Saing Koma, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF), met with 14 farmers, 8 Commune Agriculture Officers (CAOs), and a representative of Phum Sa’at Organization (PSO) in Prey Kdouch village, Tropaing Krayong commune, Tramkok district.
The meeting focused on three key priorities:
- Reviewing the progress of Sre Laar (SRL) implementation – SRL is an approach adapted from the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) for broadcast rice.
- Preparing for collective harvesting and marketing of paddy rice for the upcoming November harvest.
- Consulting on the Farmers’ One Stop Services (FOS) – a new initiative to improve farmers’ access to inputs, technical advice, and market linkages.
Impressive Results from Land Leveling
One of the most powerful testimonies came from a farmer who shared the impact of land leveling on his farm over the past two years.
Before leveling, his yields were just 1.5 tons per hectare. After leveling, yields doubled to 3 tons per hectare – an increase of 1.5 tons, equivalent to about USD 465 more per hectare.
He also reduced his use of chemical fertilizers, seeds, and herbicides, saving an additional USD 50 per hectare.
Overall, his net income increased by more than USD 500 per hectare – a life-changing improvement.
Positive Results from Certified Seeds and Organic Fertilizer
Other farmers shared encouraging experiences from adopting SRL practices:
- Certified seeds increased yields while reducing seed rates and costs.
- Organic fertilizers improved soil health, reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers, and minimized the need for pesticides.
The farmer who benefited from land leveling said he plans to combine organic fertilizers, certified seeds, and NPK top-dressing in the next season to further boost profits.
Farmers Agree: SRL Is the Way Forward
By the end of the meeting, farmers were convinced that combining the full set of SRL practices – land leveling, integrated nutrient management, high-quality seeds, and better water management – could:
- Increase yields significantly
- Lower production costs per kilogram of paddy
- Improve paddy quality and selling price
- Enhance soil fertility for long-term productivity
They also agreed that land leveling is the key foundation for maximizing the efficiency of seeds, fertilizers, and water.
However, the initial cost of land leveling – about USD 500 per hectare – remains a major challenge. Farmers noted that joining the Farmers’ One Stop Service (FOS) with a 3- to 5-year contract could make this investment affordable and achievable.
A Billion-Dollar Opportunity for Cambodia
Dr. Yang Saing Koma encouraged CAOs and farmers to spread these success stories to neighboring villages and communities.
He stressed that if farmers across Cambodia adopt SRL practices on the country’s 3 million hectares of rice fields, farmers’ income could rise by more than USD 1 billion per year.
“This is a huge economic opportunity that Cambodia can seize over the next 5–10 years to improve farmers’ livelihoods, strengthen food security, and boost rural economic growth.” – Dr. Yang Saing Koma