Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia has set its sights on becoming a leading global producer and exporter of cashew nuts. As part of this vision, private sector companies like Kamya AgriTrade are playing a crucial role in adding value to the cashew nut industry by investing in processing facilities, certifications, and the development of quality products.
Established in 2017, Kamya AgriTrade has swiftly emerged as a key player in Cambodia’s cashew export industry. By focusing on processing and trade of certified-organic agriculture products, the company aims to strengthen local value addition and link smallholder producers to international markets.
Cambodia’s first full container load of certified organic cashews
Despite the nation’s impressive raw cashew cultivation capacity of over one million tons annually, the lack of processing facilities within the country has limited the potential for value addition. Recognizing this challenge, Kamya AgriTrade has taken decisive steps to contribute to the growth of the industry.
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The company made history in 2022 by purchasing around 80MT of certified raw cashew nuts (RCN) for deshelling at the only certified organic processing factory in Cambodia. The final product, Cambodia’s first full container load of certified organic cashews, was shipped to a buyer in the Netherlands.
Speaking to Cambodia Investment Review, Kamya AgriTrade detailed its supply chain, which begins with sourcing certified-organic raw cashew nuts. The company has been processing and exporting small but increasing amounts of high-quality Cambodian spices for the last 10 years, and they now see certified-organic cashews, particularly the local M23 variety, as a potentially high-value crop for smallholders.
Kamya AgriTrade is building its own downstream processing capacity in roasting, flavoring, and packaging, while deshelling is outsourced. The company is also experimenting with other cashew-based vegan products that have potential in local and regional markets. The first container of certified-organic Cambodian cashews exported by Kamya included around 15MT of unroasted cashew kernels in various sizes.
To ensure the quality and safety of its cashew products, Kamya AgriTrade holds certifications according to organic standards in the EU, USA (NOP), Canada (COR), and Japan (JAS). Outsourced processing steps are carried out in facilities holding at least a HACCP certification.
Kamya AgriTrade’s commitment to quality and innovation
In terms of competitive advantage, Kamya AgriTrade’s commitment to quality and innovation has set it apart from other cashew exporters in the market. The company was one of the first in Cambodia to obtain an internationally recognized certification for its organic operations.
Furthermore, Kamya AgriTrade has introduced new products in both local and export markets, such as “Fermented Pepper” and roasted, spiced cashew nuts, which have been enjoyed by visitors at internationally renowned Raffles ‘Le Royal’s’ Elephant Bar in Phnom Penh.
As a small but dedicated team focused on quality and taste, Kamya AgriTrade is eager to expand the marketing of Cambodia’s exceptional cashews domestically, regionally, and globally.
The company’s continued efforts in developing the cashew nut industry align with the Cambodian government’s National Policy on Cashew Nuts for 2022-2027, which aims to increase production and value-added, giving hope to cashew farmers. By 2027, the policy seeks to promote industrialization and increase processing to at least 25 percent, and to 50 percent by 2032.
