CAC News
PHNOM PENH, Sept. 18, 2026 — The National Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI) organized a consultation and data validation workshop to identify challenges and develop strategies to improve cashew nut harvesting and processing efficiency in Cambodia.
The workshop, titled “Assessing Challenges and Optimizing Cashew Nut Harvesting and Processing, and Actionable Strategies in Cambodia,” was conducted in a hybrid format, bringing together 46 experts and relevant stakeholders both in person and online. The Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC) was represented by Mr. Sambath Karuna, Director of CAC’s Phnom Penh municipal branch.
Discussions focused on identifying practical solutions to improve harvesting and primary processing, increase value addition, and strengthen the competitiveness of Cambodia’s cashew industry.
The workshop also highlighted the importance of strengthening technical capacity and improving post-harvest management to reduce losses and enhance product quality.
CAC has been supporting these objectives through practical cashew-processing training at its head office, which includes a processing facility for training existing processors and entrepreneurs interested in entering the industry.
CAC’s three-day training program covers post-harvest management, processing techniques, quality control, machinery operation, financial management, and value addition. Participants also receive instruction on international kernel grading standards, food safety, moisture management, equipment selection, and processing costs.
The training is developed based on consultations with existing and prospective processors and an assessment of industry needs. However, Silot Uon, president of CAC, said financial constraints limit the program to once a year, restricting opportunities to expand technical training for local processors.
The discussions at the NISTI workshop and CAC’s ongoing capacity-building efforts underscore the need for continued collaboration among government institutions, industry associations and processors to improve productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and retain greater economic value within Cambodia’s cashew sector.
