Farmers’ Perceptions of Organic Rice Farming in Cambodia: Opportunities and Challenges
Rada KHOY, Teruaki NANSEKI, Yosuke CHOMEI

Abstract
This study documents some perceptions of Cambodian farmers towards organic rice farming, as well as the determinants of farmers’ views. Three target organic cooperatives were selected from three districts located in Takeo and Kampot province. 170 out of 247 farmers that were randomly selected for interviews from March to April 2014 were used in the analysis. Results indicate that most farmers were only aware that organic rice production would yield higher market prices for their produce, along with an improved standard of health and environment. They infrequently remarked about other benefits, such as soil improvement and cost reduction. Farmers perceive that labor-intensive production and lack of organic fertilizers are the main challenges in organic farming. Moreover, farmers distinguished the opportunities and challenges differently according to their characteristics. Hence, securing better yields and a market for organic rice production through long term contracting and improved farming techniques are key factors for promoting organic farming.

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