Cambodhrra Cambodian Partnership for Development Human Resource in Rural Area Association
A Case Study of Romchek Meanchey Agricultural Cooperative
Romchek Meanchey Agricultural Cooperative (RMAC), established in 2020 in Cambodia’s Tbong Khmum Province, is a key player in the rubber sub-sector. Despite its potential, RMAC has faced significant challenges, including low latex prices, limited market access, weak representation in policy discussions, and fragmented stakeholder coordination. To address these issues, CamboDHRRA, through the Strengthening Multi-Actor Partnership for a Sustainable Natural Rubber Value Chain (SMART) Project, has implemented strategic interventions funded by BMZ and Welthungerhilfe (WHH).
CamboDHRRA focused on equipping RMAC members with skills in latex harvesting and agroforestry. In collaboration with the Cambodian Rubber Research Institute (CRRI), ten master trainers, including one from RMAC, were trained. Additionally, 38 lead farmers, including 17 women, received training to spread knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). Techniques such as integrating cover crops to enhance soil fertility were introduced, and members participated in study tours to rubber plantations and tire manufacturing facilities to improve latex processing and quality control.
To strengthen market positioning, RMAC adopted cooperative-based marketing strategies. Members received value chain and price negotiation training, and RMAC secured formal agreements with Memot Rubber Plantation Co., Ltd., ensuring stable demand and fair pricing. Investments in centralized latex collection points improved quality control and reduced post-harvest losses, leading to better bargaining power for members.
RMAC actively participated in Multi-Actor Partnership (MAP) discussions at provincial and national levels to influence policies and market structures. Engagement in provincial MAP meetings allowed RMAC to advocate for fair pricing and infrastructure improvements, while participation in the national MAP platform contributed to discussions on sustainability and compliance with global standards like Sustainable Natural Rubber (SNR) guidelines.
The SMART Project’s interventions led to significant economic gains. RMAC secured latex prices 30% higher than previous market rates (5,000-7,000 riels per kilogram), increasing member earnings. Centralized collection points reduced transportation costs by 25%, and long-term agreements with buyers stabilized income streams. Enhanced latex quality also attracted premium buyers willing to pay higher prices.
Table 1: latex sale (volume and price) in 2024
| No. | Product | Total of sale (Kg) | Total(riels) per year | Total ($) per year |
| 1 | Latex | 148,737 | 336,584,300 | 84,146.075 |
Beyond financial benefits, RMAC successfully advocated for better infrastructure and policies supporting sustainable rubber production. Participation in MAP meetings provided valuable knowledge-sharing opportunities on market trends and sustainable farming practices. The cooperative also experienced a 50% increase in membership for collective sales, driven by improved market benefits and training programs. Members gained expertise in GAP, agroforestry, and post-harvest techniques, strengthening their ability to compete in the rubber industry.
The project also had notable social and environmental impacts. The adoption of sustainable farming techniques like agroforestry improved soil health and reduced environmental degradation. Furthermore, RMAC promoted gender inclusion by increasing the participation of women in decision-making roles, including representation in the Women in Agribusiness Network.
The SMART Project has successfully empowered RMAC through capacity-building, market integration, multi-actor partnership and policy engagement. By securing better market conditions, reducing costs, and influencing national policies, RMAC has positioned itself as a model for sustainable and responsible rubber production in Cambodia. The continued scaling of this approach to other cooperatives, alongside stronger MAP engagement, is key to the long-term sustainability of the rubber sub-sector.