Thailand
Cambodia: Draft law on food safety to boost biz environment
The Council of Ministers approved the draft law on food safety on April 1. Pan Sorasak, Minister of Commerce, said that the draft law is another important instrument to facilitate a better business environment in Cambodia.
The Ministry of Commerce, which has also been promoting the food business, reiterated that all food vendors must work together to ensure high quality, affordability and hygiene.
The minister emphasised that food safety is an important part of attracting tourists.
“The ministry held discussions with several stakeholders for the last four years before finalising the draft law on food safety. The draft law on food safety is very important in setting the basic principles to promote all food products to be safe. It will ensure quality and set new health standards and protect the interests of consumers. It will also contribute significantly to reducing people’s poverty,” the minister said.
Phay Siphan, Minister Attached to the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Royal Government Spokesperson Unit, said that the draft law was prepared in accordance with the requirements of global international trade and in line with the work program of the Royal Government 2012-2015.
“Recognising this importance and in line with the principles of the global legal system, the Ministry of Commerce has co-authored this draft food safety law to regulate food business operators at all stages of the production chain and ensure that all food products in the Kingdom of Cambodia is of good quality, safe and hygienic for every citizen,” Siphan said.
He emphasised that each food supply chain link must comply with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Agreement commitments, which he said are drivers of investment and food exports and support for equitable and fair competition in the industry.
President of the Cambodian Tourism and Services Workers Federation (CTSWF), Morm Rithy told Khmer Times that food safety in Cambodia needs improvement because the food sales of many vendors are unsanitary. Delicious food is only available at standard hotels. In addition, preparation techniques and flavours are still limited. More importantly, the market for food prices is high.
He pointed out that strengthening food safety measures is essential for Cambodia to compete in the tourism sector with neighbouring countries. He said tourists term Thailand’s food as hygienic, quality and affordable.
He pointed out that the new law’s approval is good for the country, but the government should ensure its implementation properly and transparently.
Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501052760/draft-law-on-food-safety-to-boost-biz-environment/