The ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program continues to position aquaculture in Cambodia for long-term trade for U.S. soy, particularly through large-scale fish farming operations. Through its Commercialization of Aquaculture for Sustainable Trade-Cambodia project, WISHH has helped fish farmers transition from traditional, homemade fish feed to more efficient and sustainable pellet-based feed. Homemade feed, often cooked on-site, raises concerns related to environmental pollution, time and labor demands, and inconsistent feed quality that can impact both the health of the fish and the end consumers. Pellet-based feed not only enhances farm efficiency and fish health but also opens the door for increased use of U.S. soy on fish farms in Cambodia.
Recently, and as the CAST Projet draws to a close, WISHH has partnered the Cambodian Aquaculturist Association to promote Good Aquaculture Practices (GAqP). With funding from the Illinois Soybean Association, the CAA is reaching out to large-scale Cambodian fish farms to implement pellet-based feeding systems on a broader scale. As pellet feed often includes high-quality soy-based ingredients, the shift is creating new opportunities for U.S. soy exports.
CAST is a U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded Food for Progress project that accelerates production of high-demand fish species for the Cambodian market and develops a lasting aquaculture industry. WISHH plans to continue select CAST activities with state soybean organization funds and USDA market development programs, boosting trade opportunities for U.S. soybean farmers.