AKP Phnom Penh, April 30, 2025 --

Black pepper farmers in Samlot district, Battambang province, are experiencing a significant boost in income this year as market prices have nearly doubled compared to last year. 

Sun-dried black pepper from the region is currently fetching between 25,000 and 28,000 Riel approximately (US$6.25 to US$7) per kilogramme, a roughly 50 percent increase from the 16,000 Riel (US$4) per kilogramme price seen in the previous year.

Mr. Suem Sovann, a pepper farmer from Sung 1 village in Sung commune, expressed his satisfaction with the price surge. Owning about one hectare of pepper plants, he noted that the increased income is substantially improving his family's financial well-being. He also mentioned that pepper cultivation is the primary occupation for most residents in his commune.

Cultivating high-quality pepper demands diligent care, according to Mr. Sovann. Farmers in the area typically harvest green peppercorns for fresh culinary use while the plants are still producing. The fully ripened peppercorns are then harvested and sun-dried for approximately three days to become black pepper. A grinding process follows to separate the seeds from the stems, resulting in clean, high-quality black pepper. Farmers can obtain about 300 kilogrammes of dried black pepper from one tonne of fresh ripe peppercorns.

The significant price increase has been a welcome development for the pepper growers in Samlot. Notably, middlemen are now directly purchasing pepper from the farmers at their homes. This is occurring despite the district's proximity to the Thai border, suggesting strong local demand. These traders then transport the pepper for sale in Phnom Penh and to neighbouring countries.

Samlot's black pepper is highly regarded by consumers for its natural quality, as farmers in the region do not use chemical substances to enhance their yields. This natural approach contributes to the pepper's distinct flavour and appeal in the market.

Article in Khmer by Sophal

Article in English by K. Rithy Reak