Cambodian Bamboo Market and Value Chain Study

The study aimed to assess the current state of the bamboo market and value chain in Cambodia, with a focus on the Eastern Plains and Prey Lang Landscapes. The study identified several key species of bamboo, including Bambusa bambos, Bambusa blumeana, and Tectona grandis. These species are used for a variety of products, including bamboo culms, slats, incense sticks, skewers, and baskets. The study found that the majority of bamboo is harvested from the wild, with the majority of collection sites located in the Eastern Plains and Prey Lang Landscapes. The study also identified several key trade routes, including the Mekong River, which is used to transport bamboo products from the collection sites to markets in Phnom Penh and other major cities. The study estimated that over 100,000 bamboo culms can be harvested annually from the study sites in Kampong Kbeurng, Koh Ent Chey, Kampong Damrey, and O Krasang, Boeung Char commune, Sambour district, Kratie province. Additionally, the study estimated that over 50,000-100,000 bamboo culms can be harvested annually from the study areas of Kroam and Krala Peas villages, Preah Rumkel commune, Thalaborivat district, Stung Treng province. The study also identified several key challenges facing the bamboo industry in Cambodia, including the lack of a clear policy framework for the sustainable management of bamboo resources, the limited availability of market information, and the high costs associated with transporting bamboo products from the collection sites to markets. The study recommended several key actions to improve the sustainability of the bamboo industry in Cambodia, including the development of a clear policy framework for the sustainable management of bamboo resources, the establishment of a market information system, and the provision of support to small-scale bamboo producers to improve their access to markets and reduce their costs. The study's findings and recommendations are intended to inform policy and decision-making at the national and local levels, with the goal of improving the sustainability of the bamboo industry in Cambodia and promoting the conservation of biodiversity in the Eastern Plains and Prey Lang Landscapes.