Amru Rice considers durian production

Local rice exporter Amru Rice is now studying the possibility of diversifying into durian production, and is considering agricultural areas in Mondulkiri to set up plantations.

The company, known for following organic agricultural principles, is now conducting studies to determine the profitability of the crop.

“We haven’t began planting yet. At the moment, we are conducting feasibility studies to see what crops we should start planting,” said Song Saran, Amru Rice’s CEO, adding that they are considering a number of fruits, but that durian seems the most likely pick due to high demand for the fruit abroad, particularly in China.

If plans for planting durian go ahead, the company will be doing so in an area in Mondulkiri known as Dak Dam, he said. The plantation will extend over 100 hectares and production could begin as early as next year.

Mr Saran said their durians would be shipped to China. “Right now, the huge demand from China is being fed mostly by Thai producers. But in Cambodia we can also grow durian and we shouldn’t miss the opportunity to do so,” he said.

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