Six Chinese companies have expressed interest in establishing cashew processing plants in Cambodia, with one specialising in producing Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL), according to the Cashew Nut Association of Cambodia (CAC).

CNSL is a by-product of industrial processing that can be transformed into a renewable, biodegradable and cost-effective biofuel, viewed as an eco-friendly alternative to petro-diesel.

Uon Silot, president of the CAC, revealed during the January 1 groundbreaking ceremony for Singapore’s new processing plant, that he had invited Chinese investors to the event who have shown an interest in establishing cashew processing plants, particularly for converting cashew shells into high-quality fuel.

He noted that Chinese companies are very interested in Cambodia’s abundant cashew supply, as they require the shells to convert them into biofuel for export to environmentally conscious nations such as Japan, South Korea and EU members.

“This is an encouraging development for Cambodia, and I hope the company maintains communication with us. If they are interested in establishing a factory, we have ample land available for their investment in construction,” Silot stated.

“The CAC benefits from the backing of the government, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) and provincial authorities, all of whom are committed to agro-industrial investment. I am optimistic that these companies will make favourable decisions in 2024-2025,” he added.

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Author: Van Socheata

Publication Date: 01 January 2024

Source: The Phnom Penh Post