Cambodia

Cambodia covers about 181,000 km² and is located in mainland Southeast Asia. Its landscape consists largely of low-lying plains centred around the Tonlé Sap and the Mekong River system, which are crucial for agriculture and fisheries. The country has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons that strongly influence farming activities.

Before French colonisation in the 19th century, Khmer kingdoms developed sophisticated irrigation systems that supported rice cultivation. Under colonial rule, agriculture remained the backbone of the economy. After independence in 1953 and later periods of conflict, agriculture continued to play a central role in recovery and development.

Today, the primary sector contributes around 20–25% of GDP and employs a large share of the population. Approximately 30% of the land is used for agriculture. Rice is the dominant crop and staple food. Other important crops include maize, cassava and rubber. Livestock farming includes cattle, pigs and poultry, mainly on a small scale.

Forests cover roughly 45–50% of Cambodia’s territory, though deforestation has reduced forest areas over time.

Cambodia’s inland fisheries are particularly significant. Tonlé Sap Lake is one of the world’s most productive freshwater fishing areas, providing fish that are essential to national food security.

Overall, Cambodia’s primary sector reflects its riverine geography: rice farming in fertile floodplains, small-scale livestock rearing, forest resources and extensive freshwater fisheries. Despite the growth of industry and tourism, agriculture and fishing remain vital for employment and livelihoods.

2011 were Gerold and Klaudia 3 days in Phnom Penh. The city was practically trapped by a glorious flood (500,000 ha flooded). From the plane we could see that everything was under water. In the city, however, the typical activities of high water - except at the city tributary to the Mekong - which was very high, nothing to feel. We were very shocked by the torture house S21 and the killing fields of the Khmer Rouge of the seventies. How so much suffering and agony can be done to people. The idea of self-sufficiency is very close to my heart, but it is embarrassing to fail in such a disgusting and incapable way. But the royal palace is a jewel and almost unique for Southeast Asia.