Cambodia’s Banana Exports Declined 21% YoY in 2023 Due to Fusarium Challenge

Cambodia's banana industry faced a significant challenge due to the Fusarium fungus, leading to a 21% year-on-year (YoY) decrease in banana exports in 2023, reaching approximately 290 thousand metric tons (mt). This soil-borne fungus, which causes banana leaves to wilt and yellow, is exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon. To combat this issue, the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), with Chinese experts' support, has initiated a project to strengthen Cambodia's phytosanitary system. This includes a Phytosanitary Capacity Evaluation and training in pest management techniques, aiming to address the impact on banana production and exports.