The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) says its Ibis Rice project has
recorded a production surplus for the first time in its five-year history,
prompting a bid to export the boutique product overseas.
Concentrated in Preah Vihear province, Ibis Rice farmers produced more
than 435 tonnes of organically grown, fragrant Malis rice during the 2013-14
harvest season, up 54% from the previous season. The Ibis Rice project is
operated by NGO Sansom Mlup Prey (SMP) and pays farmers a premium of up to 150
riel ($0.03) per kilogram more than other local buyers. In return, farmers
commit to strict regulations barring them from additional land clearances,
thereby protecting surrounding wildlife areas including the Kulen Promtep
Wildlife Sanctuary.
More than 300 farmers participating in the Ibis Rice project
collectively earned upwards of $12,400 more selling to the wildlife-friendly
project than if they had sold paddy to local buyers.
Source:
http://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/ibis-rice-exports-horizon
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