While Cambodia ranks among the world’s top three producers of cashew nuts, only 10% of these crops are processed in-country, with the rest exported to neighbouring countries.

Australia, through the CAPRED program, is helping to trial the use of a new Cambodian-made deshelling machine to increase in-country processing capacity for small businesses.

The machines are affordable, compact and easy to operate. They improve processing quality and capacity, safety for workers and incomes. One early adopter, Duk Phearum, reports being able to double his output – from 50 to 100 kilograms per day – as a result.

Recently, Chargé d'affaires Pablo Kang visited Siem Reap Province to see the new technology in action, as part of Australia’s wider efforts to improve the cashew sector.

Watch to learn more.