Pepper

Dutch investors recognized the enormous potential of Cambodian pepper, its elevated global demand, and yet unexploited market. So they have invested in Sela Pepper, making it one of the largest pepper processing companies in the Kingdom, servicing both the local and the international market with premium products.

“Cambodian pepper is recognized as the best pepper globally. It is headed by the Geographical Indication-denominated Kampot pepper from the southern coast and followed by high-quality harvests gained from several other regions,” says Ms. Sopha Soeng, General Manager of Sela Pepper. “The agricultural sector, which includes pepper and many other products such as mango and cashew nuts, has enormous potential to compete internationally, but large-scale processing facilities are needed to comply with international food safety standards.

An emerging favourite of chefs around the world, the black pepper’s distinct spiciness forms the base for Sela’s expanding product line, ranging from the hand-selected raw pepper to processed products such as its pepper sauces and mayo pepper. Drawing from its expertise and brand awareness, the company aims to diversify its product line further and expand to new markets.

“We have received the Cambodian government’s support in establishing and growing our business from the start, and receiving foreign investments was a smooth and hassle-free process,” says Ms.Sopha Soeng. She added that while the Covid-19 pandemic impacted all exports due to higher transportation costs, the Cambodian government responded with simplified customs clearance processes and other supports, actively helping companies to serve their international customers and stay in business.