On behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, I wish to take this opportunity to extend my warmest welcome to all distinguished delegates and international guests to the 3RD ASEAN RUBBER CONFERENCE. Cambodia is emerging into the dawn of a new era in its economic development and warmly welcomes foreign investment into the country. It is therefore befitting that Cambodia is hosting this year's conference which serves as a platform for delegates from all segments of the rubber industry to meet and exchange experience and insight as well as to explore new investment opportunities

Rubber has been planted for almost a century in Cambodia. Steady growth of production in recent years is the result of the rigorous land reform and utilisation policies of the Royal Government, implemented through its agencies to sustain and expand the industry. These policies are implemented with the longer and broader term view to promote business and investments in the agricultural sector in Cambodia and it have contributed positively for the national economic growth of the country.

The Royal Government of Cambodia is committed to continue implementing these reforms through sound economic and social policies in order to promote a favourable business environment in the country under the atmosphere of political stability and peace - the key pre-requisites for Cambodia to further progress with its enduring efforts in developing the nation and forming a viable foundation for long-term economic growth.

Beyond its economic potential, rubber plants have become an excellent green canopy preventing land erosion, increasing underground water sources, maintaining natural biodiversity and protecting the local environment.

The Cambodian rubber industry will bolster its efforts in technological application to improve rubber quality in order to be able to compete with other companies in the international arena. As a member of ASEAN, Cambodia will continue its good cooperation with neighboring countries in the region.

With all the potentials that Cambodia can offer, I am pleased that the ASEAN RUBBER CONFERENCE is making its stopover in Phnom Penh this year. I believe the highly pertinent and compelling programs, meticulously planned by the organizers, will no doubt benefit all delegates attending and also provide an excellent opportunity for everyone in the rubber community to discuss commercial prospects and seize new opportunities.

I am confident that all delegates will have a beneficial and enjoyable conference in the beautiful and beguiling city of Phnom Penh and again, I would like to extend my warmest welcome and wish that all delegates will have an enjoyable stay in Angkor’s motherland.

H.E. DR. CHAN SARUN
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Royal Government of Cambodia