In Cambodia, fish is an important diet staple, accounting for 61% of households’ animal protein intake and the second most consumed food after rice. Average fish consumption is 63kg/person/year.
In 2014, the country’s total fish production was 745 065 metric tons, of which aquaculture contributed one-sixth (120 055 metric tons) and was valued at USD 240 million (FAO).
Freshwater fisheries are an integral part of the country’s culture, economy, and food security, and are vital source of food for rural people (FAO). Overall, the fisheries sector provides employment to 2 million people, of which 10,000 people work in the marine fishery sector.