Kampong Thom Province Launches Pilot Project to Enhance Street Food Hygiene

• Sommana Yan
• 28 May 2025
• Local News
• 1083 Views

In a significant move to improve public health and bolster tourism, the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, in collaboration with the Kampong Thom Provincial Authorities, has officially launched a pilot project aimed at elevating street food hygiene standards.

The launch ceremony took place on May 24, 2025, and was presided over by HE Hem Vandy, the Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Chair of the Informal Economy Development Coordination Committee. Approximately 3,000 informal economy workers attended the event, marking a strong community presence in support of the initiative.

HE Nuon Pharath, the Governor of Kampong Thom Province, emphasized the importance of the project during his remarks. He called on the coordination committee to lead efforts in providing street food vendors with the knowledge and resources necessary to implement best hygiene practices. The initiative aims not only to safeguard public health but also to enhance the overall appeal of Kampong Thom as a tourist destination.

Minister Hem Vandy highlighted that the project will focus on basic hygiene principles, including proper food handling, waste management, and safe food storage practices. “By adopting simple hygiene measures, we can protect consumers while also creating new business opportunities for street vendors, thereby enhancing the image of our Kampong Thom province,” he stated.

As part of the pilot program, food hygiene experts will collaborate closely with local authorities and engage with various street food vendors who volunteer to participate. These experts will provide training sessions designed to instill effective food hygiene principles.

Kampong Thom Province, with its strong economic base in agriculture and tourism, stands to gain significantly from this initiative. The province is a popular stopover for travelers journeying between the capital city, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap, making food safety a crucial aspect of its tourism strategy.

As of May 21, 2025, the Digital Registration Center for Informal Economic Workers has received a total of 70,770 applications, with Kampong Thom ranking eighth among the provinces. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of the informal economy in supporting community livelihoods.

The pilot project is a pivotal step toward creating a safer, cleaner dining experience for both residents and visitors, ensuring that Kampong Thom remains a vibrant hub for street food enthusiasts.

• Policy and Strategy
• Tourism and Travelling