Politics , LTD, ASIA, CAMBODIA, CAMBODIAN RICE FEDERATION, CCIC ( CAMBODIA ) CO, CCIC ( CAMBODIA ) CO., LTD, CHINA, CONSUMER PROTECTION, CRF, GOVERNMENT SUPPORT, MEXICO, NORTH AMERICA, SUPPLY CHAIN, TERRITORIAL DISPUTES, THAILAND, TRADE Nia Simpson June 30, 2025 0 Comments

Cambodia Responds to Controversy Over Rice Packaging in China

A controversy emerged over Cambodian rice packaging found in China.
Images showed Cambodian rice in bags featuring the Thai flag and Thai script.
The Cambodian Rice Federation launched an internal investigation into the matter.

Public Outrage Over Misleading Rice Packaging

Controversy surrounding rice packaging has ignited a public discussion in Cambodia and beyond, specifically regarding rice sold in China. Recent images circulated on social media revealed bags labeled as “Cambodian Jasmine Rice” prominently featuring the Thai flag and Thai script, which raised questions about misleading marketing practices. The association of Cambodian rice with Thai symbols led to an outcry, prompting users to voice concerns about consumer deception surrounding the rice’s origin, especially given Thailand’s reputation for high-quality jasmine rice.

Cambodian Rice Federation Issues Statement

In direct response to the unfolding situation, the Cambodian Rice Federation (CRF) released an official statement on June 29, 2025, outlining their position. They confirmed investigations were underway after reports surfaced indicating that Cambodian rice, bearing the controversial packaging, was indeed being sold in Chinese supermarkets. The CRF emphasized that they have reached out to all of their member exporters engaged in trading rice with China and have been collaborating with China’s export inspection authority, CCIC (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., to assess the specifics of this matter.

CRF Confirms No Connection to Thai Packaging

After their preliminary inquiry, the CRF found that the packaging in question was not utilized by any Cambodian exporters, firmly denying any involvement. They pointed out that the typical mode of packaging for Cambodian rice exported to China generally involves 25 kg or 50 kg sacks, diverging significantly from the 5 kg consumer-sized bags depicted in the viral images. The CRF made it clear in their statement that they adhere strictly to both trademark and fair competition laws, which disallow the use of national symbols such as flags of any country, reaffirming their dedication to ethical standards in trade.

In summary, the controversy surrounding Cambodian rice packaging in China highlights significant concerns over marketing practices and consumer awareness. The Cambodian Rice Federation has categorically denied any association with the misleading packaging and confirmed that it conducted an internal investigation into the matter. The federation remains committed to ethical trade practices and upholding their nation’s reputation in the global market.