The Fisheries sector is one of the key drivers in sustaining and promoting Cambodia’s economic growth. Beyond that, this sector plays a significant role in ensuring sustainable food security, source of income, and providing employment opportunities for Cambodian people.

My name is Chav Soursdey, and I am the owner of Fisheries Processing Handicraft Chav Soursdey. My business started operating in 2022 as a family business, following a decade of my work with a private company in the agricultural sector, with a focus on aquaculture. This business was initiated from my dream and passion for food processing, particularly driven by the experience, knowledge, and skills I gained in the aquaculture sector. Initially, my first operation consisted of four part-time employees; by 2024, this number had expanded to eight employees. Starting from 2023, my products were distributed and supplied to 25 provinces/cities to various restaurants. Furthermore, in 2025, I scaled up production and processed more products, including Prahok Mondul, Prama Fish Mundul Powder, and Fish Mondul Powder.

As a business owner, accessing finance and raising funds to expand and develop my business was challenging because I lacked collateral to apply for a business loan. I had failed to obtain a business loan due to insufficient collateral and inadequate documentation. However, in 2024, I learned about the Investment Support Facility (ISF) project through the Post-Harvest Fisheries

Development Project (CAPFISH-CAPTURE), aiming to increase productivity and expand my business. With this favorable situation and the support of the project and CGCC as the fund manager, I seized the opportunity to explore applying for guaranteed loans. Then, Maybank, a Participating Financial Institution of CGCC, provided consultation to me on the guaranteed loan application.

CGCC’s guarantee significantly supports me to obtain a business loan. Most individuals and business owners like me already have collateral pledged at previous bank loans, making it less likely for us to seek additional financing. With this guaranteed loan and the fund support from the ISF, I gained the opportunity to expand my business operations, upgrade my infrastructure, and purchase equipment, which significantly boosted efficiency and productivity. As a result, I plan to release three product packaging sizes: 10g, 100g, and 200g portions. I hope to export my products to the internal market by 2026, as I now have sufficient equipment to produce in large quantities and ensure timely supply.

To successfully secure a business loan, I believe every business owner must demonstrate a strong commitment to preparing a comprehensive business plan, be aware of their business’s shortcomings, and necessary support mechanisms. More importantly, they should set clear business goals and plan the expenses based on the defined business plan, especially, maintaining financial records including monthly and annual income, expenses, profits, and losses.

Download PDF: Business Owner Who Received a Loan Guaranteed by CGCC under Post-Harvest Fisheries