Background
The EU-German GATE Project is a technical assistance programme funded by the European Union and the Government of Germany to support Cambodian exporters’ access to international markets through market-opening measures and trade-skills development. Cambodia plans to put its electronic phytosanitary certification platform (ePhyto System) into official operation (Go-Live) at the end of 2026.
On the morning of 22 September 2026, senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) joined a fourth Programme Steering Committee meeting for the EU-German GATE Project at the Ministry of Commerce, chaired by the Ministry of Commerce Secretariat of State. The committee review brought together representatives from relevant ministries, state agencies and the private sector to assess technical progress on systems and capacity-building measures supporting agricultural export facilitation.
Key Developments
MAFF reported concrete technical milestones for the ePhyto System, including completion of e-payment functional testing with ACLEDA Bank and initial data-exchange testing with Thailand via ASW/CNSW. Delegates also noted preparations for connectivity with Indonesia and ongoing training programmes for government officials and private-sector users. The PSC review focused on readiness steps ahead of the planned Go-Live at the end of 2026.
Institutional Role
MAFF participated in the PSC through its Department of International Cooperation and technical directorates responsible for plant health and export standards. The ministry’s role in the project centers on implementing electronic phytosanitary certification, coordinating cross-border data exchange protocols, and delivering user training for exporters and inspection authorities.
Market Impact
Project documents and MAFF statements identify objectives to open international market access, strengthen trade-related skills, and improve efficiency and traceability for Cambodian agricultural exports. Stakeholders at the meeting highlighted the alignment of technical systems with international trade facilitation mechanisms supported by the EU-German partnership.
