Background
On March 4, 2026, His Excellency Bin Trachay, Minister of Planning and Chair of the National Nutrition Council, authorized a meeting with Mr. Shawn K. Baker, Deputy Global Director for Programs and International Relations at Helen Keller International, along with colleagues. The meeting focused on collaboration and progress on Cambodia’s National Nutrition Strategy 2025-2030, particularly micronutrient fortification efforts and the roles of the National Nutrition Council.
Scope of Application
The discussion centered on the implementation of national policies related to micronutrient food fortification and coordination of relevant technical working groups operating under the National Nutrition Council, including inter-ministerial and national subcommittees addressing iodine deficiency and other micronutrient issues in Cambodia.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The National Nutrition Council has established three key technical working groups: (1) Inter-ministerial Technical Committee, (2) National Subcommittee on Micronutrient Fortification in Food, and (3) National Subcommittee on Iodine Deficiency Elimination. Under provincial-level coordination committees, four key micronutrient programs are currently underway: universal iodine fortification of salt, iron fortification of fish sauce and soy sauce, micronutrient fortification of rice, and ongoing studies on vitamin B1 fortification in iodized salt. Efforts are underway to seek additional development partner support for research on other appropriate micronutrient fortifications aligned with national policies.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The ongoing work of the National Nutrition Council and its subcommittees reflects Cambodia’s commitment to improving public health and nutrition through mandated micronutrient fortification programs. Businesses involved in food production and processing may be engaged in compliance with forthcoming fortification standards under national strategy frameworks. Development partners and researchers are also invited to support related activities to enhance nutrition nationwide.
Official Source
Ministry of Planning Facebook post, 5 March 2026
