A recent surveillance study of foodborne antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Cambodia has revealed an urgent need for stricter regulations on antimicrobial use in the country’s livestock sector. Carried out under the FAO-implemented and Republic of Korea-funded Action to support implementation of Codex AMR texts (ACT) project, the study also underscores the importance of routine AMR monitoring, and the adoption of targeted interventions, such as improved biosecurity measures and vaccination programmes, to reduce the need of antibiotics and mitigate the spread of resistance.

The study was carried out as part of the project’s core pillar of improved surveillance of foodborne AMR, in line with the Codex Guidelines on integrated monitoring and surveillance of foodborne antimicrobial resistance (CXG 94-2021).

Since the project inception in 2021, the ACT project has supported laboratory upgrade and personnel training, making this AMR surveillance study possible. In 2024, sample collection was conducted in Prey Veng, Kampong Cham, and Pursat provinces – key livestock production areas where AMR monitoring is critical. Samples were collected from chicken and pig farms, as well as from environmental and biological sources, following internationally standardized procedures outlined in Codex guidelines. This approach ensured the collection of representative samples, providing reliable data on foodborne AMR.  The study offered the opportunity not only of gathering vital data on the prevalence of foodborne AMR, but it also provided training opportunities for provincial veterinary officers in AMR sample collection techniques. In total, 360 samples were taken, 120 per province, from 10 pig farms and 10 chicken farms in each province.

Samples were tested for bacterial contamination, particularly E. coli and Salmonella. The results were consistent with findings from other low- and middle-income countries, The data showed variations in bacterial prevalence among the provinces, indicating a need for targeted interventions to address foodborne pathogens in livestock production. Additionally, antimicrobial resistance profiles of E. coli were also tested, and the samples were found to be resistant to commonly used antibiotics, including ampicillin, tetracycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, emphasizing the urgency of strengthening antimicrobial stewardship and biosecurity measures in the livestock sector in these areas.

Dr Chea Rortana, who collected the samples in the field, said "Field sample collection is the foundation of effective AMR surveillance. Proper planning, strict biosecurity adherence, and precise methodology in collecting samples from different farm environments are critical to obtaining accurate data. Our work in Kampong Cham, Pursat, and Prey Veng provinces has demonstrated the importance of consistency and rigorous protocol in sample handling and transportation. By refining our field sampling techniques, we strengthen the integrity of our research and contribute valuable insights into antimicrobial resistance in livestock production."

The results of this study provide Cambodian authorities with the essential data to develop and implement targeted policy responses in order to slow the spread of resistance across Cambodia generally, and these provinces in particular. Looking ahead, Cambodia plans to extend sample collection efforts in Takeo, Kampot, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chnnang, Battambang and Siem Reap in 2025, further strengthening its AMR surveillance.

“AMR surveillance is the first step in containing foodborne AMR. Without data, we cannot identify where to start or where the challenges lie. I am pleased that Cambodia has received support in laboratory capacity building and has now participated in surveillance studies. This activity must continue,” said Myoengsin Choi, the project coordinator of the ACT project. 

By reinforcing AMR surveillance, Cambodia is taking critical steps toward mitigating the threat of antimicrobial resistance in food production, ultimately contributing to safer food systems.

The ACT project is being implemented in six countries: Bolivia (Plurinational State of), Colombia, Cambodia, Mongolia, Nepal and Pakistan.

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ACT project
Codex Guidelines on integrated monitoring and surveillance of foodborne antimicrobial resistance (CXG 94-2021)

Photo © NAHPRI laboratory, 2025