Farm Link: Discovering Kampot Pepper

Farm Link provides an engaging glimpse into the cultivation and production of Kampot pepper, a spice with a rich history and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. Established in 2006, Farm Link works with local farmers to promote sustainable agriculture and connect them with international markets. Visitors can take a free guided tour of the pepper garden to learn about the different varieties of pepper (green, black, white, and red), the traditional farming methods used, and the natural drying processes. The tours, available in Khmer, English, and French, also include pepper tastings and demonstrations of pepper processing and sorting. You'll gain insights into why Kampot pepper is celebrated by chefs and gourmets worldwide. Kampot pepper's history dates back to the 13th century, with intensive production initiated during French colonial rule in the 1870s. By the 1960s, Kampot boasted around 1 million pepper poles, producing approximately 3,000 tons annually. However, the Cambodian Civil War severely impacted production, with only 4 tons harvested by the late 1990s. Farm Link has played a crucial role in revitalizing the industry, assisting local farmers in reviving their plantations and adhering to strict organic cultivation processes. Today, Kampot pepper is once again recognized as the 'King of Pepper'.