Lionel Maitrepierre: “Sericulture and Culture: Two Levers for Sustainable Tourism”

On the occasion of the launch of Destination Eco Talents, an initiative led by the OIF to promote green and responsible entrepreneurship in Francophone countries, we met with Lionel Maitrepierre.

Lionel Maitrepierre

Based in Siem Reap for several years, this French entrepreneur combines expertise in crop protection, a passion for Cambodian silk, and a commitment to Francophonie. He spoke to us about his projects, his encounters, and the momentum these two days have given him.

Lionel, could you introduce yourself and explain what led you to take part in the launch of Destination Eco Talents?

I am an entrepreneur here in Siem Reap, working in two fields that may seem quite different at first glance but are actually connected through environmental respect. On one hand, I run a pest control business, and on the other, I develop sericulture projects. I am also the Secretary General of the France–Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, which keeps me actively involved in economic exchanges between the two countries.

It is in this context that I came to participate in these two days of information sessions on the Destination Eco Talents program. Very quickly, I realized that I also have concrete projects that fit perfectly within this initiative.

What are the projects you would like to develop under this initiative?

My main project is to reintroduce silk moths here in Siem Reap—within resorts, private homes, and green spaces. Siem Reap has a variety of native plant species on which these moths can naturally thrive. This provides a practical and almost educational starting point to raise awareness among both residents and visitors.

At the same time, the idea is to develop, on a larger scale outside the city, a sericulture program focused on producing tussah or even muga silk—wild silks that are highly valued for both their artisanal quality and their connection to local biodiversity.

It is a project with strong economic potential, but it also carries real ecological and cultural value.

Beyond the program presentation, what did you gain from these two days?

It was very constructive. There were many ideas circulating and rich discussions that helped better understand the challenges and compare perspectives with other stakeholders in the region. These kinds of exchanges are valuable—because often we work in isolation and lose sight of what is happening around us.

What struck me the most, however, was meeting stakeholders such as those from the APSARA Authority. They are key partners here, major actors in the heritage and territorial management of Siem Reap, and they could play a very interesting role in the projects we are developing. These kinds of connections can truly move things forward.

Francophonie is a core pillar of Destination Eco Talents. Is this an area you were already familiar with?

Yes, I was already well informed in this area because I am actively involved in promoting Francophonie, particularly through the Chamber of Commerce.

We organize Francophone markets and support initiatives in this direction, and it goes hand in hand with economic development. The French language as a vector for commercial exchange is very much a concrete reality here.

Do you plan to submit other projects?

Yes, absolutely. These two days have generated new ideas—it creates work, because everything now needs to be structured! But I am seriously considering submitting a second project, this time in the field of art.

I run a small video gallery dedicated to Cambodian artists, particularly young talents, and I believe there is potential to build something within this framework to support and promote local artistic creation. It would be a strong complement to the sericulture project: nature on one side, culture on the other.

Interview conducted during the launch of Destination Eco Talents — Siem Reap, late 2025.