Culture Ministry Receives 40 Pieces of Hold Pidan from Japanese NGO
Phnom Penh, February 05, 2025 --A Japanese NGO, Caring for Young Khmer (CYK), led by its Director Ms. Harumi Sekiguchi, has handed over 40 pieces of Hol Pidan, to the Cambodian Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts to be displayed at the National Museum of Cambodia.The handover ceremony took place here at the National Museum of Cambodia on Feb. 4 under the presidency of H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts and H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia.The donation is aimed to ensure the sustainability of the preservation, care and promotion of the exquisite and unique heritage of Khmer silk weaving, as well as to provide access and convenience to Cambodian silk weavers who wish to study the forms and designs on silk fabrics, said the Ministry of Culture in a news release.In 2014, Ms. Harumi Sekiguchi handed over Hol Pidan to the National Museum of Cambodia twice – the first time with 23 pieces and the second time with 2 pieces.“The museum sincerely hopes that the public will consider the possibility of donating other artifacts to the museum as national treasures, as the Japanese team did today, as these artifacts will become living documents for the dissemination and study of the intangible heritage left behind by our Khmer ancestors,” read the news release.Last year, residents of Prey Kabbas district in Takeo province donated three pieces of Hol Pidan to the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Asian Traditional Textiles Museum in Siem Reap province.Hold Pidan generally depicts stories and patterns that hold cultural significance in Cambodian society.
Cambodia Eyes World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index
Phnom Penh, February 05, 2025 --The Council for the Development of Cambodia has sought standard of the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI) aiming to improve the logistics sector in Cambodia and to become a logistics hub full of potential and highly competitive in the region.A meeting, held here on Feb. 4 at the CDC and co-chaired by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and the CDC First Vice President, and H.E. Ms. Tania Meyer, the World Bank’s Country Manager for Cambodia, brought key government officials and World Bank representatives to review and discuss the methodology and procedures for collecting data for the “Logistics Performance Index (LPI)”.The methodology and procedures for collecting data to determine the LPI presented at the meeting were prepared and compiled by World Bank experts.The LPI has six indicators – efficiency of customs and border management clearance, quality of trade and transport infrastructure, ease of arranging competitively priced shipments, competence and quality of logistics services, ability to track and trace consignments, and frequency of on-time deliveries.H.E. Sun Chanthol asked the World Bank experts to provide further explanations as a basis for the Royal Government of Cambodia to determine the relevant framework and policies in line with the trend of determining the global LPI.He also requested all relevant actors to continue their cooperation and requested support from the World Bank on improving the logistics sector in Cambodia.For her part, H.E. Ms. Tania Meyer expressed her strong commitment to joining the Royal Government in promoting Cambodia to become a logistics hub full of potential and highly competitive in the region.
Cambodia Strengthens Microfinance Sector with Borrower Protection Practices
Phnom Penh, February 5, 2025 --The Cambodian Microfinance Association (CMA) is committed to collaborating with both national and international partners to safeguard vulnerable populations and maintain microfinance as a valuable tool for economic empowerment.Since 2024, the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) and the United Nations (UN) have led a significant consultation to address key challenges within Cambodia’s microfinance sector, including over-indebtedness, land-related financial risks, and consumer protection.This initiative, now in its active phase, engages over one hundred stakeholders from government bodies, civil society, financial institutions, and development partners to enhance lending practices and ensure the sector’s long-term sustainability.The CMA is committed to working alongside our partners to ensure that microfinance in Cambodia continues to serve those in need,” said Mrs. Dith Nita, Chairwoman of the CMA.“We recognise the challenges borrowers face and are actively working to improve lending practices and strengthen consumer protections. Our efforts aim to empower borrowers to make informed decisions while safeguarding their rights,” Mrs. Dith Nita said.The CMA is addressing several critical issues, including the implementation of enhanced lending standards. In partnership with the NBC and the UN, the CMA is supporting reforms to ensure that loans are granted based on a borrower’s ability to repay, rather than relying solely on collateral.A key measure involves prohibiting the use of Indigenous Communal Land Titles (ICLTs) as collateral, thereby protecting vulnerable communities from the risk of land loss.Additionally, the CMA is supporting the expansion of the Financial Consumer Centre under the Association of Banks in Cambodia (ABC), which provides borrowers with access to dispute resolution services and enhanced protections.The CMA is also advancing financial literacy programmes, particularly targeting women and rural communities through the Safe Community Finance Project, to help borrowers make informed financial decisions and reduce the risk of over indebtedness.“Together with our partners, we are working to build a financial sector that is inclusive and offers meaningful opportunities for Cambodia’s most vulnerable populations. Our goal is to equip borrowers with the tools needed to succeed financially while protecting them from financial risks,” she added.These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of poverty reduction, gender equality, and financial inclusion, ensuring that Cambodia’s microfinance sector remains a powerful engine of economic growth and opportunity.As the consultation progresses, the CMA urges all stakeholders—investors, policymakers, regulators, civil society, financial institutions, and development partners—to unite in shaping Cambodia’s microfinance sector.“Through collective action, we can ensure that vulnerable populations are protected and that microfinance continues to empower and provide economic opportunities for all Cambodians,” underlined CMA.
Permanent DPM Vongsey Vissoth Meets Japanese Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications
Phnom Penh, February 04, 2025 --H.E. Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Ministers in Charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, held talks in Tokyo, Japan on Feb. 3 with H.E. Murakami Seiichiro, Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan.In the meeting, H.E. Vongsey Vissoth underscored Japan’s key role in Cambodia’s peacebuilding process and development efforts.Through this close relationship, Japan and the Japanese people hold a special place in the hearts of the Cambodian people, he said.The Permanent DPM also laid stress on the Royal Government of Cambodia’s dedication to governance reforms, including public administration reform, public financial management reform, and legal and judicial reform.He expressed his gratitude to the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications for its support and cooperation with Cambodia, especially the Office of the Council of Ministers.For his part, H.E. Murakami Seiichiro praised the efforts of the Royal Government of Cambodia, shared relevant knowledge and experiences, and expressed his support for Cambodian key reform initiatives.During his stay in Japan, H.E. Vongsey Vissoth will continue meeting with Japanese leaders to learn about Japan’s governing system and to exchange knowledge and experience to strengthen the Council of Ministers’ functions and duties.H.E. Vongsey Vissoth has been on a nine-day visit to Japan since Feb. 1 to further deepen the bilateral cooperation and friendship between the two countries for the benefit of development and people-to-people relations.
First Deputy Speaker of Hungarian NA to Visit Cambodia This Week
Phnom Penh, February 03, 2025 --H.E. Ms. Marta Matrai, First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) of Hungary, will lead a high-level delegation to pay an official and friendly visit to Cambodia this week, from Feb. 5 to 9, to deepen the cooperation between both countries' parliaments, both in bilateral and multilateral frameworks.According to an announcement of the General Secretariat of the Cambodian NA released this evening, during the five-day visit, H.E. Ms. Mata Matrai will pay a courtesy call on Cambodian Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and Cambodian NA President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary.Moreover, she is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with H.E. Kittisethapundit Cheam Yeap, First Vice President of the Cambodian NA, and hold working discussions with H.E. Suos Yara, Chairman of the NA's Committee on Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Information.Besides, H.E. Ms. Mata Matrai planned to visit the Royal Palace, take a boat ride on the Mekong River, and visit ancient temples in Siem Reap province.
Ministry of Commerce, ABA Partner to Advance Fintech Sector
Phnom Penh, February 03, 2025 --The Ministry of Commerce and ABA Bank have formalised strategic cooperation to develop financial sector in Cambodia.A memorandum of understanding on cooperation on a strategic partnership was signed here on Feb. 3 under the presidency of H.E. Buon Sarakmony, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce with relevant leaders and officials of the Ministry of Commerce as well as leaders of ABA Bank in attendance.This memorandum aims to promote and provide support in various forms of cooperation on strategic partnerships to contribute to the development of the financial technology sector in Cambodia to be more dynamic and aligned with national policies and trends.The online payment for the Secured Transaction Filing Office (SETFO) was also introduced on the occasion.The Ministry of Commerce has collaborated with ABA Bank to integrate online payment for the first time for the SETFO system, which aims to provide convenience, flexibility, and security for SETFO users to ensure the efficiency of the Ministry of Commerce in providing public services to citizens.This collaboration will facilitate SETFO users in paying public service fees for using the system through their ABA Mobile App, without having to pay in person at the Ministry of Commerce.
Canada to Upgrade Diplomatic Mission to Embassy This Year
Phnom Penh, February 03, 2025 --Canada will upgrade its presence in Phnom Penh to a full embassy with resident ambassador in 2025, in line with Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau's announcement at the 2024 ASEAN Leader's Summit in Vientiane, Lao PDR.According to a press release of the Office of the Embassy of Canada to Cambodia, Canada has important history of supporting international efforts to bring peace and stability to Cambodia. Canada estimates that over 1,000 Canadian soldiers have served in Cambodia since 1954.Canada’s bilateral relations with Cambodia have been significant in recent year. Canada is Cambodia’s 10th largest donor of Overseas Development Assistance at US$23.1 million CAD in 2022-2023. Canada provided the financial assistance required to organise the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (also known as the Ottawa Convention) Review Conference in Siem Reap in November 2024, at which Canada announced an additional US$2.1 million to add to its over US$50 million of support for Cambodia to clear landmines and unexploded ordinance.Canada is Cambodia’s seventh largest trade partner. In 2023, Cambodia exported US$2.1 billion of merchandise to Canada. Over 60 Canadian business leaders will visit Phnom Penh this May for trade mission.Cambodia and Canada established their diplomatic relations in 1952, even before Cambodia gained independence from France.
Ministry of Commerce Expanding Cashew Nuts and Pepper Exports
Phnom Penh, January 31, 2025 —H.E. Samheng Bora, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Commerce and Chairman of the Export Promotion Task Force, met here on Jan. 29 with Mr. Akira SASAKI, Managing Director of Inoue Calcium Corporation to discuss the promotion of exports of cashew nuts and pepper exports to Japan.The meeting was attended by the ministry’s senior officials, Mr. Vu Van MANH, President and CEO of BMC Group, and Mrs. Muth Chakrya, Founder and Chairwoman of Handcrafted Cashew Nuts Stung Treng.The meeting focused on expanding the export potential of Cambodian processed cashew nuts and pepper to the Japanese market while exploring investment opportunities in Cambodia’s agro-processing sector.H.E. Samheng Bora reaffirmed the Export Promotion Task Force’s dedication to strengthening the competitiveness of Cambodian agricultural products by upholding high processing standards, fostering innovation, and ensuring compliance with Japanese market requirements.This collaboration aligns with Cambodia’s broader strategy to diversify export markets and attract foreign investment, ultimately enhancing the agricultural value chain, he said.
Insurance Sector Logs US$356 Million in Gross Premium in 2024
Phnom Penh, February 01, 2025 --The insurance industry has reported a gross premium of US$356.4 million in 2024, an increase of 3.5 percent compared to 2023, a report of the Insurance Regulator of Cambodia (IRC) showed.The source indicated that the total amount of claims incurred was approximately US$79.7 million last year, marking an increase of 18.9 percent from US$67 million a year earlier.The insurance industry currently possesses over US$1 billion in total assets.IRC Director General H.E. Bou Chanphirou stated that the insurance sector is playing a vital role in supporting the social security system and is actively contributing to national economic development.“The insurance penetration and insurance density numbers illustrate that the Cambodian insurance market has potential room for further growth. There is also a need for public outreach and education on the benefits and advantages of insurance,” he said.The Kingdom’s insurance penetration stood at 1.16 percent of the gross domestic product in 2023, with the insurance density at US$21 per person, he pointed out.The Cambodian insurance market has 18 general insurance companies, 14 life insurance companies, seven microinsurance companies, one re-insurance company, 20 insurance brokers, 39 insurance agents, three loss adjustors, two claim managements and one actuarial company.
Cambodia, Azerbaijan to Forge Health Cooperation Agreement
Phnom Penh, January 31, 2025 -- Cambodian and Azerbaijan are committed to forging collaboration in the health sector by studying the possibility of having a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU).The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting here on Jan. 30 between Cambodian Health Minister H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra and Ambassador of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom H.E. Shovgi Mehdizade in Phnom Penh.The MoU would focus on sharing knowledge and experience in cancer, tuberculosis, environmental health, and so on.H.E. Minister and H.E. Ambassador expressed high appreciation for the rapid development in Cambodia and Azerbaijan, and viewed the MoU as an important tool to boost the health cooperation between the two countries.
Cambodian Minister of Commerce Pays Courtesy Call on Lao Prime Minister
Phnom Penh, January 29, 2025 --H.E Mrs. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, on the sidelines of the Second Cambodia-Laos Joint Trade Committee Meeting in Vientiane, Lao PDR on Jan. 28.During the courtesy call, H.E. Mrs. Cham Nimul briefed the Lao Premier on the results of the Second Cambodia-Laos Joint Trade Committee Meeting, in which the two sides are committed to further boost the two-way trade exchange.They agreed to review the potential of trade cooperation and vowed to increase bilateral trade volume; examine the possibility of establishing various mechanisms to expand bilateral trade volume; study the possibility of establishing an annual meeting mechanism of the border provincial administrations of the two countries to promote trade and review other initiatives agreed upon by both countries’ top leaders, including transport infrastructure; and promote exhibitions, business and investment forums, tourism, logistics, and cooperation between the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry.For his part, H.E. Sonexay Siphandone expressed his support to the results and initiatives discussed by the two Ministers of Commerce and encouraged relevant ministries and institutions as well as border provincial administrations to continue their cooperation more actively to boost the growth of trade and investment between both neighbouring nations.
Cambodia, Azerbaijan Discuss Bilateral Cooperation in Environmental Protection
Phnom Penh, January 29, 2025 --H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Cambodian Minister of Environment and H.E. Shovgi Mehdizada, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Cambodia, discussed the strengthening of the two countries’ cooperation, mainly in the field of environment, during their courtesy meeting here on Jan. 27.According to the ministry, H.E. Shovgi Mehdizada expressed his interest in the potential for cooperation in the environmental sector between the two countries, Cambodia and Azerbaijan.H.E. Shovgi Mehdizada said he noted new potentials that contribute to preventing climate change, conserving biodiversity and the environment.H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth agreed with H.E. Ambassador's assessment of Cambodia and voiced support for his remarks on increasing cooperation between Cambodia and Azerbaijan in the environmental sector.H.E. Minister informed his guest of the ministry’s different campaigns such as “Today, I do not use plastic bags”, “Clean Cambodia, Khmer can do” and so on to promote environmental protection, natural resources conservation and sustainable development through three angles – Clean, Green, and Sustainable.
Cambodia’s Trade with ASEAN Up 12.4 percent in 2024
Phnom Penh, January 28, 2025 --Cambodia’s trade volume with other ASEAN member states reached US$15.69 billion in 2024, up 12.4 percent from US$13.96 billion in the previous year, a report from the Ministry of Commerce showed.The country exported US$5.07 billion worth of products to ASEAN countries last year, up 7.6 percent from US$4.71 billion recorded in 2023, the report said.At the same time, the country’s imports from ASEAN countries were amounted to US$10.62 billion, up 14.8 percent from US$9.25 billion in 2023, the source added.The report pointed out that Cambodia’s trade with ASEAN accounted for 28.3 percent of the country’s total trade volume of US$55.3 billion in 2024.Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia were Cambodia’s top five trading partners in ASEAN during the above-mentioned period.
Ministry of Commerce Seeks to Boost More Rice Exports to Japan
Phnom Penh, January 26, 2025 --H.E. Samheng Bora, Secretary State at the Ministry of Commcerce and Chairman of the Export Promotion Task Force, conducted on Jan. 23-24 high-level discussions with Japan's top three leading rice importers, centering on enhancing Cambodian rice exports to the Japanese market.He underscored the Ministry of Commerce's dedication to expanding agricultural exports through the Export Promotion Task Force, emphasising the Royal Government’s efforts to align Cambodian rice with international quality standards, and outlined a broader vision of fostering trade relations and exploring new avenues for cooperation between the two nations.Japanese companies expressed strong interest in Cambodia’s rice sector, acknowledging its potential and demonstrating optimism about introducing Cambodian rice to their supply chains.Both parties expressed positive and collaborative note, reaffirming a shared commitment to promoting Cambodian rice in Japan and strengthening bilateral trade ties.The Japan's top three leading rice importers collectively hold 80 percent of the Japanese market share; among them was ITOCHU Corporation, Japan’s largest rice importer.Cambodia exported some 651,000 tonnes of milled rice to international markets last year, a slight decrease of 0.7 percent from 656,000 tonnes in 2023, according to a report from the Cambodia Rice Federation.The Kingdom earned US$491 million from rice export in 2024, up 5.3 percent from US$466 million recorded in 2023.
Mobile Public Service Counters for Job Seekers Officially Launched
Phnom Penh, January 24, 2025 --The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MoLVT) has officially launched its Mobile Public Service Counters to provide information for those who are looking for jobs locally and abroad in a fast, easy and safe manner.The launching ceremony for the first 100 counters was held at the ministry office in Phnom Penh on Jan. 23 under the presidency of H.E. Heng Sour, Minister of Labour and Vocational Training.Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Heng Sour said that the MoLVT’s Mobile Public Service Counter is aimed to bring the ministry’s public services closer to the citizens in order to promote the development of digital citizens and the provision of official, reliable, and timely important services and information to the public."Mobile Public Service Counter is a tool that gathers all relevant information in the fields of labour, social security, and vocational training to provide convenience to students, company employees, workers, employers, factories, enterprises, and the public in receiving the ministry's public services at nearby public locations,” H.E. Minister said.The Mobile Public Service Counters for Job Seekers will be installed at universities, training institutes, supermarkets, cafés, and so on.
Japan Supports Cambodia with 29 Infectious Waste Incinerators
Phnom Penh, January 24, 2025 --The Government of Japan has handed over 29 infectious waste incinerators, as part of its Project for Improvement of Infectious Waste Management, to the Cambodian Ministry of Health.Cambodian Minister of Health H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Cambodia H.E. Ueno Atsushi chaired the symbolic handover event at the ministry on Jan. 22.H.E. Prof. Chheang Ra thanked the people and government of Japan as well as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the infectious waste incinerators, which are important in enhancing Cambodia's health infrastructure and the environment of hospitals in the country.The facilities will reduce hospital infections, increase treatment effectiveness, reduce drug-resistant bacteria, and shorten the length of hospital stays, he said.
Cambodia Sees Significant Growth in Air Passengers in 2024
Phnom Penh, January 23, 2025 --Cambodia’s aviation sector experienced a remarkable surge in 2024 with the three international airports collectively handling a record high of 6.2 million passengers, according to a report from the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA).The airports saw an increase of 14 percent of flight movements to 58,354 last year, said the report, adding that air cargo transport reached nearly 80,000 tonnes, an increase of 40 percent compared to 2023.SSCA’s Secretary of State and Spokesperson H.E. Sinn Chanserey Vutha attributed the airports’ positive performance to the government’s proactive measures in facilitating air travel and collaborative efforts of the airlines.“After the COVID-19 pandemic eased, flight connections gradually began to reopen, and security and attractive tourism policies have led to increased demand and flight connections,” he said.The aviation sector in Cambodia has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, driven by increased demand for air travel and government initiatives to modernise the country’s airport infrastructure.Under the open sky policy, the Royal Government of Cambodia’s efforts to improve airport infrastructure and enhance aviation services have also contributed to the sector’s growth.The country is adding new flight routes and expanding its aviation sector to boost tourism and air connectivity.There are 31 national and international airlines operating flights to and from the three international airports, including 131 flights to and from Phnom Penh International Airport per day, 52 flights to and from Siem Reap Angkor International Airport per day, and 6 flights to and from Sihanoukville International Airport per day, according to the report.
Filipino Women Entrepreneurs Seek to Expand Cooperation with Cambodian Counterparts
Phnom Penh, January 23, 2025 --A delegation of Women's Business Council of the Philippines led by its Chairperson Ms. Rosemarie P. Rafael has been on a visit to Cambodia to expand cooperation and business ties with Cambodian women entrepreneurs.On Jan. 22 at Kravanh Restaurant, Phnom Penh, the delegation attended a reception dinner hosted by H.E. Ing Kantha Phavi, Minister of Women’s AffairsThe event aims to provide women entrepreneurs from both countries (Women's Biz of Cambodia and the Philippines) with the opportunity to connect, exchange business experiences, and build business matchmaking in key areas, including agriculture, industry, handicrafts, education, health, tourism, transportation and logistics, retail business, and manufacturing, said the Ministry of Women’s Affairs.On that occasion, the source added, H.E. Minister warmly welcomed and discussed important work with the Philippine delegation as well as Cambodian women entrepreneurs to explore the possibilities and opportunities for doing business and trade between the two countries.Ms. Rosemarie P. Rafael and her delegation recognised opportunities and support in launching future collaborations and business relationships with Cambodian women entrepreneurs.
NBC Launches BAKONG Tourists App with VISA
Phnom Penh, January 22, 2025 --The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) today launched the BAKONG Tourists App with VISA allowing users to link their VISA cards, enabling effortless fund transfers and cashless payments via KHQR Codes.The launching ceremony was held at the NBC (Sen Sok) in the presence of H.E Dr. Chea Serey, NBC Governor, and Mr. Dith Sochal, Chief Executive Officer of Foreign Trade Bank of Cambodia, with the participation of relevant officials from both sides.The launch of the “BAKONG Tourists App with VISA” aligns with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s policies aimed at fostering a digital economy and an inclusive society, the NBC governor said.“It strengthens Cambodia’s position as a forward-thinking nation while offering international tourists a safer, more efficient way to explore our country,” she said. This feature boosts efficiency, eliminates the need for cash, and enhances the travel experience across Cambodia, H.E. Dr. Chea Serey added.The NBC’s BAKONG Tourists App, launched in August 2024, aims to simplify digital payments for international tourists and local businesses. It empowers users with quick and easy account top-ups, seamless digital payments, and a user-friendly interface.By showcasing local businesses, cultural landmarks and authentic experiences, the app fosters deeper engagement with our nation’s rich heritage and hospitality.Recent advancements in cross-border payment technology have transformed the global financial landscape. With seamless transactions across borders and currencies, the integration of innovative technologies and enhanced regulatory frameworks, businesses and consumers alike can now enjoy faster, more secured payment options.These developments not only streamline payment processes but also foster greater financial inclusion, empowering individuals and small businesses to actively participate in the global economy.NBC is committed to modernising its payment systems, whilst prioritising interoperability and security, to meet the needs of both local citizens and businesses, as well as international travellers exploring our vibrant country, said H.E. Dr. Chea Serey.
Guizhou’s Technological Transformation Inspires Partnerships with Cambodian SMEs
On January 16, 2025, Minister HEM Vanndy received a business delegation from the Guizhou Internet Association at the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) to discuss advancing technological innovation tailored to the needs of Cambodia’s small and medium enterprises.During the meeting, Mr. Yu Junfang, President of the Guizhou Internet Association, highlighted Guizhou’s transformation into a leader in China’s digital economy. Once considered a lagging region, Guizhou has become a hub of innovation within a decade, leveraging AI and 5G technologies to modernize its industries and local economy.The delegation, comprising a diverse technology companies, proposed applying their expertise to tailor solutions for Cambodia’s industries, showcasing successful projects in tourism, medical technology, and digital economy platforms.“We would like to organize a business-matching event connecting Chinese technology firms with Cambodian SMEs to foster knowledge transfer and partnerships,” Mr. Yu Junfang said, adding that the association planned to jointly launch tech initiatives with Cambodia during Cambodia’s 3rd National STI Day scheduled for March 26, 2025.Minister Vanndy commended Guizhou’s success as an inspiring model, emphasizing its relevance to Cambodia’s socio-economic ambitions as it prepares to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status in 2029.He emphasized that Cambodia is working to diversify its economy and enhance productivity by equipping local industries with advanced technologies, taking advantage of its youthful demographic and aligning with the government's focus on technological innovation.The Minister also expressed strong support for targeting small and medium-sized Chinese tech companies that could adapt solutions to Cambodian contexts. He assured the delegation of Cambodia’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for partnerships, driven by a young and dynamic government keen on building and connecting a robust innovation ecosystem between the two countries.