PURSAT, April 22 – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment to attracting foreign investment, enhancing environmental protection, and ensuring long-term economic growth during the inauguration of the new Ford production line and sub-assembly plant by RMA (Cambodia) Plc. in Pursat Province.
Addressing dignitaries, business leaders, and the media at the event, Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted Cambodia’s readiness to support large-scale automotive investments, particularly in component assembly and electric vehicle (EV) production, with a focus on creating jobs, reducing vehicle costs, and boosting local industry.
Automotive Sector: Creating Jobs and Reducing Costs
The Prime Minister emphasised that the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) welcomes foreign direct investment in the automotive sector, especially in component assembly, as a strategy to create employment opportunities and offer the public access to affordable, internationally-standard vehicles.
“In some countries, businesses are facing increasing restrictions, prompting investors to leave. While those countries may be large, Cambodia offers something more valuable—stability and continuity,” he stated. “From one mandate to the next, we focus on reforms—streamlining procedures, reducing burdens, and simplifying regulations.”
Hun Manet cited Ford’s expansion in Cambodia, where the company has grown its local workforce from 160 to over 400 employees, as a direct result of such investor-friendly reforms. These efforts, he said, not only improve livelihoods but also contribute to a more circular economy.
Electric Vehicles and Infrastructure Expansion
In response to the growing use of electric vehicles (EVs) in Cambodia, especially in urban centres, the Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Mines and Energy to accelerate the development of EV charging stations along national roads.
“EVs are mostly used in cities and towns due to limited infrastructure in provinces. I urge the Ministry to work with private companies to expand the EV charging network while maintaining stringent safety and quality standards,” he said.
Highlighting past incidents where vehicles caught fire after being improperly converted to alternative fuels, the Prime Minister stressed that technical inspections must be thorough, and standards must be implemented with caution to preserve public trust and safety.
Safeguarding Natural Resources and Fisheries
Turning to environmental issues, Samdech Thipadei reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Cambodia’s natural resources, including forests and fish stocks in Tonle Sap Lake.
“We must take firm action to prevent the illegal exploitation of natural resources. Those who damage these resources without regard for the law must be held accountable,” he declared.
The Prime Minister praised the armed forces, police, and military police for their enforcement efforts and authorized officials to defend themselves if attacked, referencing previous incidents of violence against park rangers and law enforcement in protected areas.
In a bold policy shift, Hun Manet announced that once Parliament reconvenes, the government will re-enact the law related to fishing gear—including extending the allowable net length from 50 metres to up to 200 metres—to help small-scale fishermen without jeopardising sustainable fishery practices.
He urged large-scale operators to register and demarcate their fishing zones clearly to avoid negatively impacting local fishing communities, calling for an end to the use of fine-mesh nets that threaten Cambodia’s aquatic biodiversity.
Sustainable Development and Regulation of Extraction
Acknowledging the need to support national development through the use of resources such as sand and rocks, Hun Manet stressed that such extractions must be strictly regulated to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
“The extraction of natural resources must not compromise the future. Regulation and sustainable planning are essential,” he said.
Cambodia: An Investment Destination of Choice
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Hun Manet issued a strong call to global investors, positioning Cambodia as a prime destination for production expansion, especially in the automotive sector.
“I urge investors to choose Cambodia. We have peace, political stability, favourable macroeconomic conditions, and a young, dynamic population,” he noted.
He praised Ford’s long-standing commitment to Cambodia, citing the brand’s reputation for quality, durability, and affordability, which aligns well with local market demands. The Prime Minister also encouraged government institutions and consumers to prioritise locally assembled vehicles, which offer faster service, easier maintenance, and better value.
“Our government supports value and quality regardless of brand origin. But local assembly brings added advantages that benefit both the economy and consumers,” he concluded.
The event in Pursat marked a significant milestone in Cambodia’s journey toward industrialisation, sustainable development, and enhanced global integration. It underscored the Royal Government’s proactive approach to ensuring investor confidence, environmental stewardship, and socioeconomic progress under the leadership of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet.
