ASEAN Digital Economy Forecasted to Surge to $2 Trillion by 2030
Prime Minister Hun Manet recently announced the potential for the ASEAN digital economy to expand from its current approximate $1 trillion value to $2 trillion by the year 2030.
During his speech at the ‘Digital Government Forum and Digital Technology Expo’ held in Phnom Penh, Hun Manet highlighted the significant growth anticipated in the digital sector of the region. This growth is expected to be propelled by collaborative efforts among ASEAN nations, including Cambodia, to foster the ‘ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement’.
Cambodia is actively pursuing digital development objectives that align with the ASEAN Digital Master Plan 2025 and the UNDP Digital Strategy for 2022-2025. Hun Manet emphasized the nation’s commitment to digital advancements, both regionally and globally, alongside ASEAN partners.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of advancing national digital policies with a forward-thinking and inclusive approach. These efforts are guided by several strategic documents, including the Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021-2035 and the Cambodia Digital Government Policy 2022-2035.
Hun Manet also mentioned the ongoing digital transformation within Cambodia and the broader ASEAN region, which he believes will drive progress in information and communication technology. He noted that digital technologies are poised to enhance business productivity and overall economic efficiency across Cambodia, contributing to sustained economic growth and the development of a more sophisticated society.
Moreover, the Prime Minister assured that the digital reforms would yield environmentally sustainable, secure, and reliable digital services for Cambodian citizens, safeguarding their national identity and cultural heritage.
He also reflected on Cambodia’s significant digitalization progress, which was accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, pushing for a more rapid adoption of digital technologies across the society.
The ‘Digital Government Forum and Digital Technology Expo’, hosted by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, aimed to bolster collaboration among technology experts in the region. The event featured discussions, workshops, and insights from both local and international experts on digital policy, technology trends, and digital acceleration strategies.
The expo portion showcased digital innovations, products, and services designed to meet the needs of various organizations. It attracted participation from multiple sectors, including government ministries, institutions, and technology firms from around the world.
The event also celebrated the achievements of the ‘Cambodian Digital Government Committee’ over the past 18 months. Hun Manet highlighted several government-initiated projects, such as the Financial Management Information System, e-tax and customs systems, and digital education platforms, among others.
Notably, the Cambodia Data Exchange (CAMDX) platform was recognized for facilitating data sharing between public and private sectors, earning accolades at the Future of Government Awards 2022. Additionally, the government’s document verification platform, verify.gov.kh, was awarded a gold medal at the ASEAN Digital Awards 2024, further showcasing Cambodia’s advancements in the digital realm.
