Cambodia: A Rising Star in Southeast Asia with Diverse and Resilient Sectors for Investment

Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia that has been attracting more foreign investors in recent years. The World Bank predicted that the recovery of tourism and ongoing policy support would drive Cambodia’s real GDP growth to nearly 5.5% in 2023.

Some of the reasons why Cambodia is a better destination for investors are:

• Investment incentives: The government offers various incentives for qualified investment projects (QIPs), such as tax holidays, duty exemptions, and preferential market access. QIPs are designed to promote foreign investments in Cambodia and cover a wide range of sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure.
• Open economy: Cambodia has a liberal and market-oriented economic system that welcomes foreign investment. The country has no restrictions on foreign ownership, capital repatriation, or currency exchange. Cambodia is also a member of ASEAN and has free trade agreements with China and other countries.
• Low labor costs: Cambodia has one of the lowest labour costs in the region, with a minimum wage of $197 per month for the garment sector. The country also has a young and dynamic workforce, with more than 60% of the population under 30 years old.
• Strategic location: Cambodia is located in the heart of Southeast Asia, with access to the Mekong River and the Gulf of Thailand. The country has a coastline of 443 kilometres and several ports that facilitate trade and logistics. Cambodia is also close to major markets such as China, India, and Vietnam.

Some of the key sectors in which Cambodia has potential are:

• Agriculture: Agriculture is one of the main pillars of the Cambodian economy, accounting for about 22% of GDP and employing about 70% of the labour force. The country has abundant natural resources, such as fertile land, water, and a favourable climate for growing various crops, such as rice, cassava, cashew, black pepper, rubber, corn, and fruits. Investors can benefit from the government’s support for agricultural development, such as tax exemptions, infrastructure improvements, and market access.
• Manufacturing: Manufacturing is another important sector in Cambodia, especially the garment and footwear industries, which account for about 80% of the country’s exports. The sector employs about 800,000 workers and produces a wide range of products, such as clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories. The sector has been resilient to the COVID-19 pandemic and has adapted to changing external conditions by diversifying its products and markets. Investors can take advantage of the low labour costs, preferential trade agreements, and investment incentives in this sector.
• Tourism: Tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Cambodia, contributing about 12% of GDP and creating about 630,000 jobs. The country has a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, attracting millions of visitors every year. Some of the popular destinations include Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and Kampot. The sector has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic but is expected to recover gradually as travel restrictions ease and vaccination programs accelerate. Investors can tap into the potential of this sector by providing quality services, innovative products, and sustainable practices.
• Information technology: Information technology is an emerging sector in Cambodia that offers opportunities for innovation and digital transformation. The country has a young and tech-savvy population that is eager to adopt new technologies and services. The government has also been supportive of developing the digital economy by improving internet connectivity, promoting e-commerce platforms, and fostering start-ups. Investors can leverage the growing demand for IT solutions in various sectors, such as banking, education, health care, and entertainment.

Cambodia is a rising star in Southeast Asia, with diverse and resilient sectors for investment. The government offers investment incentives, the economy is open to foreign investment, labour costs are low, and the country has a strategic location. Key sectors with potential include agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and information technology.

“The Better Cambodia is your trusted business partner in Cambodia, helping you navigate the investment landscape and unlocking the country’s vast potential for growth and success.”