Phnom Penh, March 3, 2025 – The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI), in collaboration with the Food Technology, Research and Innovation Platform (FTRIP), has introduced the Cambodia Enterprise Innovation Index (CEII) Guidelines. This strategic framework is designed to enhance business innovation, boost competitiveness, and drive economic growth in Cambodia.
Speaking at the CEII Guidelines workshop on March 3, Minister Hem Vanndy emphasized the importance of fostering innovation in enterprises to elevate Cambodia’s position in the Global Innovation Index. He noted, “Enhancing enterprises’ innovation capability presents a crucial opportunity to enhance Cambodia’s national prestige. This advancement will contribute to sustainable and inclusive socio-economic growth, creating an environment conducive to innovation-driven development.”
Innovation as a Driver of Economic Transformation
Innovation plays a pivotal role in green manufacturing, improving resource efficiency, and reducing reliance on scarce resources. It also significantly impacts human resource development, productivity enhancement, and income generation.
H.E. Igor Driesmans, Ambassador of the European Union to Cambodia, highlighted the country’s potential to become an innovation-driven economy. “Cambodia’s young, dynamic population, expanding digital connectivity, and increasing access to technology provide a strong foundation for economic transformation,” he stated.
The CEII Guidelines were developed under the EU-funded CAPFISH-Capture project, implemented by UNIDO. Endorsed by the Science, Technology, and Innovation National Council in August 2024, the guidelines provide a structured framework for assessing innovation capabilities in enterprises of all sizes across Cambodia.
Innovation Attracting Investment and Strengthening Resilience
Sok Narin, UNIDO Cambodia Representative, underscored the role of innovation in attracting investment and fostering economic resilience. “A stronger innovation index enhances a country’s appeal as an investment destination. By leveraging new technologies, businesses can boost efficiency, productivity, and profitability, leading to job creation and the growth of emerging industries,” he explained.
The CEII reflects the Royal Government’s commitment to strengthening Cambodia’s innovation ecosystem in alignment with national development goals. By evaluating both innovation inputs and outputs, the index provides valuable insights to support industrialization, enhance governance, and promote economic diversification, ultimately advancing Cambodia’s economic resilience and global competitiveness.
