PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s industrial production surpassed $9.8 billion in the first six months of 2026, driven by expanding manufacturing capabilities and rising global demand, according to data released by the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI).
The figures highlight steady progress in the Royal Government’s strategy to diversify the nation’s economic and export landscape beyond traditional manufacturing.
Production Volume and Global Export Share
Of the total industrial production generated from January to June 2026, approximately 74% was directed to international markets, accounting for roughly $7.3 billion in export value.
The manufacturing footprint across the Kingdom expanded steadily during this period:
- Operational Factory Network: As of June 2026, Cambodia registered 3,357 operational factories.
- Industrial Workforce: The sector employed over 1.35 million workers, with women comprising more than 70% of the industrial labor force.
- Sector Investment: Total capital invested in heavy industry and manufacturing reached approximately $28 billion, marking a year-on-year increase of over 29%.
Expanding Beyond Traditional Manufacturing
While garments, footwear, and travel goods (GFT) remain cornerstone components of Cambodia’s export economy, growth is increasingly driven by higher-value and non-garment sectors:
- Automotive & Auto Parts: Expanding vehicle assembly plants and wiring harness operations.
- Electronics & Solar Equipment: Growing manufacturing clusters producing electrical goods and renewable energy components.
- Tyre & Rubber Manufacturing: Increased value-added industrial processing utilizing domestic rubber resources.
- Agro-Processing & Food Production: Modernization of food processing facilities to supply both domestic consumption and international supply chains.
According to industry representatives and Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) leadership, local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are progressively integrating into multinational supply networks.
To sustain this growth trajectory, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT) and MISTI are focusing on technical standard upgrades, industrial safety, and specialized training programs to supply skilled technicians and engineers for emerging high-tech industries.
Also Read, Cambodia-Vietnam Bilateral Trade Approaches $7.8 Billion in First Seven Months of 2026
