On the auspicious occasion of the 1st National Day of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises on June 27, the Royal Government of Cambodia, in partnership with the Australian Government, announced the unveiling of a pioneering digital portal. This online gateway signifies a progressive step towards the formalization of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), artisans, and industrial entities in Cambodia.
The grand unveiling event was chaired by His Excellency Dr. Aun Pornmoniroth, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, and witnessed the attendance of several Cambodian government luminaries alongside foreign representatives. This event served as a nexus for entrepreneurial minds, business association delegates, ministry members, and international development agencies to converge and witness the digital leap forward.
The genesis of this digital solution originated with assistance from the Cambodia Australia Partnership for Resistent Economic Development (CAPRED), with its implementation overseen by the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI). The platform is engineered to be comprehensive, intuitive, and accessible via any digital apparatus, consolidating previously fragmented and paper-laden processes into a harmonious singular digital procedure. The system encompasses three integral steps to formality: initiation of a Prakas for SMEs or handicraft start-ups, submitting applications for operational licenses or renewals, and registering new industrial factories.
His Excellency Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, vocalized his optimism during the ceremony, “Today’s introduction of the digital portal represents a momentous occasion as we aim to refine our business ecosystem towards greater transparency and efficiency. This initiative relieves the corporate world from the weight of intricate bureaucracy and nurtures a more inviting environment for enterprises.”
In preparation for its commencement, the portal was scrupulously evaluated through numerous trials involving MISTI officials, service providers, and representatives from diverse business sectors, ensuring the needs of all, including women and the differently-abled, were addressed. The feedback has cultivated an interface that simplifies entry into the official domain for businesses.
Australian Chargé d’affaires to Cambodia, Mr. Andreas Zurbrugg, commented on the collaborative journey, “Our coordinated endeavour with Cambodia has brought forth this innovative platform. It signifies a major drive towards dismantling impediments, fostering growth, and bolstering a robust and equitable economy within Cambodia.”
The agenda behind this platform is to amplify the registration of formal businesses from the current 13%, enhancing SMEs by facilitating their approach to funding options, market opportunities, and governmental programs. This not only strengthens their competitive edge but also makes Cambodia more alluring for international investment.
Interested media representatives seeking further insights may reach out to:
• Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation at media@misti.gov.kh
• Australian Embassy at Media.Cambodia@dfat.gov.au
Source: Fresh News
