Cambodia’s investment drive showed no signs of slowing in July 2025, with nearly 70 new projects approved and total capital just shy of $950 million, according to the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC). The strong monthly performance has pushed the year-to-date total to 440 projects — already beating the full-year figure for 2024 by 26 projects.
Strong July Momentum
In its August 11 press release, the Cambodian Investment Board (CIB) reported approving 67 projects in July, bringing in about $944 million in fresh capital and creating an estimated 57,000 jobs.
Of these approvals, 43 projects will be based outside Special Economic Zones (SEZs), ranging from expansion of agro-industrial crop production and processing plants to mining operations and hotels. The remaining 24 are within SEZs, with notable developments like machinery and robotics assembly facilities.
Compared to July 2024, the number of projects jumped by 23, while investment value surged by around $547 million — a rise of nearly 138% year-on-year.
2025: Already Outpacing Last Year
From January to July, 440 projects worth $6.7 billion have been approved. That’s an increase of 206 projects, or 88%, compared to the same period in 2024. The investment value is also up by $3 billion, marking an 84% rise.
“It’s remarkable that in just 7 months of 2025, the number of approved projects has already overtaken the total registered for all of last year,” the CDC noted.
Confidence Despite Global Challenges
Hong Vanak, economist at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said Cambodia’s ability to attract both domestic and international investors, even during a period of global economic uncertainty, reflects the country’s growing appeal.
He pointed out that the US government’s decision to set tariffs on Cambodian imports at just 19% has helped boost international demand. “The increase in foreign purchase orders, combined with our investment laws, affordable workforce and improving logistics, will keep pulling in more international companies. Our factories can now diversify production lines for multiple global markets,” he added.
Vanak also mentioned that the growth in manufacturing is being supported by the return of large numbers of skilled Cambodian workers from Thailand.
Drawing Skilled Workers Back Home
Heng Sour, Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, has repeatedly urged Cambodian workers abroad to return, saying local jobs now offer higher security and benefits.
Factory workers in Cambodia can earn around $300 a month, including minimum wage, overtime and allowances. Employees also receive a National Social Security Fund (NSSF) card, covering medical expenses during employment and after retirement.
“This card has value both now and later,” the minister said. “If a worker gets injured, the company and NSSF cover all costs. They’ll still receive wages during recovery, and even family members can access treatment under the scheme.”
Outlook for the Rest of 2025
With investment approvals rising sharply, strong job creation, and expanding industrial capacity, Cambodia is positioning itself as a serious manufacturing and agro-processing hub in the region. Supportive policies, an available skilled workforce, and access to multiple export markets are setting the stage for what could be a record-breaking year for the Kingdom’s economy.
Also read, International Trade Surges Past $36 Billion in First Seven Months
