• My Saves
  • My Feed
  • My Interests
  • Governing Body
  • From The Founder's Desk
  • Contact Us
The Better Cambodia
  • News
    NewsShow More
    Cambodia Reaffirms Strong Commitment to UN Partnership at UNGA80
    Cambodia Reaffirms Strong Commitment to UN Partnership at UNGA80

    (Phnom Penh): Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and…

    By
    TBC
    Wing Bank Injects $88M to Drive Growth & Strengthen Financial Position
    Wing Bank Injects $88M to Drive Growth & Strengthen Financial Position

    Wing Bank, one of Cambodia's fastest-growing digital banks, has received approval from…

    By
    TBC
    Tourism Minister Huot Hak Meets ASEAN Secretary-General in Melaka
    Tourism Minister Huot Hak Meets ASEAN Secretary-General in Melaka

    (Melaka, Malaysia) H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, held talks…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodian Rice Federation to Lead Delegation to ANUGA 2025 in Germany
    Cambodian Rice Federation to Lead Delegation to ANUGA 2025 in Germany

    Phnom Penh – Lay Chhun Hour, President of the Cambodia Rice Federation…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia Urges ANA to Resume Direct Flights from Japan
    Cambodia Urges ANA to Resume Direct Flights from Japan

    (Phnom Penh): Cambodian Minister of Tourism, H.E. Huot Hak, has urged All…

    By
    TBC
  • Editors Pick
    Editors PickShow More
    Building Cambodia’s Cooperative Farming Future with Inspiration from India

    Farming in Cambodia is not just about economics; it’s how people live…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Law on Stripping Citizenship for Treason in a Global Context

    Al Jazeera's report about Cambodia's new citizenship law made it sound like…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    The Human Cost of the Cambodia Thailand War
    The Human Cost of the Cambodia Thailand War

    By Surya NarayanSpecial Editorial | August 30, 2025 In Preah Vihear province,…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia and Thailand are at the Crossroads of Peace and Sovereignty.
    Cambodia and Thailand are at the Crossroads of Peace and Sovereignty

    By Surya NarayanSpecial Editorial | August 30, 2025 Witnessing the Struggles of…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    SEVA Cambodia: Nurturing Growth, Knowledge, and Community

    In Cambodia, an inspiring initiative is transforming the way schools and communities…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • Stories
    StoriesShow More
    The Timeless Tale of Vorvong and Sorvong: A Glimpse into Khmer Folklore

    The epic Khmer folklore of Vorvong and Sorvong stands out, weaving a…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Empowering Cambodian Youth: Anjali House’s Mission to Shape Futures

    In the heart of Siem Reap, Anjali House, a community learning center…

    By
    Nadalena DeJulio
    Life’s Journey: A Bike Ride Around Tonle Sap Lake

    In a remarkable display of strength and determination, Pheak Keo embarked on…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Phare Creative Studio: 15 Years of Cambodian Creations for Social Good

    Phare Creative Studio (PCS) is a social business that has been operating…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Dieng Dorm: The Muffin Man of Siem Reap

    Have you ever heard of the Muffin Man, SiemReap? He lives in…

    By
    Pisey Roeurm
  • Business
    BusinessShow More
    Cambodia’s Customs – The Gateway to Trade and Opportunity

    Cambodia’s economic story is one of resilience, reform, and ambition. While many…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    True North Lean: Transforming Pharma’s Workflow for Speed, Quality, and Value

    The pharmaceutical industry is at a critical juncture. Scientific advances in biology,…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia Powers Ahead with Nearly 6% Growth in First Half of 2025
    Cambodia Powers Ahead with Nearly 6% Growth in First Half of 2025

    Despite a turbulent global environment marked by trade protectionism, armed conflicts, and…

    By
    TBC
    Minebea Mitsumi Expands Operations in Cambodia with MISTI Support
    Minebea Mitsumi Expands Operations in Cambodia with MISTI Support

    Phnom Penh, August 14 — H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science,…

    By
    TBC
    US-Based Argentem Creek and Salmon Group Eye Cambodia’s Booming Fintech Sector
    US-Based Argentem Creek and Salmon Group Eye Cambodia’s Booming Fintech Sector

    Phnom Penh, August 6, 2025 — Cambodia’s fast-moving fintech landscape has caught…

    By
    TBC
  • Opinion Piece
    Opinion PieceShow More
    Wastewater Treatment – The Lifeline of Sustainable Development

    In the 21st century, the world faces a paradox. While more than…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Automotive Rise: A New Chapter in Industrial Transformation

    Over the past few decades, Cambodia has undergone a remarkable transition from…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    How Cambodian Entrepreneurs Can Successfully Set Up a Business in the United Kingdom, A Strategic Guide to Growth and Bilateral Benefits

    The United Kingdom continues to be a global leader in business, innovation,…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Trade Framework: A Gateway to Global Markets

    Over the past two decades, Cambodia has methodically established a robust regulatory…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Cashew Industry, A Future of Growth and Prosperity

    Cambodia’s agricultural sector is experiencing a strong rise in cashew production, making…

    By
    Jas Sohl
  • Press Release
    Press ReleaseShow More
    Wing Bank Injects $88M to Drive Growth & Strengthen Financial Position
    Wing Bank Injects $88M to Drive Growth & Strengthen Financial Position

    Wing Bank, one of Cambodia's fastest-growing digital banks, has received approval from…

    By
    TBC
    Wing Bank Opens Doors for People with Hearing Disabilities
    Wing Bank Opens Doors for People with Hearing Disabilities

    Five deaf individuals find opportunities and community at Wing Bank

    By
    TBC
    Wing Bank Hands Over Loan Write-Off Certificates to Injured Soldiers
    Wing Bank Hands Over Loan Write-Off Certificates to Injured Soldiers

    Three Families in Oddar Meanchey Relieved of Debts Totaling Nearly USD 50,000

    By
    TBC
    Wing Bank Supports Ministry of Commerce to Drive E-Commerce in Cambodia
    Wing Bank Supports Ministry of Commerce to Drive E-Commerce in Cambodia

    Wing Bank backs Digital Trade Forum to boost e-commerce growth and connect…

    By
    TBC
    CamWEN & WomenBizPH Partnership to Advance Women’s Leadership and Creative Economies in ASEAN
    CamWEN & WomenBizPH Partnership to Advance Women’s Leadership and Creative Economies in ASEAN

    The Cambodia Women Entrepreneurs Network (CamWEN) and the Women’s Business Council Philippines…

    By
    TBC
  • Visit Cambodia
    Visit CambodiaShow More
    Cambodian Rice Federation to Lead Delegation to ANUGA 2025 in Germany
    Cambodian Rice Federation to Lead Delegation to ANUGA 2025 in Germany

    Phnom Penh – Lay Chhun Hour, President of the Cambodia Rice Federation…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia Records Strong Tourism Growth, PM Hun Manet Reaffirms Sector as Key to Sustainable Development
    Cambodia Records Strong Tourism Growth, PM Hun Manet Reaffirms Sector as Key to Sustainable Development

    Phnom Penh: On the occasion of World Tourism Day 2025, celebrated under…

    By
    TBC
    Kampot Welcomes Nearly 150,000 Visitors During Pchum Ben 2025
    Kampot Welcomes Nearly 150,000 Visitors During Pchum Ben 2025

    Kampot — Kampot province saw a surge of holidaymakers during this year’s…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia and Tuniu Deepen Tourism Collaboration to Attract Chinese and Global Visitors
    Cambodia and Tuniu Deepen Tourism Collaboration to Attract Chinese and Global Visitors

    Phnom Penh – The Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia welcomed a high-level…

    By
    TBC
    India and Cambodia Sign Fifth MoU on Sanskrit and Buddhist Studies
    India and Cambodia Sign Fifth MoU on Sanskrit and Buddhist Studies

    PHNOM PENH — India and Cambodia have further strengthened their cultural and…

    By
    TBC
  • History
    HistoryShow More
    Srutavarman: The Legendary First King of Chenla

    Srutavarman (Old Khmer: ឝ្រុតវម៌្ម; Khmer: ស្រុតវរ្ម័ន, Shrutavarman) is remembered in Cambodian tradition…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    The Rise of Yasodharapura and the Flourishing of Early Angkor Civilization

    The Khmer Empire, one of Southeast Asia’s most powerful and artistically influential…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Timeline of Life in Cambodia | From Permian Seas to Dinosaurs
    Timeline of Life in Cambodia | From Permian Seas to Dinosaurs

    When most people think of Cambodia, their mind jumps to Angkor Wat…

    By
    TBC
    Jayavarman II: Founder of the Khmer Empire and Architect of Angkor’s Rise

    Jayavarman II (c. 770–850 CE) is revered as the founder of the…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Jayarajadevi: The Compassionate Queen Who Helped Shape the Khmer Empire’s Golden Age

    Queen Jayarajadevi, the first consort of the great Khmer ruler Jayavarman VII,…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • 🔥
  • Invest In Cambodia
  • Unsung Heroes/ Impact
  • The Better Asia
  • Agriculture
  • Technology
  • Places to Visit
  • Sustainability
Font ResizerAa
The Better CambodiaThe Better Cambodia
Search
  • Home
  • Stories
  • News
  • Visit Cambodia
  • Startups
  • Cambodian Brands
  • Unsung Heroes/ Impact
  • Sustainability
  • Artisans of Cambodia
  • Invest In Cambodia
  • Guests Posts
  • The Better Asia
  • Governing Body
  • From The Founder’s Desk
  • Contact us
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
  • My Saves
  • My Interests
  • My Feed
© 2025 TBC Media. All Rights Reserved.
The Better Cambodia > Blog > Business > Why Global Brands Are Sourcing Footwear from Cambodia?
BusinessBusinessImport & ExportInvest In Cambodia

Why Global Brands Are Sourcing Footwear from Cambodia?

Last updated: July 28, 2025 7:43 am
TBC
285 Views
Share
10 Min Read
Why Global Brands Are Sourcing Footwear from Cambodia?
SHARE

Over the past decade, Cambodia has emerged as a key player in the global footwear manufacturing industry. What was once a largely agrarian economy has transformed into a strategic manufacturing hub, especially for garments and footwear. Today, global giants such as Adidas, Puma, New Balance, Clarks, Skechers, and Asics source significant volumes of footwear from Cambodia. But what makes Cambodia such an attractive destination for international brands?

Contents
  • Cambodia’s Growing Share in the Global Footwear Market
  • Major Global Footwear Brands Operating in Cambodia
  • Cambodia vs. Regional Competitors
  • Challenges to Watch
  • The Road Ahead: Diversifying and Upgrading

This article explores the factors behind Cambodia’s rise in the global footwear supply chain, examines key brands and their operations, and evaluates the long-term prospects for the industry.

Cambodia’s Growing Share in the Global Footwear Market

Cambodia is now one of the top ten footwear exporters globally. According to data from the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia (GDCE), the country exported over $1.7 billion worth of footwear in 2023, accounting for nearly 10% of its total exports. Footwear exports have been growing at an average annual rate of 8–10%, even during global economic slowdowns.

Key export markets include:

- Advertisement -
  • United States (accounting for over 30% of Cambodian footwear exports)
  • European Union, benefiting from GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) and Everything But Arms (EBA) trade schemes
  • Japan, South Korea, and Canada

This sustained growth is the result of a confluence of factors—trade preferences, competitive labor, supportive policies, and strategic investments from major global brands.

Also read, Footwear Exports Surge 40% in Early 2025, Driven by U.S. Demand and Industry Momentum

Major Global Footwear Brands Operating in Cambodia

Cambodia’s footwear sector is heavily export-oriented and primarily driven by foreign-owned contract manufacturers who supply to global brands under long-term agreements. As of 2024, over 150 export-oriented footwear factories operate in Cambodia, according to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT) and the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE).

These brands operate indirectly via suppliers, primarily through Taiwanese, Chinese, and South Korean-owned manufacturing firms. Key players include Pou Chen Corp, Tycoon (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., Grand Twins International, and Cambo Handsome, which run multiple large-scale factories across Phnom Penh, Kampong Speu, Kandal, and Svay Rieng provinces.

Adidas

Adidas sources over 20% of its total Southeast Asian footwear production from Cambodia. The company works with leading Taiwanese contract manufacturer Pou Chen Corporation, whose Cambodian subsidiary Cambo Handsome Industrial Co., Ltd., based in Kampong Speu, produces millions of pairs annually.

  • Adidas had 12 active factories in Cambodia in 2023, including those producing both footwear and apparel.
  • According to Adidas’ supplier list, factories in Cambodia meet Tier 1 compliance, meaning they handle final production stages with strict quality and labor standards.
  • In 2022, Adidas produced more than 28 million pairs of shoes in Cambodia, contributing to its shift away from Chinese production.

Puma

Puma maintains contracts with at least 10 factories in Cambodia, including Sheico (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., which specializes in sports footwear and neoprene products. Most factories are located in Kandal, Svay Rieng, and Phnom Penh SEZs.

  • Puma’s official 2023 Sustainability Report noted Cambodia as a “key sourcing country for footwear with improved compliance and performance ratings.”
  • In 2021 alone, Puma sourced over $180 million worth of products from Cambodia, mainly footwear and activewear.

Clarks

British footwear brand Clarks uses outsourced facilities in Cambodia to produce leather and synthetic casual shoes. Their manufacturing partner Wing Star Shoes Co., Ltd., based in Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone (PPSEZ), produces tens of thousands of pairs monthly.

  • Clarks began relocating production from Vietnam and China to Cambodia starting in 2019 to optimize costs.
  • Cambodian-made Clarks shoes are distributed across Europe, North America, and the Middle East, with exports benefiting from tariff exemptions under EBA and GSP.

New Balance

New Balance sources performance footwear from specialized factories such as Hwa Fong Rubber (Cambodia) and Best Way Industrial Co., Ltd. These suppliers focus on rubber outsoles, athletic performance cushioning, and lightweight designs.

  • In 2023, New Balance’s global sourcing report listed Cambodia as “critical for scaling our Asia-based production strategy.”
  • Factories in Cambodia supply popular lines such as Fresh Foam and FuelCell, designed for high-performance athletes.

Skechers

Skechers utilizes contract factories in Cambodia, including Teng Fei Shoes and Victory International Footwear, for the production of lightweight, slip-on, and kids’ footwear.

  • Production focus is on cost-effective models with mesh uppers, memory foam soles, and children’s lines.
  • Cambodia supplies Skechers shoes primarily to U.S. and Canadian markets, leveraging duty-free trade access.

Asics

Asics has increased its sourcing from Cambodia as part of its regional diversification strategy.

  • Huali Cambodia Footwear Co., Ltd. and Panpou Shoes Co., Ltd., located in Svay Rieng and Kampong Cham, are known suppliers for Asics.
  • Asics prioritizes suppliers in Cambodia for their ability to meet technical quality requirements, including moisture control materials and lightweight EVA soles.

Decathlon (France)

Decathlon, the French sporting goods giant, has rapidly expanded its Cambodian sourcing since 2017. It operates through more than 15 suppliers producing a wide range of products including running shoes, sandals, and hiking boots.

  • Cambodian factories supply brands like Kalenji, Quechua, and Newfeel.
  • Decathlon’s supplier list ranks Cambodian factories in the top 5% globally in terms of social compliance and quality output.

Fila, Lotto, Geox, and Bata

  • Fila has shifted portions of its production to Cambodia through Chinese-owned manufacturers like Golden Star Cambodia.
  • Geox sources breathable casual shoes and insoles from compliant partners such as Cambodia Footwear Industrial Co., Ltd.
  • Bata, which has a long history in Asia, outsources parts of its Southeast Asian supply to Cambodia to support its South Asian and African markets.

Supporting Data Snapshot

BrandNo. of FactoriesType of FootwearPrimary Manufacturing PartnersKey Export Markets
Adidas12+Sports shoes, sneakersPou Chen, Cambo HandsomeEU, US, Japan
Puma10+Athletic footwearSheico, Wing Star, othersUS, EU
Clarks3–5Casual leather shoesWing Star ShoesUK, UAE, Canada
New Balance4–6Performance footwearHwa Fong Rubber, Best Way IndustrialUS, Australia
Skechers6+Kids and casual shoesVictory Footwear, Teng FeiUS, Canada
Asics3–4Sports & running shoesPanpou Shoes, Huali FootwearJapan, EU
Decathlon15+Multi-purpose footwearLocal SEZ partnersFrance, Germany

Cambodia vs. Regional Competitors

Cambodia is part of the “China +1” strategy, wherein brands diversify production to avoid over-dependence on China. Among alternatives like Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Myanmar, Cambodia scores well in terms of:

FactorCambodiaVietnamBangladeshMyanmar
Labor costLowMediumVery lowLow
Trade accessStrongStrongStrongWeak
ComplianceMedium-HighHighMediumLow
Political stabilityHighHighMediumLow
InfrastructureImprovingAdvancedModeratePoor

Vietnam is still ahead in terms of scale and infrastructure, but Cambodia’s simplified investment process, lower cost base, and open economy make it very attractive for mid-sized and large manufacturers.

Challenges to Watch

While the outlook is positive, there are a few concerns that brands and policymakers are monitoring:

  • Dependence on imported raw materials, which can be disrupted by global supply chain issues
  • Electricity costs, which are higher than Vietnam and Thailand
  • Transport bottlenecks, especially road connectivity from the interior to ports
  • Rising wages, though still competitive, are increasing yearly
  • Labor unrest or strikes, though decreasing, remain a risk if dialogue breaks down

Addressing these challenges through infrastructure upgrades, better energy policy, and supply chain localization could further enhance Cambodia’s appeal.

The Road Ahead: Diversifying and Upgrading

To secure its place in the global value chain, Cambodia must move beyond low-value assembly into value-added activities such as:

  • In-house design and prototyping
  • Product development centers with trained technicians
  • Investments in technical training institutes for shoe engineering
  • Developing Cambodian brands for export markets

There is also potential for eco-friendly and vegan footwear, a niche that is growing globally. Brands sourcing from Cambodia are increasingly demanding sustainability reporting, pushing factories to adopt water-saving, waste-reduction, and cleaner energy practices.

Also read, Top 10 Sectors to Invest in Cambodia Right Now

Sign Up For Daily Newsletter

Be keep up! Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.
[mc4wp_form]
By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any buzzstream.
Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp LinkedIn Telegram Email Copy Link Print
ByTBC
Experience Cambodia's Brightest Moments with The Better Cambodia – Your Fastest Growing Positive News Media Company!
Previous Article Made in Cambodia Made in Cambodia – Homegrown Brands Leading with Culture, Creativity, and Sustainability
Next Article Cambodia Opens First Specialist Centre for Child Victims of Serious Crimes Cambodia Opens First Specialist Centre for Child Victims of Serious Crimes
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

- Advertisement -

You Might Also Like

BusinessNews

Cambodia’s Insurance Industry: A Steady Ascent in 2023

By
Surya Narayan
AgricultureNewsSustainability

A $135 million credit arrangement signed to boost agriculture sector.

By
Surya Narayan
Invest In CambodiaTechnology

Cambodian Government Invests $30 Million in National Data Center

By
Surya Narayan
BusinessInvest In CambodiaVisa InfoVisit Cambodia

Enjoy a Long-term Stay in Beautiful Cambodia: A Land of Peace, Stability, and Growth

By
Surya Narayan
© 2025 TBC Media. All Rights Reserved.
  • Home
  • News
  • About Cambodia
    • Provinces of Cambodia
  • Tours
  • Things to Do
    • Adventure
    • Events
    • Festivals
    • Fun & Games
    • Landmarks
    • Markets
    • Museums
    • Parks
    • Shopping
    • Shows
    • Temples
    • Villages
    • Water Fun
    • Wildlife
    • Workshops
    • Zoos & Aquariums
  • Eat & Drink
    • Khmer Cuisine
    • Bars & Pubs
    • Cafés & Bakeries
    • Fine Dining
    • Street Food
  • Natural Attractions
    • Beaches
    • Botanical Sites
    • Caves
    • Cliffs & Rock Formations
    • Coral Reefs
    • Forests
    • Hot Springs
    • Islands
    • Lakes
    • Mountains
    • Parks
    • Rivers
    • Scenic Spots
    • Waterfalls
    • Wetlands
    • Wildlife Areas
  • Services
  • Travel Guide
  • Stays
    • Boutique Stays
    • Eco Lodges
    • Guesthouses
    • Homestays
    • Hotels
    • Resorts
No thanks.
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?

Not a member? Sign Up