Cambodia is stepping up efforts to become a leading logistics and transportation hub in Southeast Asia through stronger cooperation between the government and the private sector. During a high level meeting in Preah Sihanouk on July 6, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol and EuroCham Cambodia reaffirmed their commitment to improving transport networks, streamlining supply chains, and enhancing trade efficiency. The initiative reflects Cambodia’s broader strategy to modernize its logistics sector, attract investment, and support long term economic growth.

The discussions brought together government agencies, logistics operators, port authorities, and business leaders to identify practical solutions that improve cargo movement, maximize existing infrastructure, and accelerate digital transformation. By combining policy reforms with private sector expertise, Cambodia aims to strengthen its position as a competitive regional logistics gateway.

Government and Business Join Forces

The meeting was chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, who also serves as First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia and Chairman of the National Logistics Council. EuroCham Cambodia Chairman Tassilo Brinzer led the chamber’s delegation, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue between public institutions and the business community.

Senior representatives from the Council for the Development of Cambodia, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, the General Department of Customs and Excise, the Phnom Penh Sihanoukville Expressway, Royal Railway PLC, and private sector companies participated in the discussions. Their shared objective was to strengthen Cambodia’s logistics network while making cross border trade faster, more reliable, and more cost effective.

Improving Cargo Transport and Trade Efficiency

A major focus of the meeting was improving the transportation of import and export cargo across the country. Participants explored ways to make better use of Cambodia’s existing transport infrastructure while addressing logistics challenges identified through research conducted by EuroCham Cambodia.

Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol welcomed recommendations from industry representatives and emphasized the importance of expanding trade facilitation reforms. Strengthening cooperation between government agencies and businesses, he noted, will play an essential role in achieving Cambodia’s ambition of becoming a regional logistics hub.

Digital Innovation Modernizes Port Operations

Officials from the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port introduced PASNet, a mobile application launched in 2023 that provides real time information and digital services for shipping companies, freight operators, and traders. The platform represents a significant step toward digitizing Cambodia’s maritime logistics services.

PASNet was integrated with partner banks in 2025 and connected to the ASYCUDA Hub in 2026, allowing port operations to communicate directly with Cambodia’s computerized customs system. This digital integration is expected to simplify cargo clearance procedures, improve operational efficiency, and support faster international trade through the country’s largest seaport.

Infrastructure Upgrades Support Future Growth

Following the meeting, Sun Chanthol led a visit to the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port to inspect ongoing infrastructure improvements and evaluate the port’s readiness to handle increasing trade volumes. The visit demonstrated the government’s commitment to expanding logistics capacity while ensuring the country’s infrastructure keeps pace with growing regional demand.

The inspection also highlighted Cambodia’s broader investment strategy, which combines infrastructure development, digital transformation, and stronger partnerships with the private sector. These efforts are expected to improve the overall competitiveness of Cambodia’s logistics ecosystem and strengthen its role in regional supply chains.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s renewed partnership with EuroCham Cambodia marks another important step toward building a modern and competitive logistics sector. Through closer public private cooperation, smarter digital systems, and continued investment in transport infrastructure, the country is laying the foundation for more efficient trade and stronger regional connectivity. As logistics continues to evolve, these initiatives are expected to boost investor confidence, improve supply chain performance, and support Cambodia’s long term economic ambitions.

Cambodia has strengthened its financial position as the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) reported that the country’s net foreign assets reached 104,364 billion riel, or approximately $25.5 billion, by the end of May 2026. The latest figures, published in the Central Bank Survey on June 30, highlight the Kingdom’s solid external reserves, stable monetary base, and prudent financial management despite an increasingly complex global economic environment. The report reflects Cambodia’s continued efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability while supporting sustainable economic growth.

According to the NBC, the country’s growing foreign reserves have been driven by stronger exports, a gradual recovery in tourism, and continued inflows of foreign investment. Together, these factors have strengthened Cambodia’s financial resilience, enhanced investor confidence, and positioned the economy to navigate the remainder of 2026 with greater stability.

Strong Foreign Reserves Reinforce Economic Stability

The National Bank of Cambodia reported that net foreign assets increased to 104,364 billion riel, equivalent to around $25.5 billion, at the end of May 2026. Compiled by the NBC’s Statistics Department, the figures reflect the central bank’s strengthening external position and its ability to safeguard Cambodia’s financial system against external risks.

The Central Bank Survey follows the International Monetary Fund’s Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual and Compilation Guide, ensuring that Cambodia’s monetary statistics meet internationally recognized standards. The data provides policymakers, investors, researchers, and development partners with a transparent picture of the country’s financial health.

Foreign Assets Continue Their Upward Trend

Net foreign assets, which measure claims on nonresidents minus liabilities to nonresidents, have continued their steady growth over the past several years. During the last twelve months alone, the indicator expanded by approximately 6.3 percent, reflecting Cambodia’s improving external financial position.

Claims on nonresidents reached approximately 105,759 billion riel, or around $26.4 billion, while external liabilities remained well contained. This healthy balance has strengthened Cambodia’s foreign exchange reserves and provided an important financial cushion against global economic uncertainties, including commodity price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions.

Monetary Base Expands Alongside Economic Activity

The survey also showed that Cambodia’s monetary base increased to 61,469 billion riel, equivalent to approximately $15.4 billion, during May 2026. The monetary base includes currency circulating throughout the economy together with reserves held by commercial banks and other deposit taking institutions at the central bank.

As economic activity continues to recover, demand for both the Cambodian riel and the US dollar has increased through stronger consumer spending and business transactions. While this supports broader money supply growth and private sector lending, the NBC continues to carefully manage liquidity to help maintain price stability and control inflation.

Prudent Fiscal Policy Supports Financial Confidence

Another notable finding from the survey is Cambodia’s continued disciplined fiscal management. Net claims on the government remained negative at approximately 15,645 billion riel, meaning government deposits at the National Bank of Cambodia continue to exceed outstanding borrowing from the central bank.

This financial position reflects strong government revenue collection and limited dependence on central bank financing. It also strengthens confidence in Cambodia’s monetary policy, helps anchor inflation expectations, and reinforces the country’s overall macroeconomic stability.

Healthy Banking System Maintains Liquidity

The survey found that claims on commercial banks and microfinance deposit taking institutions remained supportive of liquidity across Cambodia’s financial system. This helps financial institutions continue providing loans and banking services while maintaining overall stability.

Other balance sheet indicators also demonstrated the central bank’s sound financial management. Together, these measures highlight the NBC’s capacity to support a resilient financial system capable of responding to domestic and international economic developments.

Financial Reforms Continue to Strengthen the Economy

The latest data illustrates Cambodia’s long journey from post conflict recovery to a modern and increasingly digital financial system. Years of financial reforms, stronger institutions, and improved monetary management have contributed to a more resilient economy capable of withstanding external shocks.

At the same time, Cambodia’s economy continues to benefit from key growth sectors including garments, tourism, agriculture, and construction. The NBC has also continued promoting wider use of the Cambodian riel while expanding digital payment systems, strengthening financial inclusion, and improving liquidity management throughout the banking sector.

Looking Ahead

As Cambodia works toward its upper middle income ambitions, the National Bank of Cambodia is expected to continue balancing economic growth with financial and price stability. Through careful reserve management, prudent monetary policy, and internationally recognized statistical reporting, the central bank aims to strengthen resilience against future domestic and global economic challenges.

The complete Central Bank Survey and supporting statistical methodology are available on the National Bank of Cambodia’s official website, offering detailed information for investors, policymakers, researchers, and the public seeking a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s monetary and financial developments.

Conclusion

The National Bank of Cambodia’s latest figures highlight the country’s growing financial strength and resilient economic foundation. With net foreign assets reaching $25.5 billion, expanding monetary reserves, disciplined fiscal management, and continued financial reforms, Cambodia remains well positioned to support sustainable economic growth while maintaining stability in an increasingly uncertain global economy.

Cambodia and Vietnam are taking another step toward strengthening their economic partnership as business leaders from both countries explore new investment opportunities at the Snoul Special Economic Zone in Kratie province. During a study visit held last week, Cambodian and Vietnamese representatives examined the zone’s industrial potential, logistics capabilities, and investment incentives while discussing future cooperation in agro processing, manufacturing, and cross border trade. The visit reflects both countries’ shared commitment to expanding investment, creating more value from agricultural products, and deepening regional supply chain integration.

Organized by Cambodia’s Commercial Office in Ho Chi Minh City in collaboration with the Kratie Provincial Administration, the visit brought together government officials, private sector representatives, and investors seeking practical opportunities for long term business partnerships. By combining Cambodia’s growing industrial base with Vietnam’s manufacturing experience, both sides hope to unlock new opportunities that will benefit businesses, farmers, and exporters alike.

Business Delegation Explores Snoul Special Economic Zone

According to a statement released on Friday by Cambodia’s Commercial Office in Ho Chi Minh City, a delegation of Vietnamese investors led by Ho Daret, Commercial Attaché at the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Vietnam, visited the Snoul Special Economic Zone in Kratie province to assess its investment potential.

The study tour allowed delegates to gain firsthand insight into the zone’s industrial infrastructure, available investment support services, transportation links, logistics network, and government incentive policies. Officials believe these advantages provide a solid foundation for attracting manufacturers and strengthening industrial cooperation between Cambodia and Vietnam.

Agro Processing Emerges as a Key Investment Opportunity

One of the major outcomes of the visit was the discussion surrounding joint investments in agro processing industries. Cambodian and Vietnamese companies explored plans to establish cashew nut and mango processing factories in Kratie province, aiming to increase the value of locally produced agricultural products before they reach international markets.

These proposed investments would help farmers earn greater returns while strengthening Cambodia’s domestic value chains. Processing agricultural products locally also creates employment opportunities, improves export competitiveness, and supports the country’s broader strategy of moving beyond raw commodity exports toward higher value manufacturing.

Logistics and Transport Cooperation Gain Momentum

Beyond manufacturing, both sides discussed expanding investment in logistics services and cross border transportation infrastructure. Improving transport connectivity between Cambodia and Vietnam is expected to reduce trade costs, accelerate the movement of goods, and make regional supply chains more efficient.

Business leaders believe stronger logistics networks will encourage greater industrial investment within the Snoul Special Economic Zone while creating smoother trade routes that connect Cambodian producers with regional and international markets.

Rubber Industry Offers New Growth Potential

Cambodian officials also highlighted opportunities for expanding cooperation within the rubber industry. Discussions focused on increasing the supply of Cambodia’s natural rubber to a tire manufacturing and processing plant operating inside the Snoul Special Economic Zone.

By using more locally sourced raw materials, the initiative would encourage value added manufacturing while creating stronger industrial links between Cambodian producers and Vietnamese businesses. It would also help reinforce the growing industrial partnership between the two neighboring countries.

Stronger Economic Partnership Supports Regional Growth

The visit reflects the growing momentum behind Cambodia and Vietnam’s economic cooperation, particularly in sectors that complement each country’s strengths. While Cambodia offers abundant agricultural resources, expanding industrial zones, and investment friendly policies, Vietnam brings manufacturing expertise and established regional supply chains.

As more businesses from both countries collaborate on industrial projects, agro processing, and logistics development, the partnership is expected to generate new investment, create jobs, increase exports, and contribute to sustainable economic growth across the region. Readers interested in the original report can find more details through Khmer Times.

Conclusion

The visit to the Snoul Special Economic Zone highlights Cambodia’s determination to attract quality investment while strengthening regional economic partnerships. With promising opportunities in agro processing, logistics, manufacturing, and rubber production, cooperation between Cambodian and Vietnamese businesses is laying the foundation for stronger supply chains, greater export potential, and long term economic development. As these projects move forward, Kratie is well positioned to become an important industrial and investment hub along the Cambodia Vietnam economic corridor.

Cambodia’s capital market is on track to achieve a major milestone, with total funds raised through the Cambodia Securities Exchange expected to reach approximately $1 billion by the end of 2026. The optimistic outlook was shared during the initial public offering roadshow of Borey Vimean Samnang Plc. at the Cambodia Securities Exchange in Phnom Penh on Wednesday. The event highlighted the country’s growing confidence in its financial market while marking another important step toward expanding investment opportunities for businesses and investors alike.

The roadshow also celebrated a historic achievement for Cambodia’s property sector. Borey Vimean Samnang Plc. became the first real estate development company in the Kingdom to launch an initial public offering on the Cambodia Securities Exchange. The IPO officially opened on July 2 and will continue until September 9, giving investors the opportunity to participate in the company’s next stage of growth while supporting the continued development of Cambodia’s capital market.

Cambodia’s Capital Market Continues Strong Growth

Speaking at the roadshow, Delegate of the Royal Government of Cambodia and Director General of the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia, Sou Socheat, expressed confidence that the country’s securities market will continue its impressive expansion. He said the Cambodia Securities Exchange has become an increasingly important source of financing for Cambodian businesses through both equity and bond issuances.

According to Socheat, companies seeking to list on the stock exchange must meet strict regulatory standards and demonstrate strong business readiness before receiving approval. While the market remains open to all qualified businesses, only those with sound corporate governance and proper preparation will be allowed to enter Cambodia’s growing securities market.

Listed Companies Move Closer to the $1 Billion Milestone

Socheat noted that Cambodia’s capital market has made remarkable progress since its early days when only one company was listed on the exchange. Today, the market has grown to 27 listed companies, with another company expected to join in the near future.

He explained that Borey Vimean Samnang Plc., now the 27th listed company, aims to raise $10 million through its public offering, while the upcoming listing of LOLC plans to issue more than $50 million in bonds. Together, these new listings will further strengthen the country’s investment landscape and provide additional funding sources for business expansion.

“As of now, listed companies have collectively raised around $750 million to $760 million through equity and bond offerings,” Socheat said. “By the end of December, I believe we will reach $1 billion. I am confident we will achieve this milestone.”

He added that the roadshow was not simply a promotional event for Borey Vimean Samnang’s IPO. Instead, it also reflected the company’s commitment to contributing to Cambodia’s securities market by raising funds through a public offering and strengthening its financial foundation for long term business growth.

Borey Vimean Samnang Sets an Example for Cambodian Businesses

Director General of the Cambodia Securities Exchange, Hong Sok Hour, praised Borey Vimean Samnang for taking an important step toward becoming a publicly listed company. He described the company as a model for other Cambodian businesses seeking sustainable long term growth.

According to Sok Hour, the transition from a family owned business to a publicly listed company demonstrates a commitment to transparency, accountability, and good corporate governance. These qualities not only strengthen investor confidence but also help businesses compete more effectively at the regional level.

“CSX is proud to have become a financing platform that enables both private companies and state-owned enterprises with strong potential to raise capital for business expansion while enhancing their regional competitiveness,” he said.

More Investment Products Expected Soon

Sok Hour also revealed that the Cambodia Securities Exchange is working closely with the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia to introduce new financial products over the next one to two years.

These upcoming investment products are expected to offer greater diversity and accessibility for both individual and institutional investors. The expansion is designed to create more attractive short term and long term investment opportunities while supporting the continued development of Cambodia’s financial sector.

A New Chapter After Nearly 26 Years of Growth

Executive Chairman of Borey Vimean Samnang, Kim Heang, described the IPO roadshow as a defining moment in the company’s journey after nearly 26 years of dedication and hard work.

He explained that the company’s first 25 years focused on building a solid business foundation. Looking ahead, the period from 2026 to 2056 will concentrate on expansion, innovation, and sustainable long term growth. He also expressed appreciation to investors, business partners, and supporters who have placed their trust in the company throughout its journey.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s capital market is entering a new phase of growth as more businesses embrace public fundraising through the Cambodia Securities Exchange. The debut of Borey Vimean Samnang Plc. represents an important milestone for both the property sector and the country’s financial industry. With new listings, expanding investment products, and growing investor confidence, Cambodia appears well positioned to achieve its ambitious goal of raising $1 billion through its securities market while creating stronger opportunities for businesses and investors in the years ahead.

Cambodia moves to end prize based beverage promotions by September

The Cambodian government has announced a major change to the way alcoholic and sugary drinks are promoted across the country. Under a new directive issued by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, producers, importers, and distributors must stop all prize based promotional campaigns by September 30. The new rules are designed to strengthen oversight of beverage marketing while creating a more responsible and transparent sales environment.

The directive was signed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth on June 29 before being publicly announced by the General Department of Taxation on July 1. Businesses throughout Cambodia have been given a transition period to phase out existing promotional schemes and ensure full compliance before the deadline.

Prize winning promotions will no longer be allowed

One of the biggest changes introduced by the new regulation is the complete ban on promotions that offer customers the chance to win prizes when purchasing alcoholic or sugary beverages. This includes rewards hidden inside can rings, bottle caps, product packaging, or any other marketing mechanism that encourages consumers to buy products in hopes of receiving prizes.

The restriction also extends to raffles, scratch cards, coupons, reward cards, QR code campaigns, digital reward programmes, and any similar promotional activities. The government clarified that the ban applies regardless of whether the prizes are attached directly to the product packaging or delivered through digital platforms.

Companies ordered to stop producing promotional packaging

To ensure businesses comply with the new rules, the government has instructed manufacturers, importers, and distributors to immediately stop ordering, importing, or producing beverage cans, bottle caps, and packaging materials that feature prize based promotions.

This requirement takes effect immediately following the issuance of the directive, giving companies time to replace existing promotional materials before the September deadline. The move is intended to prevent new promotional packaging from entering the Cambodian market while businesses prepare for the transition.

Free beverage giveaways are also prohibited

The new measures go beyond prize campaigns. The Royal Government has also prohibited companies from distributing alcoholic and sugary beverages free of charge as part of promotional activities.

Officials believe the combined restrictions will strengthen government control over beverage marketing while reducing promotional practices that may encourage excessive consumption. Businesses are expected to adjust their marketing strategies to comply with the updated regulations.

Businesses may still offer limited discounts

Although prize based promotions are being eliminated, the government will continue allowing businesses to offer carefully controlled price discounts. Companies may provide discounts of up to 15 percent of the invoiced selling price during regular sales promotions.

Additional flexibility has been granted for products nearing their expiration dates. Businesses may offer discounts of up to 25 percent if the beverages have no more than 60 days remaining before expiry. However, companies must first notify the General Department of Taxation before launching such discount campaigns.

Promotional gifts remain permitted under strict conditions

The directive still allows businesses to include selected non beverage promotional items with alcoholic and sugary drinks. These items may include glasses, umbrellas, ice buckets, water bottles, shirts, hats, and even tour packages.

However, the total value of these promotional benefits must not exceed 5 percent of the invoiced selling price of the beverages. This limitation is intended to prevent companies from replacing banned prize campaigns with expensive promotional giveaways.

New policy follows earlier government direction

The latest instruction follows the Royal Government’s broader efforts to strengthen oversight of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverage marketing. It is consistent with an earlier Ministry of Economy and Finance letter issued on May 4, which outlined principles for regulating domestic beer and non alcoholic beverages.

The ministry urged company directors, managers, business owners, and members of the public to fully comply with the new requirements and support their implementation with a strong sense of responsibility. More information about the directive is available from the original report published by Khmer Times.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s latest directive represents a significant shift in the marketing of alcoholic and sugary beverages. By eliminating prize based promotions while allowing limited discounts and modest promotional gifts, the government aims to create fairer marketing practices and strengthen regulatory oversight. Businesses now have until September 30 to complete the transition, making compliance a top priority for beverage producers, importers, and distributors operating across the country.