For years, Cambodia relied entirely on neighboring countries for one of the most essential materials in its development—cement. The country once depended on Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines to meet its construction needs. Fast forward to 2024, and Cambodia ...Read more
For years, Cambodia relied entirely on neighboring countries for one of the most essential materials in its development—cement. The country once depended on Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines to meet its construction needs. Fast forward to 2024, and Cambodia is not only self-sufficient in cement production but has also stepped confidently onto the global stage as an exporter. This remarkable transformation is a story of strategic investment, political stability, industrial development, and visionary leadership.
A Nation Once Dependent on Imports
Before 2007, Cambodia had no domestic cement production facilities. All cement used in the booming construction industry—be it for roads, high-rises, or bridges—had to be imported. This reliance made the country vulnerable to price fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and trade bottlenecks. It also limited Cambodia’s capacity to independently support its rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion.
Recognizing this vulnerability, the Cambodian government took decisive steps to build a local cement industry from the ground up.
Building an Industry Brick by Brick
The journey toward self-sufficiency began with the establishment of Kampot Cement Co. Ltd., followed by successive investments that transformed the country’s industrial landscape. Over the past 15 years, Cambodia has welcomed five more major players into the cement sector: Cambodia Cement Chakrey Ting, Chip Mong Insee Cement, Battambang Conch Cement, Thai Bun Rong Cement, and the most recent, Conch KT Cement.
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Together, these six factories represent a total investment of over $1.11 billion and contribute an annual production capacity of around 11 million tonnes—a figure that fully meets domestic demand and supports the growing export ambitions of the Kingdom.
The Turning Point: Inauguration of Conch KT Cement
In 2024, Prime Minister Hun Manet officiated the opening of Conch KT Cement (Phnom Penh) Co., Ltd. in Kampong Speu province. This $250 million plant, a joint venture between Hong Kong-based Conch International Holdings and Battambang Conch Cement, marked a significant milestone in Cambodia’s industrial journey.
This factory alone is set to produce 2.2 million tonnes of cement annually and is expected to create around 1,000 new jobs, further strengthening Cambodia’s manufacturing and employment landscape. With limestone exploration rights secured for over 338 hectares in Kampong Speu’s Oral District, the factory has access to a vital raw material, ensuring long-term production stability.
Cement Exports Become Reality
2024 marked another proud moment for Cambodia: it exported over 30,000 tonnes of cement to Thailand—a full-circle achievement for a country that once depended on its neighbor for cement. This export milestone is more than symbolic; it signifies Cambodia’s readiness to compete in regional markets.
Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed deep pride during the inauguration, stating that Cambodia’s transformation from a 100% importer to a self-sufficient producer and exporter is a testament to the country’s peace, political stability, and investor-friendly policies. He credited “win-win politics” and proactive governance as the foundational drivers behind this success.
A Fast-Growing Sector with More to Come
Cambodia’s cement industry isn’t slowing down. According to Keo Rottanak, Minister of Mines and Energy, three more cement plants are under construction in Kampot, Battambang, and Kratie provinces. Once completed, these plants are expected to add an additional 5 million tonnes of annual production capacity.
This expansion will position Cambodia not just as a cement exporter, but as a significant player in the ASEAN cement market. In 2023 alone, Cambodia’s cement factories produced 8.43 million tonnes of cement. With the new facilities in development, that number is expected to rise sharply, offering new opportunities for both domestic use and exports.
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Strategic Government Support
To sustain the growth of this vital industry, the government is providing significant support. For example, no taxes will be levied on cement factories for the next five years, a move aimed at making Cambodian cement more competitive in price.
In addition, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Mines and Energy are collaborating on strategies to increase competitiveness and explore international markets. The Cambodian Cement Manufacturers Association has also been tasked with driving expansion beyond local demand.
The Prime Minister has also called for a balanced approach when it comes to issuing new cement licenses. He urged the Ministry of Mines and Energy to carefully review new proposals to avoid market oversaturation and potential business failures, ensuring the long-term health of the industry.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Cement manufacturing has not only supported Cambodia’s construction boom but also stimulated the local economy. With thousands of jobs created across the sector—from limestone mining to factory operations—entire communities have benefited.
In 2024, non-tax revenue from the mining sector, including cement, soared to $100 million, a 79% increase compared to the previous year. This revenue is reinvested in public services, infrastructure, and development projects, creating a positive feedback loop for growth.
Moreover, domestic production reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance cement transportation. While cement is not an inherently “green” product, localizing its production is a step toward minimizing the environmental impact.
A Model for Industrial Self-Sufficiency
Cambodia’s cement industry is a model for how a country can move from dependency to dominance through strategic planning, targeted investments, and public-private partnerships. By focusing on core needs and building up internal capacity, Cambodia has laid the groundwork for future industrial transformations in other sectors.
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The cement sector’s growth is a microcosm of Cambodia’s broader economic ambitions: to become a competitive, self-reliant, and export-driven economy in Southeast Asia.
Final Thoughts: Cementing the Future
Cambodia’s evolution from a cement-importing country to a self-sufficient exporter is a compelling story of national determination, policy coherence, and investor confidence. It showcases what is possible when infrastructure development is paired with good governance and long-term vision.
As Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed during the latest inauguration, “Cambodia has maintained peace, political stability and macroeconomic stability. The government will continue to make efforts to strengthen the investment climate to attract more investors to Cambodia.”
With the cement sector paving the way, Cambodia’s industrial future looks stronger than ever.
What Do You Think?
Do you believe Cambodia’s cement industry can become a top regional exporter? Share your thoughts, questions, or ideas in the comments. Let’s build the conversation—brick by brick!
What Do You Think?
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Final Thoughts
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