Category: Money

Explore opportunities to boost your income in Cambodia with Angkor Times. From insightful blogs on starting a business, investing, and making money online, to updates on the latest trends in startups and SMEs in Cambodia, this category offers practical tips and strategies to help you succeed in the Cambodian market. Stay informed and take your financial journey to the next level.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: February 11, 2025In:

Cambodia is rapidly emerging as one of the most attractive investment destinations in Southeast Asia. The country’s pro-business policies, strategic location, and rapidly expanding infrastructure make it a compelling choice for foreign investors. During the recent Philippines-Cambodia Business Forum in ...Read more

Cambodia is rapidly emerging as one of the most attractive investment destinations in Southeast Asia. The country’s pro-business policies, strategic location, and rapidly expanding infrastructure make it a compelling choice for foreign investors. During the recent Philippines-Cambodia Business Forum in Manila, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet outlined six key advantages that Cambodia offers to investors. These benefits, coupled with the Kingdom’s commitment to economic growth and sustainable development, underscore why Cambodia is an ideal place for business ventures.

PM Highlights Six Benefits Cambodia Offers to Investors
PM Highlights Six Benefits Cambodia Offers to Investors

In this blog post, we will explore these six major investment benefits in detail, along with additional reasons why Cambodia is becoming a favored investment hub.

1. A Pro-Business Environment with Attractive Incentives

Cambodia’s government has taken significant steps to create a business-friendly environment. The Royal Government has introduced regulatory reforms and generous tax incentives to encourage investment. The Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) acts as a one-stop service for investors applying for Qualified Investment Project (QIP) status, offering benefits such as tax holidays of up to 15 years.

Additionally, special investment programs have been introduced in Preah Sihanouk province and the four northeastern provinces, providing customized incentives to attract businesses. Such policies significantly reduce operational costs and make Cambodia a highly competitive destination for international investors.

2. Strong Public-Private Dialogue

A key factor that distinguishes Cambodia as an investment-friendly nation is its strong commitment to maintaining an open dialogue between the government and the private sector. The Government-Private Sector Forum, which comprises 16 sector-specific working groups, provides a structured platform where business leaders can voice concerns and work with government officials to find solutions.

This consistent and transparent communication ensures that policies remain favorable to investors and that their concerns are promptly addressed, creating a stable and predictable investment climate.

3. Strategic Location and Infrastructure Development

Positioned in the heart of the ASEAN region, Cambodia provides unparalleled access to some of the world’s most dynamic markets. The country has made substantial investments in infrastructure, particularly in transportation and logistics, to improve connectivity both domestically and regionally.

Key infrastructure projects include:

  • The expansion of Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville ports, facilitating smoother trade flows.
  • The development of Techo International Airport, which will boost connectivity for global businesses.
  • The Funan Techo Canal project, designed to enhance waterway transport and trade efficiency.

These initiatives reduce logistics costs and enhance supply chain efficiency, making Cambodia an even more attractive investment destination.

4. Expansive Regional and Global Market Access

Cambodia has leveraged its membership in ASEAN and participation in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to gain access to extensive regional markets. The country has also signed bilateral Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with China and South Korea, as well as a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates.

These agreements allow investors in Cambodia to benefit from preferential market access, reduced tariffs, and enhanced trade relations. In particular, companies that establish operations in Cambodia can leverage these agreements to export products more competitively to multiple global markets.

5. Digital Economy and Innovation

Recognizing the importance of digital transformation, Cambodia has actively developed policies to support its digital economy. The Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021-2035 aims to foster innovation, boost productivity, and promote digital inclusion.

The government is also encouraging foreign investment in technology sectors such as FinTech, e-commerce, and digital infrastructure. Investors in these fields will find Cambodia an emerging market with untapped potential and government-backed support for digital innovation.

6. Sustainable Energy and Green Growth

With its abundant solar and hydropower resources, Cambodia is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy investments. The Power Development Masterplan 2022-2040 lays out a clear roadmap for expanding renewable energy projects and ensuring long-term stability in the power sector.

The Royal Government’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 further enhances Cambodia’s attractiveness for green energy investments. Investors interested in renewable energy solutions will find a stable and predictable regulatory environment that supports long-term growth.

Why Cambodia is a Prime Investment Destination?

Growing Consumer Market

Cambodia’s population of over 17 million is increasingly urbanized and growing in purchasing power. The rising middle class presents lucrative opportunities for consumer goods, retail, and service industries.

Competitive Labor Market

Cambodia offers one of the most cost-effective labor markets in the region. Wages remain competitive compared to neighboring countries, while the workforce is young, dynamic, and increasingly skilled due to government-led vocational training programs.

Political Stability and Investor Confidence

Over the past two decades, Cambodia has maintained a stable political climate, which is a crucial factor for investors. The government’s pro-business stance, coupled with steady economic policies, fosters an environment conducive to long-term investment.

Tourism and Real Estate Boom

With world-renowned attractions such as Angkor Wat, Cambodia remains a top tourist destination, driving growth in the hospitality and real estate sectors. Hotel chains, resorts, and mixed-use developments continue to thrive, offering strong returns for investors.

Conclusion

Cambodia is quickly emerging as one of the most promising investment destinations in Southeast Asia. The country’s business-friendly policies, extensive infrastructure developments, regional market access, digital economy expansion, and commitment to sustainable growth make it an attractive option for foreign investors.

As Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized, “The Royal Government is committed to facilitating your investment journey through our supportive and guiding mechanisms, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.”

With its rapid economic growth and expanding investment opportunities, now is the perfect time to consider Cambodia as a prime destination for your business ventures.

What Do You Think?

What are your thoughts on Cambodia’s investment potential? Do you see new opportunities for foreign businesses? Share your insights in the comments below!

Reference:

AKP: PM highlights six benefits Cambodia offers to investors

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: April 24, 2026In:

At a high level meeting led by Hun Manet, the Royal Government gathered senior officials at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh to take a close look at several major policy priorities shaping the country’s economic direction. The session brought ...Read more

At a high level meeting led by Hun Manet, the Royal Government gathered senior officials at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh to take a close look at several major policy priorities shaping the country’s economic direction.

The session brought together top leadership from across ministries to evaluate progress and refine strategies aimed at reinforcing economic resilience while keeping Cambodia on track toward long term development goals.

According to an official statement, the discussions centered on strengthening fiscal discipline, improving how public funds are invested, and expanding support systems for Cambodian workers returning from overseas.

Official government meeting and collaboration

Strengthening Public Finance for Long Term Growth

A major focus of the meeting was the Draft Medium Term Public Finance Framework for 2027 to 2029, a strategic roadmap designed to ensure that Cambodia’s financial management remains stable and forward looking.

The framework outlines how government spending and revenue policies can better align with national priorities while maintaining macroeconomic stability. It emphasizes smarter budget allocation, clearer fiscal rules, and a stronger link between public spending and development outcomes.

The broader ambition is to support sustained economic growth and guide Cambodia toward its long term vision of becoming a high income nation by 2050.

Improving Public Investment Efficiency

Another key agenda item was the Draft Three Year Public Investment Programme for 2027 to 2029, which serves as a rolling plan to track and manage high priority development projects across ministries. This framework is designed to ensure that infrastructure and public investment projects deliver maximum value and align closely with national strategies such as the Pentagon Strategy Phase One and the National Development Strategic Plan.

By improving oversight and coordination, the government aims to make public investment more efficient and impactful, while also feeding into the preparation of future national budgets, including the Draft Law on Finance Management 2026.

Supporting Returning Migrant Workers

The council also reviewed ongoing efforts to support Cambodian workers returning from Thailand, particularly in response to the surge in returns during border tensions in 2025. With nearly one million workers coming back home, the government has been working to ensure they can reintegrate smoothly into local communities.

Key measures include job placement support, access to social protection, and initiatives to stabilize livelihoods.

These efforts are led in part by the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, which has accelerated programs to match returning workers with domestic job opportunities and meet growing labor demand within the country.

Coordinated Governance and Policy Reform

The meeting highlighted a strong emphasis on coordination across government institutions, with participation from deputy prime ministers, senior ministers, and other high level officials. This collaborative approach reflects a broader commitment to effective governance, policy alignment, and reform implementation.

By bringing multiple stakeholders together, the government aims to ensure that policy decisions are cohesive and responsive to evolving economic and social conditions.

Expanding Focus to National Security and Humanitarian Goals

Beyond economic policy, the council also examined several important draft laws and national strategies. These included the Draft Law on Military Conscription, aimed at strengthening national defense capabilities and ensuring readiness to meet security challenges.

In addition, the Draft National Mine Action Policy for 2026 to 2035 was reviewed, reaffirming Cambodia’s ongoing commitment to clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance while supporting communities affected by decades of conflict.

Conclusion

The latest Council of Ministers meeting underscores Cambodia’s proactive approach to managing its economic future while addressing social and security priorities. By tightening public finance strategies, improving investment efficiency, and supporting vulnerable groups such as returning migrant workers, the government is laying the groundwork for more resilient and inclusive growth.

At the same time, continued attention to national defense and humanitarian efforts reflects a balanced strategy that goes beyond economics, positioning Cambodia for stable and sustainable progress in the years ahead.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: January 9, 2022In:

If you want to stay in Phnom Penh long-term and generate your own source(s) of income, there are some ways to make money, either through a full-time job or by doing things on the side. Phnom Penh is by no ...Read more

If you want to stay in Phnom Penh long-term and generate your own source(s) of income, there are some ways to make money, either through a full-time job or by doing things on the side. Phnom Penh is by no means a ‘working city’ for foreigners, so the number of jobs available to foreigners are rather limited. Most decent jobs are obviously offered in Phnom Penh. This is true for both foreigners and Cambodians. So, if you want to make some money here, you’ve got to be creative and persistent, there aren’t many companies dying to employ you. Here are 10 ways foreigners or expats can make money in Cambodia.

How can a foreigner make money in Cambodia

How can a foreigner make money in Cambodia

The most successful ways to make money in Cambodia is to take advantage of the difference in costs of living and products between Cambodia and the developed world, to spot a niche opportunity in the market, or to exploit on a certain skillset or piece of knowledge. The less successful ways are to work as a local.

Looking at what most other people do can help you to get inspired. Here’s an overview of the most common ways for foreigners to make money in Chiang Mai:

1. Teaching English (or something else)

By far the most popular job amongst foreigners in Phnom Penh, probably in the rest of Cambodia, is teaching English. An estimated 1 out of 20 or so young, active foreigners in Phnom Penh teach English part-time or full-time, through an official school or less official, with a TEFL degree or without, at Cambodian university level or in high school.
This is not the best-paid job in the world, it can offer you a modest good living in Phnom Penh, but it gives you a lot of freedom to move all around Southeast Asia or anywhere in the world where the local population is in need of schooling. Clearly, your chances are best when you have a degree in teaching, a TEFL and as your native speaker.

You can also enroll in several programs to get a TEFL degree and work and live in Phnom Penh (for example: CM Language Institute, UNITEFL, SEETEFL, Paradise TEFL and TEFL 360).

Besides English, the most popular languages Cambodians are interested in are French, Japanese and Korean. Also, there are a lot of yoga instructors and yoga schools in Phnom Penh where you can learn or teach yoga. Other foreigners give study help to Cambodians or to students abroad (through Zoom).

2. Working online: being a Digital Nomad

Much less visible than English teachers are foreigners who generate money behind their computer screens within the confines of their own room: digital nomads. There’s probably no (consensus on an) official definition of this new societal phenomenon, but practically let’s say a ‘digital or virtual nomad‘ is someone who can travel anywhere (in the developing world) while generating money online on the go.

Working online is a preferred option for those who love the freedom of working in your own time without a boss and who don’t want to bother about the hassle of Cambodian work permits. Digital nomads take advantage of the fact that most of their work can be done remote from an office, boss, or customer, using mostly the internet or other modern technology to communicate and perform their work.

Nowadays, you can do almost anything on the net and if you’re smart, diligent, and persistent enough, you can make money with it. Here’s a range of endless possibilities:
• running a website – Internet speeds in Phnom Penh aren’t great but sufficient and definitely better than in many other parts of the developing world.

  • website design– A more creative job that involves some technical and creative skills.
    • programming / software development– technical job that you can also outsource to some local programmers. There are several foreign-run companies in Phnom Penhthat program for companies in the west and benefit from the cheaper engineers here.
    • copy writing / freelance writing / editing – You get assignments in the mail and are paid by the number of words. Do it in your own time and pace.
    • graphic design / online printing – Can be done entirely online, some guys even pretend to still have an office in Europe.
  • online / affiliate marketing – Big international companies often outsource jobs like this to anyone who wants to do it behind a screen.
  • web annotator – Another job you can do completely online. Evaluate websites based on several criteria and report to companies in Ireland / Scotland.
  • playing poker– Some wouldn’t call this work; others claim that it takes many hours of patience and learning so in that sense there’s a work element. Most people who talk about it claim to be making money and to be able to live off it, true or not.

The range of possibilities is really endless, but what all these activities have in common is that you can simply do it at home and nobody knows (especially not Immigration) that money is flowing into your Paypal account, and you can pay off your bills in Cambodia.
Some may argue that a forex trader or a poker player isn’t as much a digital nomad as a website designer, but that doesn’t really matter, the thing is you can travel anywhere and still generate your own money on the go using the internet.

Phnom Penh being such a cool place where nobody bothers you and where it’s cheap to live, a lot of international digital nomads have chosen Phnom Penh as one of their bases, alongside with other cheaper places in the world to live. Do you want to travel and work wherever you want, then this is the thing for you? Here’s an example of how your virtual nomadic life could be.

Officially, working online is probably in a gray zone in Cambodia (and many other countries) when it comes to work permits and taxes. When the money is generated within Cambodia, officially you probably need to have a work permit and to pay taxes, but most people don’t bother to report because luckily nobody knows.

3. Exporting / selling things on eBay/Amazon or Alibaba

If you are able to source a local product that is worth selling, you can ship it to Europe, the US or wherever and get a (substantial) margin on it. Most local products are, of course, fairly cheap, and you can sell them for a much higher price in more expensive countries. There are numerous interesting local products that people (tourists) like to buy here and want to have or use at home.

A few big challenges with this type of business are:
– The quality and finishing of Cambodian products is often not so good. Things wear out very quickly or you can see there is no neat finishing;
– Finding (big groups of) customers requires some effort;
– You need persistence to become successful in selling a product.

A lot of people try it out casually and give up after the first hick ups appear, then you’ll never succeed. Others pick the wrong product because they have no market sense. Every year we meet foreigners walking around with the idea of selling Cambodian coffee to Western markets, but no one ever succeeds, for many reasons.

The few people who manage to create a stable customer base and sell products from Cambodia typically choose products such as jewelry and aroma oil. Some reasons why these can sell are: Cambodian skills in design are acceptable (more so than in engineering) so minor flaws don’t matter; the products are light yet expensive compared to their weight so easy to send over even in small quantities; these products already exist in the local market and with some foreign help, you can help adapt them to western taste.

Foreigners who are more successful in exporting goods from Cambodia often operate through an eBay account or, more seriously, they set up a limited company in Hong Kong to be able to issue real invoices, while being (nearly) exempted from taxes.

4. Trading stock or foreign currencies

If you have some savings, and you’re able to leverage on it by investing or speculating on the market, you can of course earn good or big money, but you can also lose all of it. A lot of amateur traders are doing this, picking, and selling stocks and FOREX. Most of them say they’re making money and can live of it, up to you to believe it or not, some report having lost millions. Stock pickers generally seem more knowledgeable than forex traders, and those with a financial or economic background seem to do better than opportunity seekers. There are dozens of forex sites trying to lure you into trading, often with ‘guaranteed’ results.

5. Call center jobs

One of the few jobs you can get in foreign – owned offices in Phnom Penh are call center jobs. There are a few call centers here, that are always on the lookout for multilingual staff as diverse as Spanish, German, Danish and so on, besides English. You can make a modest living out of it, but few would consider this to be a lifetime career, so the turnover in these centers is probably quite high. If this is your jumping bridge to Asia, it could serve as a first start though. The call centers arrange for work permits.

6. Running a bar, restaurant, guesthouse / resort

This is one of the most common types of business, mostly for older foreigners who have fallen in love with or married a local Cambodian girl. They buy up a local bar or restaurant and run it together with their girl. Some of them underestimate the difficulties of the business, buy too expensive, get cheated by their girls, have problems managing the staff, and finally must sell at a loss. Others do okay. At least they make enough money to stay in the country while being together with their lover.

Typically, foreigners buy up a business and don’t give themselves a work permit because of the hassle of employing 4 local Cambodian, so they sit around in the bar or restaurant, not allowed to really work, while the wife does the work.

8. Renting out property

For those who have a bit of money, buying up a condo or house and renting it out again to foreigners can generate a stable source of income and a much better return than you get in the bank. Read more about buying property in Cambodia and renting out. Phnom Penh still offers quite an attractive real estate market.
Officially, this type of income is probably also in a gray zone when it comes to taxes and work permit, but thousands of foreigners do this all over the country, so for the time being, it is kind of tolerated by the Cambodian authorities.

9. Become a reporter/journalist for online newspapers

There are many opportunities for journalists to make money in Cambodia. One of the most popular is to take freelance jobs, like writing for an online newspaper. However, anyone can take up this job as there are no qualifications needed to become a reporter or journalist for an online newspaper in Cambodia.

10. Setting up your own business

A small number of foreigners manages to set up a completely new business, way different from taking over a bar or a restaurant, something new that didn’t exist before in Phnom Penh.

These businesses spotted a market opportunity, pushed through, and became successful. Of course, it takes quite a lot of entrepreneurial skills, and you won’t find enough of it in every backpacker, yoga instructor or English teacher.

A lot of entrepreneurial momentum in Phnom Penh is created by foreign ideas, what Cambodian typically do is copy it right away and go sit next door to take away your customers, so you better be prepared when you’re doing something new in town.
Some people approach us and ask what kind of jobs are available in Phnom Penh for foreigners with a decent MBA. Well, the answer is of course: nearly none, because there aren’t enough offices and businesses here that offer high quality jobs. If you have a good brain and skillet, the only way is to start something for yourself.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: May 22, 2024In:

Why Cambodia is Good for Business: Top 10 Reasons Cambodia, often known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks like Angkor Wat, is rapidly emerging as a hotspot for business and investment. Over the past decade, the country has shown ...Read more

Why Cambodia is Good for Business: Top 10 Reasons

Cambodia, often known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks like Angkor Wat, is rapidly emerging as a hotspot for business and investment. Over the past decade, the country has shown remarkable economic growth, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors. From a young, dynamic workforce to strategic government policies, Cambodia offers a myriad of opportunities for businesses. In this article, we will explore ten compelling reasons why Cambodia is an ideal place for business.

1. Strategic Location

Cambodia’s geographical location in Southeast Asia makes it a strategic hub for business. It shares borders with Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos, providing easy access to major markets in the region. Additionally, its proximity to the South China Sea facilitates efficient trade routes.

2. Young and Dynamic Workforce

With over 65% of its population under the age of 30, Cambodia boasts a young and vibrant workforce. This demographic dividend is advantageous for businesses looking to tap into a pool of energetic and trainable employees who are eager to learn and grow.

3. Growing Middle Class

Cambodia’s middle class is expanding rapidly, leading to increased domestic consumption. This growth in purchasing power creates a fertile ground for businesses, particularly in sectors like retail, hospitality, and real estate.

4. Pro-Business Government Policies

The Cambodian government has implemented a range of policies to attract foreign investment. These include tax incentives, streamlined business registration processes, and the establishment of special economic zones (SEZs) that offer additional benefits to investors.

5. Competitive Labor Costs

Compared to neighboring countries, Cambodia offers competitive labor costs. This affordability makes it an attractive destination for businesses, especially those in manufacturing and assembly industries seeking to optimize their production costs.

6. Infrastructure Development

Cambodia has made significant strides in improving its infrastructure. Major projects in transportation, energy, and telecommunications are underway, enhancing connectivity and reducing operational costs for businesses.

7. Investment in Technology

The Cambodian government is investing heavily in technology and digital infrastructure. This focus on modernization is creating a conducive environment for tech startups and companies looking to leverage digital platforms for growth.

8. Stable Economic Growth

Over the past decade, Cambodia has consistently achieved robust economic growth, averaging around 7% annually. This stability is a positive indicator for investors, reflecting a resilient and expanding economy.

9. Rich Cultural Heritage and Tourism

Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and booming tourism industry provide unique business opportunities. The influx of tourists creates demand for hospitality, travel services, and related sectors, driving growth and profitability.

10. Access to Regional and Global Markets

As a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Cambodia benefits from regional economic integration. Free trade agreements with major economies such as China, Japan, and South Korea further enhance its access to global markets.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s blend of strategic location, youthful workforce, pro-business policies, and robust economic growth makes it an excellent destination for business. Whether you’re a startup looking for a dynamic market or an established enterprise seeking expansion, Cambodia offers a wealth of opportunities.

Share Your Thoughts

What do you think about Cambodia as a business destination? Have you had any experiences investing or doing business in Cambodia? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below!

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: January 4, 2021In:

It’s been more than a 10 years since the Great Recession of 2008, and the condo market has rebounded nicely. We’ve seen at least one cycle including a seller’s market, when condos sell fast for higher prices – making it ...Read more

It’s been more than a 10 years since the Great Recession of 2008, and the condo market has rebounded nicely. We’ve seen at least one cycle including a seller’s market, when condos sell fast for higher prices – making it a difficult time to be a buyer.

Is it smart to buy a condo during a recession

Is it smart to buy a condo during a recession

If you’ve wanted to buy a condo forever but prices are simply out of your reach, you might have considered waiting until the next recession to start your condominium hunt. Is that actually a good idea?

To understand whether it is great to purchase a condo during a recession, and if we’ll see another recession like the one that hit us hard in 2008, we spoke to a few top experts in real estate.

Experts declare that buying a condominium for living and lease during this period is the greatest period to invest, because today there are many unique conditions that investors may gain profit.

Buying a condominium during this period, traders will reap many benefits, such as:

1. Get a task with quality and certainty, which means that a task is great to invest. Ongoing tasks are great because they perform not get trapped during the crisis.
2. Get special discount rates with 20 to 30 percent discount.
3. Get more choices for ongoing tasks, meaning clients can select multiple tasks.
4. They can negotiate with the task owner with more particular payment conditions, as each condominium owner or developer often offers more versatile payment terms.

 

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