Cambodia Launches Preparations for a Unified Commerce Code

Cambodia has entered a new phase of legal reform with the formal launch of discussions to prepare a national Commerce Code, a move aimed at modernising and unifying the country’s commercial legal framework. The high level meeting, chaired by Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth in his capacity as Minister in charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers and Chairman of the Legal Reform Steering Committee, signals the Royal Government’s determination to strengthen the legal foundations that support trade, investment and long term economic growth. By initiating this process, the government is seeking to create a coherent commercial code that can simplify procedures, reduce costs and time for businesses, promote fair competition, generate employment and ultimately enhance Cambodia’s overall economic performance.

Strong Institutional Participation Reflects National Priority

The discussion was organised by the Steering Committee for Legal Reform and brought together a broad range of key institutions, including the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Council for the Development of Cambodia, the Council of Lawyers and other relevant ministries and agencies. This wide participation underscores the national importance of the Commerce Code and highlights the government’s intent to ensure that the new legal framework is comprehensive, inclusive and responsive to the needs of both the public and private sectors. The collaborative approach also reflects an understanding that commercial law reform must align policy objectives, institutional capacity and real world business practices.

Legal Reform as a Foundation for Economic Growth

Addressing participants, Vongsey Vissoth emphasised that the Commerce Code is a strategic component of the Royal Government’s broader legal reform agenda, designed to consolidate existing commercial laws into a modern and consistent legal structure. He stressed the direct link between law and economic development, stating, “When we talk about the economy, we must also talk about the law.” He warned that gaps or inconsistencies between policy and legal frameworks could slow growth and impose unnecessary burdens on businesses and citizens, reinforcing the need for a clear, predictable and well aligned commercial legal environment.

A Comprehensive and Context Driven Approach

Vissoth highlighted that the preparation of the Commerce Code must be treated as a comprehensive package that addresses economic, social, development and human resource considerations. This includes studying international theories and best practices, identifying implementation challenges and actively gathering feedback from those who will be directly affected by the new code. He also called for a thorough review of outdated, fragmented or unenforceable legal provisions, as well as inconsistencies and translation issues, while ensuring that gaps and overlaps in the current system are addressed through new and carefully drafted provisions.

Designing a Practical and Transparent Commercial Framework

Participants engaged in detailed discussions on the scope, structure and design of the proposed Commerce Code, including the technical process of codification. According to the Office of the Council of Ministers, the objective is to develop a logical and practical code tailored to Cambodia’s specific context, while remaining aligned with international legal principles. The Commerce Code is intended to enhance transparency, efficiency, accountability and legal certainty in the commercial sector, reduce complexity for businesses and build trust among traders, investors and the broader business community in an increasingly globalised economy.

Expected Benefits for Businesses and Investors

The proposed Commerce Code is expected to unify existing and future commercial laws under a single framework, clarify legal procedures from drafting to dispute resolution and establish rules that are simple, accessible and consistent with international legal logic. Officials believe this will strengthen Cambodia’s commercial legal system, improve the investment climate, boost business competitiveness, reduce trade barriers and support more inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The initiative is also expected to contribute to human resource development by strengthening expertise among judges, lawyers, legal professionals and law students specialising in commercial law.

Business Community Welcomes the Reform

The private sector has responded positively to the initiative. Speaking to Khmer Times, Lim Heng, Vice President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, expressed strong support for the Commerce Code, noting its potential to drive growth across multiple business sectors. However, he stressed that successful implementation would depend on effective enforcement and broad participation from relevant institutions and stakeholders. “We have established a commercial court, so the Commerce Code can be implemented effectively,” he said. “The commercial court will play an important role in enforcing the code and supporting the development of the commercial sector.” Lim also urged the Ministry of Commerce to accelerate the full establishment and operation of the commercial court, highlighting its importance in resolving disputes through a clear and predictable legal framework that builds investor confidence.

Aligning with Global Trade Standards

Lor Vichet, Vice President of the Cambodia Chinese Commerce Association, also voiced strong support, describing the Commerce Code as a necessary step in line with Cambodia’s obligations as a member of the World Trade Organization. He noted that the lack of a specialised court for commercial disputes has long complicated risk assessment for investors. “This is a good time for the Royal Government to send a clear message to both national and international investors that Cambodia is governed by the rule of law,” Vichet said. He added that while Cambodia already offers a favourable business environment, greater legal certainty is essential to further strengthen investor confidence and transparency.

Building Legal Certainty for Long Term Growth

Vichet emphasised that a Commerce Code would simplify legal interpretation and dispute resolution, helping investors operate more efficiently and profitably. “When we have a Commercial Code, it makes the interpretation of laws and the resolution of disputes easier,” he said. “When disputes are reduced, it ultimately allows investors in our country to operate more profitably.” He described the initiative as a key milestone in Cambodia’s judicial reform efforts, noting that a standardised legal language for trade would reduce misinterpretation and lay a solid foundation for the future establishment of a fully functioning Cambodian Commercial Court aligned with international standards.

Conclusion

The launch of preparations for Cambodia’s national Commerce Code marks a decisive step in strengthening the country’s legal and economic architecture. By unifying commercial laws, enhancing legal certainty and aligning with international standards, the initiative has the potential to improve the investment climate, support sustainable growth and reinforce confidence among domestic and international businesses. If effectively implemented, the Commerce Code could become a cornerstone of Cambodia’s long term economic development and legal reform agenda.

Cambodian companies face a growing strategic risk if they continue to overlook Generation Z, according to a recent market analysis by global logistics leader DHL, which warns that ignoring this group could mean forfeiting long term growth opportunities in one of Southeast Asia’s youngest markets. Defined as individuals born from the mid 1990s to the early 2010s, Gen Z is rapidly becoming one of the most influential consumer segments in Cambodia, reshaping how brands are discovered, evaluated, and trusted. Having grown up fully immersed in the digital era, this generation processes information quickly, filters out noise with ease, and responds poorly to marketing that feels staged or insincere, forcing businesses to rethink traditional engagement strategies if they want to remain relevant.

Authenticity, Ethics, and Value Drive Gen Z Choices

DHL’s analysis makes clear that Gen Z consumers place a premium on authenticity, transparency, and ethical responsibility, expecting brands to clearly demonstrate what they stand for rather than simply what they sell. Unlike older generations, Gen Z does not equate low price with value, instead weighing affordability against quality, sustainability, and social impact when making purchasing decisions. As the report stated, “This generation seeks genuine value for money, balancing price sensitivity with a strong preference for high-quality products that align with their ethical standards,” a mindset that is increasingly visible among Cambodian youth who are willing to pay more for sustainable products and to support businesses committed to environmental and social causes.

Brands as Identity and Self Expression Tools

For Gen Z, consumption goes beyond functionality and becomes a form of personal expression, making brand values, tone, and identity central to purchasing behavior. The DHL report highlights that Gen Z gravitates toward brands that reflect their own beliefs and lifestyles, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity, relatability, and emotional connection. On a global scale, this generation’s projected spending power of nearly $12 trillion by 2030 positions it as a dominant force in future retail growth, underscoring why Cambodian businesses must adapt early to secure relevance in both domestic and international markets.

How Businesses Can Effectively Engage Gen Z

To help companies connect with Gen Z buyers, DHL outlined six core strategies that include creating engaging and authentic content, using humor and relatability, prioritizing social media and visual storytelling, leveraging personalization, ensuring inclusivity, and applying technology with purpose. However, the analysis stresses that creativity alone will not build lasting trust. Operational performance plays an equally critical role in shaping brand credibility, particularly in digital commerce where expectations are high and patience is low. As the report emphasized, “From a convenient ordering process to prompt parcel deliveries, businesses need to deliver seamless digital experiences to reinforce the authentic and reliable brand image this generation values.”

Cambodia’s Youthful Demographic Advantage

With roughly 60 percent of its population classified as Gen Z and a median age of about 26.8 years, Cambodia stands out as one of the youngest countries in the region, giving it a unique demographic advantage if businesses and policymakers respond effectively. As digital natives, Gen Z consumers are accelerating nationwide digital adoption, encouraging innovation, and fueling new entrepreneurial ventures that could position Cambodia as a regional hub for technology driven and youth led initiatives. DHL concludes that companies that successfully engage Gen Z today are not only building customer loyalty but also laying the foundation for sustained growth in Cambodia and beyond.

Strengthening Cambodia China Cooperation in Cross Border Digital Payments

The National Bank of Cambodia and the People’s Bank of China in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Branch advanced their long term financial cooperation during a high level meeting in Phnom Penh. Governor Chea Serey and President Chen Jinxiang reaffirmed a shared commitment to enhancing the connectivity of cross border payment systems and accelerating innovation in financial technologies. According to the central bank announcement, the discussions focused on deepening bilateral ties through interoperable payment infrastructure, improved financial services, and new collaboration frameworks that support seamless transactions between the two markets.

Expanding Digital Payment Connectivity and Financial Innovation

The dialogue underscored the priority both institutions place on modernizing their financial cooperation, particularly in relation to QR based cross border payments. The two sides explored technical solutions aimed at translating policy intentions into practical, operational cooperation. These include plans for more robust payment system interconnection and integrated fintech solutions capable of supporting rising trade and investment flows between Cambodia and the Guangxi region. President Chen Jinxiang commended Cambodia’s significant economic progress, noting the launch of the Techo International Airport as a major leap strengthening the Kingdom’s role as a logistics and investment hub in Southeast Asia.

Advancing Credit Information Sharing to Support Regional Enterprises

Chen Jinxiang highlighted the strong foundation of previous cooperation and confirmed the PBC’s intention to expand collaboration in credit information sharing. This initiative is expected to improve cross border risk assessment, widen access to credit, and reinforce financial transparency for enterprises operating in both economies. In response, Governor Chea Serey welcomed the plan and emphasized Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its credit information systems in collaboration with other partner countries. She noted that these developments contribute directly to enhanced financial stability and increased trust for investors.

Promoting National Currencies in Bilateral Trade

Governor Serey also thanked the PBC Guangxi Branch for its continued support in including the Riel in the region’s official currency trading table. This effort promotes the broader use of the Yuan and the Riel in trade settlement, which she stated has facilitated cross border commerce while reducing reliance on third party currencies. In her official post, she wrote, “I am pleased to welcome Chen Jinxiang, President of PBC Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Branch and his colleagues. We discussed the cooperation between the central banks of the two countries, especially in the payment system.” She further affirmed, “We also learned about each other’s economies, especially in terms of promoting investment by investors from Guangxi province to Cambodia and the payment of goods between the two countries in Chinese Yuan and Cambodian Riel.”

Practical Benefits for Businesses and SMEs

The use of the Yuan and the Riel for trade settlement continues to rise as businesses recognize their practicality. The direct exchange rate introduced by the PBC Guangxi Branch has simplified procedures for traders, reduced transaction costs, accelerated payment cycles, and encouraged small and medium sized enterprises to participate more actively in cross border commerce. These steps reinforce a policy structure that strengthens Cambodia China economic cooperation and enhances the financial foundation required for sustained bilateral growth.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce Wraps Up Strategic Trade Mission in Phnom Penh.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce, operating under the broader Dubai Chambers umbrella, has concluded a high-impact trade mission in Phnom Penh aimed at strengthening commercial ties and unlocking new partnership opportunities between Cambodian and Dubai-based companies. The mission featured a series of bilateral business meetings designed to encourage collaboration across multiple industries, showcasing the chamber’s commitment to advancing global business growth.

‘Doing Business with Cambodia’ Forum Strengthens Bilateral Engagement

A major highlight of the mission was the ‘Doing Business with Cambodia’ forum, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, and the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), with support from the UAE Embassy in Bangkok. The event brought together government leaders, private-sector executives, and representatives of local companies eager to explore new avenues for cooperation. The forum opened with remarks from H.E. Tekreth Kamrang, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce; Neak Oknha Kith Meng, President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Chair of ASEAN Business Advisory Council–Cambodia; and Salem AlShamsi, Executive Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, signaling the significance of Cambodia–UAE economic relations.

Leaders Emphasize the Importance of Expanding Regional Business Opportunities

Business representatives and senior officials at the forum discussed the promising prospects for partnership, particularly in light of Dubai’s growing non-oil trade with Cambodia, which reached US$394.5 million in 2024, marking a 3% year-on-year increase. Salem AlShamsi reaffirmed the chamber’s long-term vision, stating: “We are committed to enabling Dubai-based companies to build strong partnerships in priority markets and opening new paths for international expansion. These activities support the sustainable growth of Dubai’s business community and reinforce the emirate’s position as a leading global business hub.” His remarks underscored Dubai’s strategic push to deepen its global footprint while supporting its private sector’s outward expansion.

Showcasing Dubai’s Competitive Advantages to Cambodian Businesses

During the forum, Dubai Chamber of Commerce delivered a presentation detailing the advantages of Dubai’s energetic business landscape. The session highlighted how the emirate serves as a vital gateway to fast-growing regional markets, while offering Cambodian companies access to competitive resources, world-class logistics, and a business-friendly regulatory environment. Meanwhile, the Council for the Development of Cambodia presented a comprehensive overview of Cambodia’s economic foundations, development strategies, and investment potential, emphasizing the country’s progress in attracting foreign investors.

Opportunities Identified Across High-Growth Sectors

The chamber identified several high-potential sectors that could drive trade expansion between Dubai and Cambodia. These include aluminium, iron and steel, furniture, beverages, mattresses and bedding, and aircraft and spacecraft parts. For Dubai-based investors eyeing Cambodia, promising sectors span travel and tourism, hospitality, textiles, transportation and warehousing, consumer goods, appliances, construction, and major infrastructure developments. These areas align with Cambodia’s steady economic diversification and growing investor confidence.

Dubai Delegation Features Diverse Private-Sector Leaders

The mission’s delegation included representatives from 16 Dubai-based companies operating across key industries such as building materials, engineering, FMCG trading, food and beverages, retail, healthcare, ready-made garments, textiles, beauty and cosmetics, and oil and gas. Their participation underscores Dubai’s multi-sector interest in Cambodia’s emerging market and highlights the growing momentum of bilateral commercial cooperation.

About Dubai Chambers: Empowering Global Business Ambitions

Dubai Chambers operates as a non-profit public entity dedicated to advancing Dubai’s global business presence by empowering companies, fostering innovation, and facilitating access to influential international networks. Following the restructuring announced in March 2021 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Chamber of Commerce now functions alongside Dubai International Chamber and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy under the Dubai Chambers umbrella, each contributing to the emirate’s long-term economic vision.