The second day of the eighteenth Cambodia Trade Expo 2025 placed a strong emphasis on women’s leadership in the national business landscape, signaling a major push toward greater gender inclusivity in commerce. The event showcased a dedicated forum that celebrated women’s contributions in multiple sectors while stressing the urgency of widening opportunities for female entrepreneurs to participate meaningfully in trade and economic development. With growing interest from policymakers, development partners and the private sector, the expo reinforced a shared commitment to elevating women as drivers of growth and innovation.
Women in Commerce Forum Highlights the Gender Agenda
Organised by the Ministry of Commerce’s Gender Working Group, the “Women in Commerce” forum served as a platform to recognise women’s vital economic roles and to encourage more active engagement in entrepreneurship, trade and commercial governance. Attendees included representatives from government institutions, financial organisations, development agencies and established private sector players. Their discussions provided valuable insights drawn from real experiences, particularly around how to empower women to enter and advance in business despite ongoing constraints.
Underscoring Women’s Role in Economic Growth
Keynote speaker Serei Borapich, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, emphasised that women remain central to Cambodia’s economic growth yet often lack the recognition and support they deserve. She highlighted that women-owned micro, small and medium enterprises represent a substantial share of the economy, especially in retail, services and light manufacturing, but many female entrepreneurs continue to face difficulties in scaling their operations. “Women in Cambodia possess enormous entrepreneurial potential, but access to finance, digital skills, market information and networking opportunities remains limited for many,” she said. “Strengthening women’s participation in commerce is not only a matter of equality, but also essential for national economic competitiveness.”
Persistent Challenges Facing Female Entrepreneurs
Chan Pheary, President of the Cambodian Women Entrepreneurs Association, echoed these concerns, stressing that although the number of women-led businesses is rising, structural and operational obstacles still limit their growth. Many women struggle to move beyond small scale operations, penetrate export markets or navigate complex regulatory processes. “Cambodian women are resilient and innovative, but they often operate with fewer resources and face more risks,” Pheary said. “Support mechanisms such as mentorship, training and inclusive financing are vital to help women entrepreneurs move from survival businesses to growth-driven enterprises.” Her remarks reinforced the need for sustained institutional support to ensure female entrepreneurs can transition into competitive business leaders both locally and regionally.
Growing Importance of Digital Skills and Financial Literacy
Speakers from development organisations and financial institutions further highlighted the role of digital transformation and financial literacy in helping women succeed in commerce. They shared ongoing initiatives aimed at boosting capability among women led MSMEs, including specialised credit schemes, skills development programmes and regional networking platforms. These efforts are designed to bridge gaps that hinder women from accessing modern tools, expanding into new markets and strengthening their businesses in an increasingly technology driven economy.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Leaders
The forum also offered a series of panel discussions and experience sharing sessions featuring women who lead across diverse sectors. Their stories aimed to motivate younger women to pursue entrepreneurship and step confidently into leadership roles. Organisers underscored that the event is part of the Ministry of Commerce’s wider agenda to integrate gender equality into trade policies and create a more inclusive and supportive commercial environment for all.
CTExpo 2025 Opens Opportunities for Business Engagement
Taking place at the PH Grand Hall at Borey Peng Huoth Boeng Snor in Phnom Penh, CTExpo 2025 runs from December 4 to 7 and is open to the public at no cost. Visitors are encouraged to explore a wide variety of products and services from both local and international exhibitors. Alongside the displays, thematic forums continue to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and Cambodia’s expanding trade potential, making the expo an essential platform for businesses, investors and aspiring entrepreneurs.