Cambodia’s business landscape values power of partnerships (VIDEO)

Prime Minister Hun Manet delivering his inaugural speech at ‘Cambodia-Asean Business Summit 2025’ at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra. KT/Pann Rachana

By Sreekanth Ravindran / Khmer Times

Cambodia’s economic and business landscapes value the power of partnerships, and ASEAN is a beacon of stability and power, Prime Minister Hun Manet said as he opened the ‘Cambodia-Asean Business Summit 2025’ at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.

The summit, which was held under the theme ‘Accelerating ASEAN’s Connectivity: People, Infrastructure and Trade,’ saw over 800 representatives from 26 countries as participants alongside senior government officials, top private sector executives, and other key stakeholders.

This is a dynamic platform to foster economic cooperation and development within the ASEAN region, the Premier said, appreciating the efforts of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and other business chambers, pointing out that such events serve as catalysts for tangible progress.

“As of now, the ASEAN grouping stands as the fifth largest economy, and we have a collective aspiration of creating a deeply connected ASEAN. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between countries have led to more regional integration.

“Asean economic trajectory is strong with an annual growth rate of 4.8 percent and an inclusive Asean offers significant investment opportunities for the global markets.”

Mr Hun Manet emphasised that the Kingdom will grow at a rate of 6.3 percent in 2025 and is expected grow between 6 and 7 percent in the medium term.

“Cambodia has an open policy towards trade and investments, and local and foreign investors have benefited from the economy.

“Financial Times recently highlighted Cambodia as a top destination for FDI. The country provides the most conducive environment for businesses and investors, and we value collaboration.”

The Premier also stressed tax reforms, close cooperation between the ministers and the private sector, special incentives for investors, comprehensive vocational training programmes and an expanding digital ecosystem as key elements to further boost the growth saga.

Kith Meng, President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Chair of ASEAN Business Advisory Council-Cambodia and Nazir Razak, Chair of Asean BAC 2025, also spoke at the inaugural ceremony.

Keo Rottanak, Minister of Mines and Energy, said the Kingdom welcomes investors in the country’s energy sector as development partners.

Source: khmertimeskh.com