Cambodia Hosts Landmark Water Industry Expo to Advance Clean Water Access and Sustainability

Cambodia Investment Review

Cambodia has launched its largest-ever international water industry exhibition and conference, bringing together public and private sector leaders to promote innovation and collaboration in clean water access.

Held at the Koh Pich Exhibition and Convention Center, the three-day event is organized by the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) in partnership with the Cambodian Water Supply Association (CWA) and Informa Markets. It aims to accelerate Cambodia’s progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.1—universal access to clean and affordable water by 2030.

Strengthening Partnerships for ‘Water for All’

Minister Hem Vanndy highlighted that access to safe, sustainable, and affordable water remains fundamental to Cambodia’s economic and social development. He urged both public and private operators to strengthen their capacity, improve water quality, and adhere to national standards.

“Clean water is the foundation of public health, economic activity, and industrial growth,” Vanndy said. “I urge all operators to strengthen capacity, improve water quality, and align with national standards—because strengthening capacity means helping ourselves and strengthening our country.”

As of the third quarter of 2025, Cambodia’s clean water network has expanded to serve over 1.54 million households nationwide, with private operators contributing around 36% of total production. Vanndy acknowledged the crucial role of private companies in expanding coverage and announced that the government is preparing to establish a dedicated clean water regulator under the Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1.

Private Sector and International Collaboration

CWA President Leng Khiev emphasized the importance of collaboration among ministries, development partners, and private operators. The conference, he said, gathered participants from ten countries to share knowledge and technology that will help Cambodia meet its SDG targets and strengthen resilience to climate change.

“The private sector plays a key role in extending clean water services, particularly in rural areas,” Khiev said. “Partnerships like these are essential for advancing Cambodia’s sustainable water future.”

Innovation and Technology at the Forefront

Representing event organizer Informa Markets (AsiaWater), Senior Event Manager Haza Tukimin noted that the exhibition provides a unique platform for local and international firms to showcase cutting-edge technologies and foster partnerships.

“Through this event, we aim to support Cambodia’s water operators in modernizing their systems, improving efficiency, and ensuring long-term sustainability,” Tukimin said.

The event features more than 100 exhibitors from across the region presenting advanced water treatment technologies, products, and infrastructure solutions. It also includes technical presentations, networking sessions, and live demonstrations designed to help operators adopt new tools and approaches for improved service delivery amid growing climate challenges.

The conference underscores Cambodia’s growing commitment to sustainable development and its vision of ensuring “Water for All” — a goal that lies at the heart of the nation’s environmental and economic priorities.