Cambodia Investment Review
The International Business Chamber Cambodia (IBC) is set to host a member-only luncheon discussion titled “Five Economists Walk Into a Room” on April 1, 2026, bringing together leading economic voices to examine Cambodia’s outlook for the year ahead.
The event will take place at Shangri-La Phnom Penh from 12:00pm to 2:00pm, with registration opening at 11:30am. Designed as an interactive and discussion-led session, the luncheon aims to unpack how economists develop their forecasts and what these projections mean for businesses operating in Cambodia.
Five economists to unpack Cambodia’s outlook
The session will feature five economists representing a mix of international institutions, research bodies, and private sector perspectives. Confirmed speakers include:
- H.E. Dr. Sereyvath Ky, Director General of the Institute of China Studies at the Royal Academy of Cambodia and Professor in Economics at CamEd Business School
- Milan Thomas, Country Economist at the Asian Development Bank in Cambodia
- Dina Chhorn, Centre Director of Development Economics and Trade at the Cambodia Development Resource Institute (CDRI)
- Faya Hayati, Senior Economist at the World Bank
- Stephen Higgins, Founder and Managing Partner of Mekong Strategic Capital
Rather than delivering formal presentations, the economists will engage in a moderated discussion exploring the assumptions behind their forecasts, sector-level expectations, and areas where their views may diverge.
Focus on assumptions, sectors, and risks
According to IBC, the format is intended to provide greater transparency around economic forecasting, an area where differing projections can often create uncertainty for businesses and investors.
The discussion is expected to examine key drivers of Cambodia’s growth in 2026, including developments in trade, investment, tourism, and financial services. It will also explore potential risks and external factors that could influence economic performance, including global market conditions and regional dynamics.
By bringing multiple economists into a single conversation, the session aims to highlight not only consensus views but also differing perspectives, giving participants a more nuanced understanding of Cambodia’s economic trajectory.
Member-focused discussion and networking opportunity
The luncheon is positioned as a member-focused engagement, offering attendees the opportunity to directly interact with economists working closely on Cambodia and the broader region.
Participants will be able to raise questions during the session and gain insights into how macroeconomic trends may translate into practical business considerations.
The event will also serve as a networking platform for IBC members, combining a three-course lunch with discussion in a more informal setting compared to traditional conference formats.
Attendance is limited to IBC members, with tickets priced at $37.50 per person.
Event details
- Date: Thursday, April 1, 2026
- Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm (registration from 11:30am)
- Venue: Shangri-La Phnom Penh
- Access: IBC members only
- Price: $37.50 (includes three-course lunch)
IBC noted that registration is required to secure attendance, with limited seating available for the session.
