Cambodia Investment Review
The second France-Cambodia Business Forum, hosted by the France-Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIFC) in collaboration with the Cambodia Committee of French Foreign Trade Advisors (CCEF) and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC), successfully concluded on July 10, 2024. The event, supported by the French Embassy in Cambodia, MEDEF International, and the Cambodian Oknha Association, commenced with an opening ceremony in Phnom Penh, presided over by Mr. Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia.
The forum brought together members of the French business community in Cambodia and representatives from various French companies operating in the region, aiming to deepen their understanding of the Cambodian market. Numerous sectors were represented, including construction, infrastructure, digital technology, healthcare, energy, urban planning, tourism, logistics, agriculture, agri-food, sustainable development, and the environment.
This event provided an exceptional platform for companies and professionals interested in economic development to discover investment opportunities in Cambodia. It facilitated connections with strategic partners, political decision-makers, and local experts. Over the past two years, bilateral relations between France and Cambodia have experienced renewed dynamism, highlighted by visits from Cambodia’s top leaders to France.
Discovering Investment Opportunities In Cambodia
The most recent visit, by Prime Minister Hun Manet on January 18-19, 2024, resulted in the signing of seven memoranda of understanding in critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and distribution. These agreements marked a new era of cooperation and underscored the Cambodian government’s commitment to private sector development.
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Trade between France and Cambodia reached €1.363 billion in 2023, with France standing as Cambodia’s second-largest European trading partner after Germany. French exports to Cambodia rose by 31% in 2023 compared to 2022, driven by agri-food products, pharmaceuticals, and metallurgical goods. Conversely, French imports from Cambodia totaled €1,192 million, predominantly in textiles, agri-food products, and bicycles.
French investments in Cambodia, amounting to approximately €560 million, have increased significantly, particularly in construction, agro-industry, and services. A dynamic network of over 400 French expatriate businesses has contributed to this investment growth. These figures highlight the robust nature of Franco-Cambodian economic relations, benefiting companies from both countries and contributing to Cambodia’s economic development.
The forum featured thematic workshops that addressed the Cambodian government’s priorities and policies in key sectors like infrastructure and logistics, agri-food and agriculture, healthcare, and energy. These sessions were led by ministerial officials. Additionally, B2B and B2G sessions offered networking and partnership opportunities between companies and government authorities.
Fostering Sustainable Development In Both Countries
Participants attended presentations on Cambodia’s economic and legal landscape, as well as public and private financing options. Roundtables discussed opportunities in sectors such as tourism, digital technology, distribution, construction, healthcare, energy, agriculture, logistics, and the environment. Insights from Francophone stakeholders enriched these discussions.
On the third day, the forum moved to Sihanoukville, where participants visited key economic sites and met with government representatives. This event served as a catalyst for new bilateral economic collaborations, fostering sustainable development in both countries.
The CCIFC facilitates trade between France and Cambodia, supporting companies in both markets through events and initiatives. The CCEF network of business leaders and international experts promotes the internationalization of French companies. The CCC fosters a business environment that enhances growth in Cambodia, offering advocacy, advice, and networking opportunities to the business community.
