Cambodia Investment Review
Over the past two decades, Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) has emerged as a key player in Cambodia’s growing events industry, supporting the expansion of weddings, concerts, trade exhibitions, and large-scale business gatherings. Through the development of purpose-built venues across Phnom Penh, OCIC has provided the infrastructure needed to host events ranging from private celebrations to international summits, reinforcing Cambodia’s position as an emerging destination for regional and global events.
Driven by the leadership of Lok Neak Oknha Dr. Pung Kheav Se, OCIC’s investment in event facilities complements its broader vision of integrated urban development and economic growth.
Building Venues for a Growing Event Industry
OCIC’s first major foray into the events sector came with the development of Koh Pich Exhibition and Convention Centers, located within its flagship Koh Pich development. Designed to accommodate a wide range of activities, the halls quickly became a popular destination for weddings, corporate functions, concerts, and community gatherings.
Over time, OCIC expanded its facilities to include the OCIC CCV Halls and additional exhibition spaces at Chroy Changvar Satellite City. These venues have significantly increased Phnom Penh’s capacity to host both public and private events, providing flexible spaces that can be adapted to meet a variety of client needs.
The ability to offer large, modern, and centrally located venues has not only supported local demand but also attracted regional and international organizers looking for new markets and fresh opportunities in Cambodia.
A Hub for Weddings, Concerts, and Trade Expos
Today, OCIC venues host tens of thousands of events each year, ranging from private weddings to business expos and public concerts.
Weddings remain a major driver of activity, with OCIC facilities catering to a wide range of clients, from small family gatherings to lavish ceremonies attended by hundreds of guests. The company’s venues are known for their spacious layouts, modern amenities, and convenient locations, making them a top choice for couples seeking memorable celebrations in Phnom Penh.
In parallel, the halls have become a preferred venue for concerts featuring local and international artists, providing much-needed performance spaces as Cambodia’s entertainment sector continues to grow.
Business and trade expos have also flourished at OCIC venues. Major exhibitions covering industries such as real estate, technology, education, and consumer goods frequently choose Koh Pich and Chroy Changvar sites to launch new products, hold networking events, and engage Cambodian and regional audiences. These events not only generate direct economic activity but also contribute to Cambodia’s broader business environment by fostering knowledge sharing and investment.
Hosting Global Leaders: A New Level of Recognition
Beyond private and commercial events, OCIC’s venues have demonstrated their ability to host events of international importance. In 2022, the Chroy Changvar Exhibition Halls served as one of the main venues for the ASEAN Summit, attended by world leaders including former U.S. President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The successful hosting of such a high-profile event marked a milestone for Cambodia’s event infrastructure, showcasing that Phnom Penh could meet the logistical, security, and operational demands of global diplomacy. OCIC’s facilities played a critical role in enabling this achievement, reinforcing the company’s strategic importance in Cambodia’s development as a regional hub for business and diplomacy.
Leadership in Urban Development and Event Infrastructure
The vision behind OCIC’s expansion into the events industry reflects the broader entrepreneurial approach of Lok Neak Oknha Dr. Pung Kheav Se. Beginning with the foundation of Canadia Bank and expanding into real estate, infrastructure, and urban development, Dr. Pung has consistently emphasized the importance of creating integrated spaces that support both community life and economic growth.
As noted by OCIC Vice President Thierry Tea, Dr. Pung’s leadership has been characterized by a willingness to innovate, manage complex projects, and drive new opportunities across sectors. This includes recognizing the events industry not just as a business opportunity, but as a vital contributor to Cambodia’s economic and cultural development.
By investing in multi-purpose event spaces, OCIC has helped nurture Cambodia’s creative industries, boost tourism, and support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises that rely on event-driven activity.
Future Opportunities in the Event Sector
Looking ahead, Cambodia’s event industry is poised for further expansion, and OCIC’s venues are well positioned to capture new growth. Demand for larger and more sophisticated events is expected to rise as Cambodia’s middle class expands, regional trade networks deepen, and international interest in the country continues to grow.
In this context, OCIC’s continued focus on enhancing event infrastructure—alongside its investments in urban development, transportation, and hospitality—will help solidify Phnom Penh’s reputation as an attractive destination for weddings, entertainment, and business events.
By building spaces that bring people together, foster innovation, and create economic opportunities, OCIC remains a key driver of Cambodia’s modern development story.
