CIR Lifestyle
Cambodia’s British business community is preparing to mark a major milestone, as the British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (BritCham) celebrates its 30th anniversary with a fully booked gala event at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. The celebration reflects three decades of increasingly active bilateral engagement between the United Kingdom and Cambodia, driven by growing commercial ties, sector diversification, and renewed confidence among companies operating across the Kingdom.
The anniversary gala has quickly become one of the most anticipated events in the business calendar, drawing corporate leaders, government figures, investors, and long-standing members who have helped shape BritCham’s evolution since its launch in the mid-1990s. The sold-out status underscores the organisation’s strengthening role within Cambodia’s fast-moving private sector landscape, with attendance demand far exceeding initial expectations.
The evening will recognise both historical milestones and current momentum for UK-linked companies as bilateral investment interest remains robust. Central to the night’s program is the reveal of BritCham’s 100th official member, AboutASIA Travel Company, marking a symbolic moment for the organisation as membership numbers continue to climb. Attendees will also receive a signed book from BritCham Patron, British Ambassador Dominic Williams, commemorating the occasion and the community’s contributions over 30 years.
A Transformation Under New Leadership
Over the past 18 months, BritCham has embarked on a strategic revamp that has helped drive increased engagement and visibility across Cambodia’s business ecosystem. Under the direction of Executive Director Martin Darby, the organisation has expanded its program portfolio, repositioned its communication and stakeholder engagement strategies, and widened its collaboration with bilateral chambers, government partners, and international business groups.
Read More: BritCham Appoints Martin Darby as New Executive Director
The revitalisation has coincided with heightened confidence among members seeking deeper networking opportunities, clearer advocacy pathways, and stronger market-relevant programming. Business leaders have credited the new structure for restoring BritCham’s role as an influential platform for British and Cambodia-based executives.
Operational and event execution has also strengthened under the leadership of Events Head Tom Starkey, who has played a central role in reenergising BritCham’s events calendar. The organisation has broadened its mix of activities, ranging from sector-focused business briefings to informal networking sessions and premium social galas, helping attract both long-term members and emerging companies entering the Cambodian market.
A Milestone That Reflects a Changing Private Sector
The 30th anniversary arrives at a time of significant momentum across industries where British companies remain active, including education, hospitality, healthcare, consumer goods, manufacturing, financial services, and technology. While trade relationships between the United Kingdom and Cambodia have evolved considerably over the past three decades, growing numbers of British and British-affiliated companies now view Cambodia as a frontier market positioned for long-term growth.
Market watchers expect BritCham to continue expanding its footprint as the private sector becomes more diversified and as cross-border trade and investment deepen. Companies across the region are increasingly prioritising Cambodia as part of their broader ASEAN strategies, especially in sectors where the country offers competitive advantages, including infrastructure, tourism, logistics, e-commerce, and skills development.
A Show of Strength From the Business Community
Saturday’s gala stands as both a celebration and a signal of confidence in the future of BritCham and the broader business environment. The sold-out attendance highlights the higher level of participation seen in recent years, driven by both renewed engagement from legacy members and strong demand from foreign direct investors and locally established firms seeking networks and market access.
The diplomatic involvement also underscores the growing importance of business-driven engagement in strengthening UK-Cambodia relations. By presenting signed copies of his book to all guests, British Ambassador Dominic Williams is expected to emphasise the community’s continued role in fostering cross-border partnerships, supporting sustainable expansion, and contributing to Cambodia’s economic development.
