Cambodia Investment Review
Royal Group Phnom Penh SEZ Plc. has signed a joint venture agreement with the Kampong Thom Provincial Administration to develop the Kampong Thom Special Economic Zone (KTSEZ), marking a significant step in Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen agricultural value chains and expand rural industrialization.
The agreement was signed on June 12 in Osaka, Japan, with the project designed as a Farm-to-Factory Agro-Processing Zone that aims to encourage import substitution, support export-oriented industries, and create greater value from Cambodia’s agricultural sector.
Connect farmers with processing industries
The initiative seeks to connect farmers with processing industries by developing integrated supply chains that transform raw agricultural products into higher-value goods. By doing so, the project is expected to generate employment opportunities, raise rural incomes, and attract investment into agro-processing activities.
The development aligns with the Cambodian government’s broader strategy to modernize agriculture, diversify the industrial base, and promote more balanced regional economic growth. It also supports efforts to improve the competitiveness of Cambodian agricultural products in both domestic and international markets.
“This project represents a new venture for our company and reflects our commitment to contributing to rural development by leveraging the expertise we have cultivated over the past two decades,” said Kith Meng, Chairman of Royal Group Phnom Penh SEZ Plc.
20 years of experience in developing special economic zones
He added that the company aims to create sustainable employment opportunities, provide stable income sources for rural communities, and support the long-term development of Cambodia’s agro-industrial sector through the new special economic zone.
Royal Group Phnom Penh SEZ Plc. said it plans to leverage more than 20 years of experience in developing special economic zones to position KTSEZ as a leading agro-processing hub. The company expects the project to strengthen agricultural supply chains, attract quality domestic and foreign investment, and create sustainable economic opportunities for Cambodian farmers and businesses.
The project is also consistent with the economic vision of Hun Manet and the Royal Government’s policies to promote agricultural modernization, industrial diversification, and regional development.
Royal Group is one of Cambodia’s largest and most diversified conglomerates, with business interests spanning banking and finance, insurance, telecommunications, energy, transport, media, hospitality, education, property development, and trading.
