Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 6 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted that in 2024, Cambodia received 414 investment projects with a total investment volume of approximately USD 6.9 billion, representing a 40 percent compared to 2023.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Mar. 6) during Cambodia-ASEAN Business Summit 2025, held at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.

“In 2024, Cambodia received 414 investment projects with an investment volume of approximately USD 6.9 billion, marking a 40 percent increase compared to 2023. The success of our international trade further demonstrates the strength of our market and the effectiveness of our policies. In fact, international trade volume grew by over 16 percent, rising from USD 46.82 billion in 2023 to USD 54.74 billion in 2024,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei continued that since becoming the ASEAN member state since 1999 Cambodia has established itself as a market with immense potential. The foundation of its economy was built on decades of strong economic growth, averaging 7 percent annually before the pandemic. The country is now on a steady path to regaining this momentum, with projected growth of 6.3 percent in 2025 and continued expansion in the range of 6–7 percent over the medium term.

In this regard, the premier attributed this strong performance to Cambodia’s open policy on international trade and investment, which offers strategic advantages such as political and economic stability, broad market access, and an improved legal framework. Both foreign and domestic investors benefit from a secure and conducive operating environment that minimises risks and ensures business sustainability.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei highlighted that Cambodia is recognised as a top destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) and a gateway to the ASEAN region. Recently, the country was included in the Financial Times’ 2024 FDI Watchlist, further affirming its attractiveness to global investors.

The premier stated that to enhance seamless connectivity with ASEAN member states and the wider region, Cambodia has been making strategic investments in an extensive physical infrastructure network, including expressways, deep-sea ports, international airports, and logistics hubs.

Premier Hun Manet also reaffirmed Cambodia’s strong commitment to fair and transparent trade as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). He stressed that Cambodia is dedicated to building a dynamic and integrated economic community through trade liberalisation and facilitation. In close collaboration with its ASEAN neighbours, Cambodia has been actively working to eliminate and reduce trade barriers, streamline customs and business registration procedures, and establish a clear and transparent legal environment.

Additionally, Cambodia has focused on expanding its market access through strategic free trade agreements, providing preferential entry to ASEAN markets and major global economies, including the European Union, the United States, China, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates.
=FRESH NEWS