A business delegation comprising 38 Japanese companies led by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), yesterday met Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) and discussed Cambodia’s investment climate.
Wakabayashi Kohei, Director of JETRO Representative Office in Phnom Penh, led the delegation.
During the meeting, Chanthol highlighted investment opportunities in several sectors suited for Japanese projects, including shipping, manufacturing, satellite ports, warehouses, and logistics centres.
On priority investment areas, Chanthol provided insight to consider including industrial plants, physical infrastructure, agriculture and agro-industry, green energy, education and training, the development of special economic zones (SEZs), small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and other services.
He apprised the visiting delegation about the policies and incentives implemented by the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and promote economic diversification for achieving high-income country status by 2050.
He also briefed the delegation on the CDC mission, which serves as the RGC’s single entry point for managing private investment and the development of SEZs. The CDC has been working diligently to improve the business and investment climate, particularly through the digitalization of public services.
“Specifically, CDC has introduced the Cambodia Investment Project Management System (cdcIPM), to facilitate both international and local investors to apply for investment from anywhere and at any time via the Internet,” he said.
Highlighting several factors that make Cambodia an attractive investment destination, including peace and political stability, macroeconomic stability, a young workforce eager to embrace new training, and government support for private sector growth through the government-private sector forum, the Deputy Prime Minister also stressed the country’s flexible and highly preferential investment laws, as well as the ongoing development of intermodal transport infrastructure, which is becoming more diverse and interconnected.
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“This infrastructure is expected to enhance integration both within Cambodia and across the region, further supported by the country’s strategic geographical location, which is poised to become a regional logistics hub in the future,” he added.
Concerning the intermodal transport infrastructure, he specifically highlighted the Funan Techo Canal construction project, expected to significantly transform Cambodia’s navigation and sea transport sectors.
According to a CDC announcement, the Japanese business delegation expressed their appreciation for the government’s and the CDC’s efforts in coordinating and supporting both new and existing investments in the Kingdom.
These initiatives have enhanced the confidence of future investors, helping them make informed decisions about investing in Cambodia’s growing and supportive business and investment environment, the statement added.
Speaking to Khmer Times, Seun Sam, a policy analyst at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, emphasised the significance of this meeting, which was attended by high-level dignitaries, including the Deputy Prime Minister, Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Cambodian Investment Board (CIB) at CDC, and the Director of JETRO.
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Sam said that to successfully attract Japanese investments, Cambodia must enhance transparency, accountability, and streamline legal procedures.
He further noted that while Japan is a strong investor, Cambodia should position itself as a facilitator, making efforts to understand the specific needs of Japanese investors.
Beyond focusing on profits, Cambodia should also consider any adjustments the Japanese side may require to foster genuine investment in the country, he added.