In April 2025 alone, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) approved 59 investment projects with a total capital of $860 million, bringing the total number of approved projects in the first four months of 2025 to 231.
According to a May 6 press release from the CDC, the 59 approved projects are expected to create around 39,000 jobs. Of them, 32 are located outside of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), while 27 are within SEZs. Overall, project approvals in April 2025 increased by 37 projects compared to April 2024, equivalent to a 168% increase, while total investment capital increased by over $550 million, or about 178%.
During the first four months of 2025, the CDC approved 231 projects with an aggregate investment of $3.4 billion. Compared to the same period in 2024, the number of projects rose by 103, or about 80%, and investment capital grew by more than $856 million, or approximately 34%.
According to the CDC, major approved projects in April include a $242 million tyre manufacturing plant in the ISI Special Economic Zone (Preah Sihanouk province); another $93 million tyre factory in the Chea Lou Chian Pu Chay SEZ (Svay Rieng province); as well as projects such as home appliance manufacturing, solar panel and component production and assembly, dry port investment, medical equipment manufacturing, electric tricycle assembly and the establishment of a tourism resort.
The CDC reported that Chinese investors continued to lead in April 2025, contributing 58.51% of total investment capital, followed by Singapore (35.1%), Cambodia (4.51%), the UK (1.65%) and the US (0.23%).
Hong Vanak, an economist at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, told The Post on May 7 that the rise in approved projects reflects growing investor confidence and a recognition of opportunities for direct investment in Cambodia, which benefits from both internal and external advantages.
He explained that internal factors include Cambodia’s political stability, strong economic growth, favourable investment laws, good transport infrastructure, a large and youthful labour force, abundant natural resources and a central location within ASEAN. External factors include free trade agreements with countries like China and South Korea, as well as the multilateral RCEP agreement, which includes 15 member countries.
“Setting aside the recent US customs tariff pressures imposed on many countries, including Cambodia, I believe the Kingdom remains a top choice for investors. Investment in Cambodia not only receives strong government attention and incentives but also benefits from a skilled and educated young workforce,” he said.
