PHNOM PENH: Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), H.E. Sun Chanthol, announced plans for a “knock-on-door” mission to France before the end of this year. The goal is to attract more French investors to Cambodia.

The announcement came during a dinner reception held at the CDC headquarters on July 9th. The event honored the French delegation attending the 2nd France-Cambodia Business Forum.

H.E. Sun Chanthol expressed optimism that the three-day forum would lead to an increase in French investment in Cambodia.

H.E. Jacques Pellet, the French Ambassador, pledged his support in promoting and expanding direct investment from France to Cambodia. He acknowledged that current French investment remains limited.

The positive impact of existing French investment was highlighted, including companies like Vinci, Total, and Bred Bank. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) were also recognized for their contributions in areas like job creation, skills development, and economic stability.

According to the Council for the Development of Cambodia, Cambodia saw $4.9 billion invested across 268 projects in 2023. The first half of 2024 is already showing promise with 190 projects valued at $3.2 billion.

Recently, at the France-Cambodia Business Forum, Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged the importance of France as a key trade partner and foreign investor. He pointed to the $515 million in bilateral trade last year and the $206 million achieved so far in 2024.