PURSAT: A new Ford production line and sub-assembly plant was officially inaugurated this morning in Pursat province, marking a significant milestone for Cambodia’s burgeoning automotive industry. The auspicious event was presided over by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, underscoring the government’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and diversifying the national economy.
During the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed his strong appreciation for the establishment of the state-of-the-art facility by the iconic U.S. car manufacturer. He highlighted Pursat province’s increasing appeal as a destination for international investors, particularly those from the United States, Japan, and other nations, noting that the province now boasts approximately 400 operational factories.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Cambodian government’s unwavering support for investors, pledging to further ease regulatory burdens through measures such as tax reductions and by ensuring long-term political and economic stability within the Kingdom.
“Today, Cambodia can proudly label products ‘Made in Cambodia’ not only on garments and textiles but also on cars,” the Prime Minister declared with pride. “This signifies a truly significant milestone in our nation’s economic development.”
Samdech Thipadei also reiterated Cambodia’s open and welcoming stance towards all foreign investors, emphasizing the nation’s dedication to fostering a non-discriminatory investment environment where all are treated equitably.
The newly inaugurated Ford production line and sub-assembly plant is operated by RMA Cambodia, a well-established private company that has been a part of Cambodia’s economic landscape since 1992.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Kevin Whitcraft, CEO of RMA Group, shared details of the company’s significant investment in the project. He revealed that an initial investment of US$21 million was made to establish the assembly plant on a five-hectare site. Demonstrating the company’s growing commitment and confidence in Cambodia’s potential, the project has since expanded to cover 12 hectares, with the total investment now reaching US$26.8 million.
Furthermore, Mr. Whitcraft announced a significant upgrade to the plant’s production capabilities. The facility has transitioned from Completely Knocked Down (CKD) assembly to Incompletely Knocked Down (IKD)-1 level. This technological advancement will enable a substantial increase in production capacity, now exceeding 10,000 vehicles per year, meeting the growing demand in the local and potentially regional markets.
According to Prime Minister Hun Manet, this latest addition brings the total number of car assembly plants operating in Cambodia to nine, further solidifying the country’s position as an emerging player in the regional automotive sector. The inauguration of Ford’s new plant represents not just an economic boost but also a symbol of Cambodia’s industrial progress and its increasing integration into the global supply chain.