PHNOM PENH: Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation H.E. Hem Vanndy met with a Malaysian business delegation last week, led by Dato’ Sri Dr. Ricky Yaw, President of the Malaysia-Cambodia Business Association (MCBA).
The meeting focused on exploring investment opportunities and strengthening business partnerships between the two countries, according to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI).
“Our goal is to encourage Malaysian investors to invest in Cambodia, and likewise, facilitate Cambodian enterprises in exploring opportunities in Malaysia and forming strategic partnerships,” said Dr. Yaw. He also expressed hope for continued support from the MISTI to address startup and business challenges.
Minister Vanndy welcomed the delegation’s increasing interest and reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to providing a stable, conducive and investor-friendly environment.
“MISTI is ready to assist you with factory licensing, factory planning, and industrial safety standards. We have no restrictions on automation and robotics in your factories,” he said, noting that this policy reflects the government’s ambition to modernize its manufacturing capabilities and advance toward higher value-added production.
He highlighted Cambodia’s open investment regime, incentive schemes, an expanding skilled labor force, and government-backed initiatives such as the Skill Development Fund and co-financing schemes with companies like Toyota.
Moving beyond traditional garment manufacturing, H.E. Vanndy encouraged Malaysian investors to consider sectors such as food processing, technology, medical devices, and especially value-added manufacturing, including the furniture industry.
“There is significant potential for the furniture industry here, particularly through partnerships with local businesses. We can find sustainable ways to develop timber resources and support the furniture industry,” he said.
H.E. Minister also invited the delegation to explore opportunities within Cambodia’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) or to consider establishing a dedicated Malaysian SEZ. Additionally, he recommended engaging with Khmer Enterprise to connect with local startups involved in food processing, technology, and innovation. “We have a list of promising startups that could be excellent partners for your ventures,” he added.
Reassuring the investors, Minister Vanndy emphasised Cambodia’s growth prospects, “Cambodia is a revolving, yet peaceful and stable country committed to economic development; you must have faith and hope that there is a future and growth for your business here.”
He encouraged investors to work through official government channels and avoid reliance on informal intermediaries.