The discussion was held here on July 16 between H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism and H.E Dr. Chea Serey, NBC Governor.

The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and the NBC, and included a visit to the Cambodia’s Museum of Economy and Money – Preah Srey Içanavarman.

On this meaningful occasion, H.E. Huot Hak took the opportunity to express gratitude, praise, and high appreciation to the NBC governor and her team for the many achievements the NBC has made in recent times.

These include the acceptance of old or damaged US dollars, the development of the Bakong payment system, and the launch of the “Bakong Tourist App”, which has significantly contributed to supporting Cambodia’s tourism sector by facilitating payments for international tourists visiting the country.

The Ministry of Tourism and the NBC addressed ways to further promote the Bakong Tourist App, potentially in collaboration with the Visit Cambodia App, to better facilitate payments for international tourists.

The meeting also focused on jointly promoting the Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum —a historical tourism product located in the heart of Phnom Penh—as well as supporting the ongoing “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign, which runs from May to October.

NBC launched the Bakong Tourists App in August 2024 in Siem Reap province. The App has contributed to promoting tourism in Cambodia by providing an electronic payment method that allows international tourists to make payments for goods and services efficiently and conveniently, and to experience a new digital payment experience in Cambodia.

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Secretary General of CDC’s Cambodian Investment Board (CIB) H.E. Chea Vuthy chaired the assessment meeting on May 12 at CDC, Phnom Penh, with representatives from relevant ministries, institutions, and provincial administrations in attendance.

One of the applications was the proposal for an expansion of the iron ore business in Kampot province.

The other twelve were new projects proposed for operations in Cambodia’s provinces of Kandal, Kampong Speu, Takeo, Kampot, and Mondulkiri.

Key manufactured products under the investment projects include kitchen and bathroom supplies, sanitary equipment, and electronic appliances made of both plastic and metal.

The development of a 150-megawatt wind power generation station was also part of the reviewed investment applications.

Together, once operational, the projects are expected to offer about 7,300 jobs.

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Key export items included garments, footwear, travel goods, bicycles, car tyres, solar panels, and various agricultural products such as rice, rubber, cassava, bananas, mangoes, and longans.

The country’s top five export destinations during this period were the United States, Vietnam, Japan, China, and Canada, the report noted.

On the import side, Cambodia brought in goods valued at US$10.36 billion from January to April 2025, representing a 19.7 percent year-on-year increase. Major imported items included petroleum, raw materials for the garment, footwear, and travel goods sectors, vehicles, machinery, electronic appliances, and consumer products.

H.E. Penn Sovicheat, Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce, attributed the export growth to rising global demand and the government’s proactive trade facilitation policies. He highlighted the impact of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with China, South Korea, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in expanding market access for Cambodian products.

“The implementation of these FTAs has significantly reduced tariffs and trade barriers, making Cambodian goods more competitive in the global marketplace,” he said.

Cambodia’s industrial sector, including both garment and non-garment manufacturing, remains a key driver of economic growth by boosting exports and attracting foreign investment.

The garment, footwear, and travel goods industry continues to be the largest foreign exchange earner for Cambodia. As of the latest report from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, the sector comprises approximately 1,538 factories and branches, employing around 913,000 workers—most of whom are women. AKP

The post Cambodia’s Exports Reach US$9.13 Billion in in January-April Period first appeared on Estatedia | Economy & Real Estate Media in Cambodia.

Through this collaboration, they will offer their customers the country’s popular and secure payment methods for enhanced convenience in cashless transactions.

The​ partnership​ introduces​ an​ Account-on-File​ (AoF)​ feature,​ allowing​ Grab​ users​ to​ securely​ link​ their​ accounts​ within​ the​ Grab​ app​ for​ hassle-free,​ automatic​ payments.​

Once​ the​ ABA​ account​ is​ linked,​ users​ can​ pay​ seamlessly​ for​ rides​ and​ food​ deliveries​ without​ any​ extra​ steps.​ This​ integration​ enhances​ the​ convenience​ and​ security​ of​ cashless​ transactions,​ benefiting​ millions​ of​ customers​ across​ Cambodia.

Additionally,​ the​ PayWay​ Plus​ platform,​ powered​ by​ Visa’s​ CyberSource​ solution,​ was​ chosen​ as​ Grab’s​ new​ local​ payment​ gateway​ for​ processing​ all​ card​ payments​ within​ Cambodia.​

This​ shift​ to​ a​ local​ gateway​ improves​ Grab’s​ transaction​ management​ and​ reliability​ while​ supporting​ various​ payment​ methods,​ including​ Visa,​ Mastercard,​ and​ UPI​ cards.​

“Grab’s​ mission​ has​ always​ been​ to​ drive​ Southeast​ Asia​ forward.​ By​ partnering​ with​ ABA​ Bank,​ we​ are​ taking​ a​ significant​ step​ towards​ providing​ our​ users​ with​ a​ seamless​ and​ secure​ digital​ payment​ experience,”​ said​ Kang​ Sovannarot,​ Cambodia​ Country​ Head​ of​ Grab.​

“This​ partnership​ is​ a​ testament​ to​ our​ commitment​ to​ bring​ more​ value​ to​ our​ users.” He added.

ABA Bank partners with Grab to offer seamless, secure digital payments, enhancing convenience and supporting a cashless, digital economy in Cambodia, says Zokhir Rasulov, ABA’s Chief Digital Officer.

“We’re simplifying transactions for millions by integrating ABA PayWay’s Account-on-File into the Grab app. We’re excited to keep innovating with Grab to meet customer needs and support Cambodia’s digital transformation,” he concluded.

ABA PayWay enables businesses in Cambodia to accept online and in-store payments from any banking app and local or international cards. Customers can pay seamlessly in USD and KHR via ABA Pay, KHQR, Visa, Mastercard, UPI, JCB, Alipay, and WeChat. With this platform, businesses can monitor transactions in real time and benefit from the secure PCI-DSS-compliant integration. ​

Overview of ABA PayWay

ABA PayWay is a prominent online payment gateway in Cambodia, provided by Advanced Bank of Asia Ltd. (ABA Bank). It is designed to facilitate e-commerce transactions, allowing businesses to accept various forms of payment from customers.

Key Features:

• Multiple Payment Options: ABA PayWay supports payments through major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay, as well as local payment methods like the ABA PAY QR code. This variety ensures that businesses can cater to a broad customer base.
• Merchant Portal: The platform offers a comprehensive merchant portal where businesses can manage transactions, issue refunds, and handle invoicing. Users can also manage roles and access permissions within the portal.
• Easy Integration: The gateway can be integrated into e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce with minimal technical expertise required. This ease of setup allows businesses to quickly start accepting payments online.

Setting Up

To utilize PayWay, businesses must follow these steps:

1. Business Registration: Companies need to be legally registered in Cambodia.
2. Open a Business Bank Account: A business account with ABA Bank is necessary to receive payments.
3. Integration Process: Businesses can integrate the payment gateway using the provided API documentation and code samples, primarily in PHP. A sandbox environment is available for testing before going live.

Benefits

• Cost Efficiency: The service is designed to minimize setup costs and does not require extensive technical knowledge for integration.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Merchants can monitor transactions in real-time, providing immediate insights into sales performance.
• Support for Local Payments: The inclusion of KHQR codes allows for easy payments directly from bank accounts, enhancing convenience for customers who prefer local payment methods.

Conclusion

ABA PayWay stands out as a reliable solution for Cambodian businesses looking to expand their online payment capabilities. Its comprehensive features and user-friendly integration process make it an attractive option for both new and established e-commerce platforms in the region.

The post ABA and Grab Forge Strategic Partnership to Enhance Payment Solutions first appeared on Estatedia | Economy & Real Estate Media in Cambodia.

This momentous event celebrated the power of business to drive positive social change and underscored the ASEAN region’s commitment to sustainable development.

The awards ceremony was a gathering of influential figures from various sectors, including representatives from the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, the Ministry of Commerce, and esteemed business associations. The Great ASEAN CRS Business Awards 2024 honored excellence in five categories:

• Great ASEAN CSR Community Award 2024 (10 winners)
• Great ASEAN CSR Star Award 2024 (3 winners)
• Great ASEAN CSR Business Award 2024 (12 winners)
• Great ASEAN CSR Entrepreneur Award 2024 (34 winners)
• Great ASEAN CSR Leader Award 2024 (13 winners)

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Mr. Heang Vuththa, President of the Global Entrepreneur 1% Club, emphasized the profound impact of social responsibility on both businesses and communities. He highlighted the event’s role in promoting sustainable development and improving the lives of people across the ASEAN region.

The rigorous selection process, which spanned over 80 days, involved evaluating 3,760 applicants from 39 countries. A meticulous review narrowed down the field to 280 potential candidates, ultimately leading to the selection of 75 winners.

Dr. Kong Vithera, founder of KPF and Vice President of the Global Entrepreneur 1% Club (Social Work), underscored the importance of balancing profit with social impact. He urged business owners and entrepreneurs to prioritize social responsibility as a key driver of sustainable growth and development.

The Global Entrepreneur 1% Club aims to inspire more entrepreneurs to engage in social work and hopes to see future awards ceremonies on an even larger scale, with increased participation from businesses and organizations.

This prestigious event showcases the power of business to drive positive social change and underscores the commitment of the ASEAN region to sustainable development.

The post Cambodia Successfully Hosts Prestigious ASEAN CRS Business Awards 2024 first appeared on Estatedia | Economy & Real Estate Media in Cambodia.

H.E. Minister made the remarks while presiding over the closing ceremony of Cambodian Women Entrepreneurs Day 2024, organised here on Nov. 11 by the Cambodian Women Entrepreneurs Association (CWEA) under the theme “Women Empowerment in Green Economy”.

He noted women’s growing contribution to Cambodia’s business landscape, particularly in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). “Promoting women’s entrepreneurship requires combined efforts of all stakeholders to integrate their businesses into regional and global value chains, harness local resources, and adopt new technologies,” Minister Vanndy said.

Women entrepreneurs lead 69.2 percent of Cambodia’s economic units, according to the Ministry of Planning’s 2022 census. With Cambodia’s economy expected to grow around 6 percent in 2024—driven by sectors like garment exports, non-garment manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and trade—H.E. Hem Vanndy stressed that women-led businesses are crucial to sustaining this momentum.

The Royal Government of Cambodia is actively implementing strategies and policies designed to support women entrepreneurs, with initiatives focused on enhancing productivity, expanding market access, and providing critical financial resources to help businesses to thrive, said the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, adding that platforms such as ASEANAccess and KhmerSME offer essential business information in the region to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), equipping them with the tools and resources necessary for sustainable growth and success.

Addressing attendees at the event, the industry minister encouraged SMEs to formalize their businesses, emphasising that doing so would enhance their ability to access support, contribute to the government’s targeted policymaking, and strengthen their long-term business resilience and growth.

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From January to October this year, the Kingdom exported 507,029 tonnes of milled rice to 66 foreign countries and territories, earning more than US$376 million, stated the report.

Twenty-six (26) countries in Europe bought a combined amount of 254,945 tonnes of milled rice from Cambodia worth approximately US$197 million, it added.

At the same time, it continued, seven countries in the ASEAN bloc imported 100,996 tonnes worth US$66.61 million, while China purchased 93,197 tonnes worth US$61.48 million.

Cambodia also shipped almost 58,000 tonnes of milled rice to other destinations, generating a total income of US$51.61 million, said the source.

Rice varieties the country exported included fragrant rice, long-grain white rice, parboiled rice, and organic rice, among others.
The CRF’s report pointed out that some 4.03 million tonnes of paddy rice worth US$1,184 million were traded across the border to neighbouring countries during the said ten-month period.

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The launch ceremony, held at the ministry early this week, was presided over by H.E. Mrs. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, and attended by foreign ambassadors, representatives from relevant ministries and institutions, the private sector, and development partners.

A joint initiative of the Ministry of Commerce and the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI), the ESC aims to stimulate Cambodia’s exports, equip traders with export readiness, and instill confidence in their ability to compete internationally.

Through the ESC, exporters will gain access to training on export procedures and networking opportunities with experts and potential buyers in target markets, the ministry emphasized.

Cambodia’s export performance has been strong in the first three quarters of 2024, with goods valued at approximately US$19.8 billion, representing a 17 percent increase from the same period last year, according to the General Department of Customs and Excise of Cambodia.

The United States remains the largest market for Cambodian products, accounting for 38 percent of total exports with a value of US$7.6 billion. Vietnam follows as the second-largest market, with imports from Cambodia reaching US$2.7 billion, a 33.8 percent year-on-year increase. China is the third-largest market, with exports valued at US$1.27 billion, a 20 percent increase.

Cambodia’s primary export products include garments, machinery, electrical equipment, footwear, leather goods, grain, furniture, rubber, fruits, vegetables, pearls, toys, and textiles.

The post Cambodia Launches Export Service Center to Boost Global Trade first appeared on Estatedia | Economy & Real Estate Media in Cambodia.

To answer this, let’s explore the key areas where Cambodia is showing rapid progress and development that hint at a similar path Singapore took.

1. Economic Growth and Development

According to the world bank, Cambodia’s economic landscape has undergone significant transformation over the past two decades. Between 1995 and 2019, the country achieved an average annual GDP growth rate of 7.6%, positioning it among the fastest-growing economies globally. This economic progress has been sustained by strategic investments in sectors such as real estate, tourism, manufacturing, and the growing digital economy.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) has been pivotal, with China as a primary contributor, investing significantly in infrastructure projects, real estate developments, and manufacturing since 2005. As of 2022, Cambodia’s FDI inflows were approximately $3.58 billion, a testament to the country’s growing appeal as an investment destination (Statista, 2022). Other countries, such as South Korea and Japan, have also made substantial contributions, particularly in real estate, agriculture, and finance. This flow of FDI has created job opportunities, expanded Cambodia’s middle class, and fueled demand for urban infrastructure in rapidly developing cities like Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.

Additionally, Cambodia’s strategic location in Southeast Asia provides easy access to major sea lanes which provides easy access to essential trading routes, enhancing its appeal as a regional hub. In a way similar to Singapore, Cambodia is leveraging its geographical location to attract foreign investments and foster economic integration within ASEAN.

2. Real Estate Boom and Urbanization

Cambodia’s real estate sector is experiencing a period of rapid growth, particularly in its capital, Phnom Penh. High-rise buildings, luxury condominiums, and mixed-use developments are transforming the city’s skyline, indicating a thriving demand for both residential and commercial properties. Districts such as Toul Tum Poung and Boeung Keng Kang (BKK1) have emerged as vibrant hubs for new projects, drawing both local and international investors who recognize Phnom Penh’s potential as a rising urban center (CBRE Cambodia, 2023).

This growth is further supported by major infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and accessibility. Notable developments include new road networks, the construction of the Techo Takhmao International Airport, and extensive expressway systems. The Techo Takhmao International Airport, scheduled to open in phases beginning next year, is expected to initially accommodate 13 million passengers, with a projected expansion to 50 million by 2050 (The Sun, 2024).

At the center of this real estate expansion is Realestate.com.kh, Cambodia’s leading online real estate platform. By providing a trusted, accessible marketplace, Realestate.com.kh connects developers, agents, and buyers, facilitating property transactions on a national scale. As the exclusive marketing partner for many major projects, Realestate.com.kh is instrumental in driving awareness and building demand for new developments across Cambodia. This role not only aids in promoting high-quality projects but also strengthens investor confidence by ensuring a streamlined and transparent buying process.

Realestate.com.kh’s Connect Center has also been a game-changer, creating a space where agents and developers receive support, professional training, and access to the best tools for reaching potential buyers. This initiative is enhancing service standards across the industry, helping Cambodia’s real estate sector grow more connected, professional, and investor-friendly.

For buyers and investors, this real estate boom represents a promising opportunity. As property values in Phnom Penh continue to appreciate, developments are emerging that combine luxury living with affordability, attracting both high-end investors and young professionals. New projects are being introduced with attractive starting prices, making the dream of urban living more accessible. From affordable condos to upscale residences, the real estate market in Cambodia is evolving to cater to a diverse range of buyers, much like the early years of Singapore’s property development boom.

With these factors in play, Cambodia’s real estate market is poised for sustained growth. Investors looking for high returns are increasingly drawn to the country’s affordable property prices, strategic location, and rapidly expanding urban infrastructure. Realestate.com.kh’s expertise and influence in the market will likely continue to drive this sector forward, solidifying Cambodia’s place as a future economic and urban powerhouse in Southeast Asia.

3. Tourism and Cultural Appeal

Tourism remains a significant driver of Cambodia’s economy. In 2023, Cambodia welcomed approximately 5.43 million international tourists, marking a notable increase of 139.5% from the previous year’s 2.27 million arrivals, highlighting the resilience and importance of the sector (Tourism Cambodia, 2023). While the iconic Angkor Wat continues to attract global attention, Cambodia is diversifying its tourism portfolio with new developments in eco-tourism resorts, cultural heritage sites, and luxury hospitality projects. For instance, eco-tourism initiatives saw a 250% increase in visitors, with 341,621 domestic and foreign tourists recorded in the first four months of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021 (B Consulting Cambodia, 2022).

Singapore’s success as a tourism destination was also built on a mix of cultural heritage, innovative attractions, and exceptional hospitality. Cambodia is following suit, broadening its tourism appeal and creating sustainable tourism experiences that highlight its cultural and natural assets.

4. Emphasis on Digital Transformation

The digital economy is a priority for Cambodia’s government as it works toward a more connected future. Initiatives to promote digital literacy, expand internet access, and encourage technology startups are gaining momentum. Programs like the Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035 set ambitious targets for digital transformation, aiming to make Cambodia a leader in Southeast Asia’s digital landscape.

Singapore’s own transformation into a digital economy powerhouse was driven by government support for technology adoption, education, and infrastructure. Cambodia’s current path mirrors this with a focus on digital skills development, e-commerce growth, and tech innovation.

5. Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Free Trade

Cambodia has established several SEZs, which offer tax incentives and infrastructure support to attract foreign companies. These zones are part of Cambodia’s strategy to create a competitive manufacturing base, particularly in garment manufacturing, electronics, and automotive parts. With the signing of free trade agreements with China and South Korea, Cambodia is positioning itself as a gateway for goods and services into ASEAN markets.

Singapore’s economic success was largely based on its ability to leverage trade agreements and offer business-friendly environments for foreign companies. Cambodia is pursuing a similar strategy, striving to create a more open and efficient economy that attracts global investment.

6. Commitment to Education and Skill Development

Singapore’s rise was fueled by investments in education and a focus on skills development. Cambodia is beginning to make strides in this area as well. The government, with the support of international partners, is investing in education reforms aimed at improving literacy, digital skills, and vocational training. New universities and technical institutes are emerging to meet the needs of a growing workforce that is increasingly connected and tech-savvy.

While Cambodia’s education system still faces challenges, these efforts show a commitment to building a skilled workforce. As more young Cambodians enter the job market with relevant skills, the country’s economy will benefit from a talent pool that supports its growing industries.

7. Future Outlook

In the years ahead, Cambodia has the potential to emerge as a competitive player in Southeast Asia’s economy. With the right mix of government policies, foreign investments, and local initiatives, Cambodia could indeed chart a path similar to Singapore’s. By embracing modernization while preserving its unique culture, Cambodia has the opportunity to create its own success story and become a dynamic, prosperous nation.

Conclusion: Cambodia’s Journey Toward a Bright Future

While Cambodia may not yet be “the new Singapore,” its transformation is certainly capturing the world’s attention. With robust economic growth, a thriving real estate market, digital transformation, and a commitment to sustainable development, Cambodia is well on its way to becoming an influential player in the region. The next decade will be crucial, as Cambodia continues to build on its strengths and address its challenges.

As investors, citizens, and stakeholders, supporting Cambodia’s vision for the future is essential. Through strategic planning, innovation, and international partnerships, Cambodia can build a future that rivals the success of its Southeast Asian neighbors, including Singapore.

The post Emerging Giant: How Cambodia is Following in Singapore’s Footsteps first appeared on Estatedia | Economy & Real Estate Media in Cambodia.

The kingdom’s trade volume with the fellow RCEP members accounted for 61.6 percent of its total trade volume during the period, said the report from the General Department of Customs and Excise.

The country exported products worth 6.76 billion dollars to the RCEP countries, up 16.3 percent, while it recorded the import of goods worth 18.78 billion dollars from the RCEP countries, up 17.3 percent, the report added.

The Southeast Asian nation’s top five trading partners under the regional mega-trade pact are China, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan and Singapore, according to the report.

Effective in 2022, the RCEP comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries, including 10 ASEAN member states and their five trading partners, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

Cambodian Ministry of Commerce’s Secretary of State and spokesperson Penn Sovicheat said the RCEP is a catalyst for Cambodia’s trade growth and a magnet for foreign direct investments to the kingdom.

“Despite rising protectionism and weakening global demand, the RCEP has given a boost to regional trade cooperation, bringing great benefits to all member countries,” he told Xinhua.

“With tariff concessions under the RCEP agreement, our export to the fellow RCEP countries will undoubtedly continue to grow throughout this year and beyond,” he added.

Hoe Ee Khor, chief economist of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), said reduction in tariffs and non-tariff barriers has made it easier for Cambodian goods to access larger markets.

“Key Cambodian export products, such as garments and agricultural products, have benefited from improved market access and competitive pricing due to tariff reductions under the RCEP,” he wrote to Xinhua in an e-mail.

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