Article by Hin Pisei courtesy of The Phnom Penh Post
23.06.2025
Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are playing an increasingly important role in boosting Cambodia’s exports to international markets. Over the past three years, exports from SEZs across the country have accounted for approximately one-fourth of Cambodia’s total export value.
During a July 19 workshop, on “Promoting Green Investments in Special Economic Zones in Cambodia”, Sar Sinera, deputy secretary-general of the Cambodian Investment Board (CIB) under the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), explained that the event aimed to introduce the concept of the Eco-Industrial Park (EIP) framework to participants. It also served as a platform to discuss policies and key regulations that promote green investment within Cambodia’s SEZs.
He noted that SEZs play a crucial role in the Kingdom’s economic development by attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and boosting the country’s exports.
Sinera added that Cambodia has strong potential to attract investment across all sectors. In particular, the Kingdom’s investment laws offer numerous incentives and benefits to investors. Moreover, there are sub-decrees in place that support the implementation of laws that encourage green investment. This includes investment in green energy, technologies that help mitigate and adapt to climate change, environmental protection and conservation, biodiversity preservation and circular economy initiatives.
“Cambodia’s Special Economic Zones play a vital role in economic development by attracting foreign direct investment, promoting industrial growth and economic diversification, generating employment and integrating Cambodia into global value chains,” he said.
He expressed optimism that all stakeholders would continue to collaborate to ensure that Cambodia’s SEZs can achieve their full potential as a driver of sustainable, green and environmentally friendly economic growth.
According to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, as of the end of 2024, there were 30 operational SEZs across Cambodia.
The number increased from 21 in 2020 to 23 in 2021, 25 in 2022 and 26 in 2023. In 2024, 4 new SEZs began operations.
The 30 SEZs are located in 12 provinces and the capital: 9 in Svay Rieng, 5 in Preah Sihanouk, 3 each in Banteay Meanchey, Koh Kong, and Kandal, and 1 each in Phnom Penh, Pursat, Kratie, Kampot, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang and Kampong Cham.
Sam Soknoeun, chairman of SAM SN Group, told The Post that SEZs play a key role in attracting and encouraging more diverse international investors to set up operations in Cambodia.
He said SEZs offer well-planned infrastructure such as roads, electricity and one-stop service offices, which help streamline processes and meet the needs of factory owners and businesses.
“All business activities in SEZs are convenient for investors, from importing raw materials for manufacturing and processing, to exporting finished products to international markets,” he explained.
Regarding the types of products currently being exported from SEZs, Soknoeun said the majority are textile and garment products, but in the future, the product mix may shift. Cambodia is now starting to attract larger-scale industries, including manufacturers of electronic components, machinery and advanced technology.
