Commerce Minister Urges Private Sector to Boost Competitiveness Ahead of Post-LDC Transition

PHNOM PENH, Jan 29, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Commerce Minister Cham Nimul has called on the private sector to strengthen its readiness and competitiveness as the country prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2029.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) Annual General Assembly, held at the Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Center, on Jan. 28, Nimul praised the chamber’s cooperation and its role in driving trade and economic growth.

She highlighted increased investment, diversification of imports and exports, and deeper participation in regional and global value chains as key factors behind Cambodia’s progress.

The minister stressed that the government continues to improve the business environment and diversify export markets under the approach of “strengthening existing markets and expanding new ones.”

Nimul noted that reforms in 2025 included upgraded free trade agreements, active public-private dialogue, modernization of public services, and stronger intellectual property protection.

Looking ahead, she outlined a vision for a dynamic, resilient and competitive trade sector, focusing on institutional transformation, domestic trade development and international expansion.

She urged large enterprises to boost productivity, overseas CCC offices to attract foreign investment, and provincial chambers to support small traders and farmers. The minister also encouraged businesses to promote Cambodian products at home and abroad to prepare for the post-LDC era.