Cambodia, EU Co-Host ASEAN Workshop to Boost Agri-Food Workforce

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.17, 2025) — Cambodia and the European Union co-hosted a high-level ASEAN regional workshop this week aimed at strengthening skilled labor in the agri-food sector.

Labor Minister Heng Sour and EU Ambassador Igor Driesmans co-chaired the event, titled “Advancing Skills Development and Readiness for the Skilled Workforce 2025,” on Monday at the Fairfield by Marriott Hotel in Phnom Penh.

The two-day workshop, held Sept. 16–17, focused on aligning Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems with evolving labor market demands.

Organizers said a skilled workforce is critical to driving economic growth and job creation across Southeast Asia, especially in agriculture and food production.

In opening remarks to roughly 50 delegates from ASEAN member states, Heng called for urgent reforms in skills training to meet current and future market needs. He cited rapid digitalization and environmental challenges as key pressures facing the agri-food sector.

“The workshop reflects a shared regional commitment to cooperation and partnership,” Heng said, adding that closer alignment between training programs and job market realities is essential for inclusive growth.

Participants included representatives from government agencies, TVET institutions, the private sector and international organizations. All 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste were represented.