Cambodia’s Special Economic Zones Post Strong Export Growth in Early 2026

PHNOM PENH, May 22, 2026 (KPT) — Two of Cambodia’s largest special economic zones have reported robust growth in exports and employment in the first four months of 2026, underscoring investor confidence and the country’s industrial resilience despite regional and global challenges.

Royal Group Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone (RGPPSEZ) and Royal Group Kandal Special Economic Zone (RGKSEZ) employed 58,532 workers as of April, up 15.3 percent from 50,746 a year earlier, their operator said Friday. The expansion reflects continued investment inflows and the growing scale of enterprises operating within the zones.

Exports from January to April reached US$809.02 million, compared with US$579.88 million in the same period of 2025 — a surge of nearly 40 percent. The performance highlights the competitiveness of manufacturers in garments, footwear, electronics and other industries, even as global demand remains uncertain.

Kith Meng, chairman of Royal Group of Companies and head of RGPPSEZ, said the growth “reflects the strong confidence of investors in Cambodia’s economic future and the dedication of all stakeholders working together to strengthen the country’s industrial ecosystem.” He added that Royal Group remains committed to supporting sustainable investment, job creation and long‑term development.

Officials noted that the Phnom Penh zone has also contributed to government pro‑business policies and infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving the investment climate.

The upbeat figures come as Cambodia faces external risks from border tensions and global fuel price volatility, with the government stressing that diversification and industrial upgrading will be key to sustaining growth.