Analyst Urges Faster Reforms to Bolster Cambodia’s National Resilience

PHNOM PENH, May 28, 2026 (KPT) — A Cambodian analyst has urged the government to accelerate reforms and strengthen national resilience amid mounting geopolitical uncertainty and global economic instability.

Dr. Chey Tech, a geopolitical and economic researcher, said the country can no longer rely on slow‑paced development or become complacent in times of peace, stressing Cambodia must “run rather than walk” in improving competitiveness, governance and institutional capacity.

Speaking on the shifting global environment shaped by conflicts and regional tensions, he said smaller states must modernize continuously to safeguard long‑term national interests. He emphasized adapting to technological change, upgrading human resources and enhancing both public and private sector capacity.

The comments come as Cambodia advances broad civil service reforms aimed at streamlining ministries, improving efficiency and modernizing public administration under Prime Minister Hun Manet’s long‑term agenda.

At the same time, defence spending is set to rise 11.4 percent in 2027 to strengthen military capabilities and modernization efforts. Structural economic reforms are also being pursued to reinforce resilience against external shocks.

Despite global pressures, Cambodia’s economy grew 5.3 percent in 2025, supported by manufacturing, trade and rising foreign investment, with approved foreign direct investment reaching US$10 billion last year.