Cambodia seeks more Japanese investment, pushes for resumption of direct flights

TOKYO, June 9, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has stepped up efforts to attract more Japanese investment while urging the resumption of direct flights between the two countries to strengthen economic ties, officials said Tuesday.

Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), led a delegation in talks with Norihiko Ishiguro, Chairman and CEO of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), in Tokyo.

The meeting, coordinated by JETRO Phnom Penh, was attended by Ambassador Chum Sounry, senior CDC and Commerce Ministry officials, and private‑sector representatives.

Discussions focused on deepening investment cooperation, improving the business environment and creating new opportunities for Japanese corporations and SMEs. A key proposal was the establishment of a Business Co‑Creation Team to enhance the investment climate and identify new projects.

Chanthol also called for the resumption of direct air services between Cambodia and Japan, describing improved connectivity as vital for trade, tourism and investment. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen collaboration and address concerns raised by Japanese investors, pledging coordinated efforts and policy support from Phnom Penh.

Cambodia’s bilateral trade with Japan reached $2.53 billion in 2025, up 17 percent year‑on‑year, according to data from Ministry of Commerce. Cambodian exports were valued at $1.57 billion, while imports from Japan climbed to $956 million, leaving a surplus of about $620 million in Cambodia’s favour.

Chanthol is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Cambodia Investment Forum 2026 in Osaka on June 12, which is expected to draw 30–50 Japanese companies for discussions on trade, investment and industrial cooperation.