Cambodia pushes industrial resilience with innovation, domestic production as global supply chains face disruption

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 12, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is reinforcing its economic resilience through industrial innovation and stronger domestic production as global uncertainties weigh on supply chains, officials said Thursday.

At a national workshop in the National Assembly, Industry Minister Hem Vanndy outlined strategies to strengthen Cambodia’s industrial base and reduce external vulnerabilities amid geopolitical tensions and energy disruptions.

The session, presided over by Assembly President Khuon Sudary, brought together lawmakers and senior officials including Commerce Minister Cham Nimul and Telecommunications Minister Chea Vandeth.

Vanndy said Cambodia’s ability to adapt during challenging periods was key to safeguarding stability, noting that the country continues to expand markets, strengthen domestic manufacturing and promote innovation when global conditions become uncertain.

“Economic strength is inseparable from national security,” he told participants, stressing the need to diversify markets, enhance production capacity and build a more self-reliant economy.

By the end of 2025, Cambodia counted 3,083 large factories employing more than 1.26 million workers, with women making up over 71 percent of the workforce. Despite global energy disruptions, Vanndy said no factories had suspended operations due to shortages, underscoring resilience in production.

Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) were also highlighted as a backbone of the economy. Cambodia has about 750,000 MSMEs employing nearly three million workers, with millions more active in the informal sector. Vanndy called for stronger support to these enterprises, saying they play a critical role in sustaining livelihoods and reinforcing national resilience.

The minister urged unity in economic development, emphasizing that productivity, innovation and solidarity remain central to Cambodia’s strategy. “Resilience is not only about surviving shocks but about building strength for the future,” he said.