Cambodia’s garment exports hit $15.7 bn as TAFTAC elects new leadership

PHNOM PENH, Jan 18, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s garment industry body TAFTAC has elected new leadership as the country’s textile and apparel exports surged to $15.7 billion in 2025, underscoring the sector’s resilience and central role in the economy.

The Textile, Apparel, Footwear and Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC) named He Enjia as president for the 17th term (2026–2028) during its annual meeting on Saturday at the Royal Group Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone. Labour Minister Heng Sour and industry representatives attended the event.

Enjia said the sector was “a pillar of Cambodia’s economy, a major source of employment, and a key bridge to global supply chains,” pledging to balance competitiveness with sustainability and national priorities.

He outlined commitments to strengthen TAFTAC’s role as a partner to government, promote stable labour relations, advance environmental compliance, and safeguard market access.

Cambodia’s garment, footwear and travel goods exports rose 15.8 percent from $13.5 billion in 2024, despite global economic uncertainties. The industry employs more than 2.1 million workers across 46,649 registered factories and enterprises, according to the Labour Ministry.

Minister Sour praised TAFTAC as a “trusted partner” of the government, saying strong leadership would help attract new investors, create jobs, and support Cambodia’s broader goal of diversifying its industrial base.

Founded 29 years ago, TAFTAC has served as the unified voice of investors, fostering dialogue between government, employers and workers while supporting sustainable export growth.