NBC Pushes Domestic Production Drive to Reduce Import Dependence Amid Global Uncertainty

By Deth Leng

PHNOM PENH, May 11, 2026 (KPT) — The National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) said Monday it is intensifying efforts to strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on imports, as global economic uncertainty continues to weigh on trade and growth prospects.

NBC announced it will convene its 13th Macroeconomic Conference in November under the theme “Promoting Domestic Production and Import Substitution.” Officials said local production has become an increasingly important driver of sustainable growth, particularly as external shocks disrupt global supply chains.

The Royal Government has introduced multiple initiatives to support local industry, including entrepreneurship training for micro, small and medium‑sized enterprises, programs for women entrepreneurs, reforms to business registration procedures and modernization of technological systems. Incentive policies have also been rolled out to encourage investment and improve manufacturing capacity.

NBC stressed that expanding domestic production could help replace imports for goods that can be manufactured locally using available raw materials, while generating employment opportunities and raising household incomes.

The push reflects Cambodia’s broader strategy to strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerability to external markets. Prime Minister Hun Manet has repeatedly emphasized the importance of building self‑reliance in key sectors, including agriculture, food processing and light manufacturing.

However, the central bank acknowledged challenges remain in scaling up production capacity, citing infrastructure gaps, limited access to finance and the need for stronger cooperation among government, businesses and development partners.

The November conference is expected to outline policy priorities for import substitution and highlight opportunities for public‑private partnerships to advance Cambodia’s Vision 2050 agenda.