Cambodia Pushes for Stronger Cross‑Border Trade and Investment Integration Under Mekong–Lancang Cooperation

KUNMING, China, June 19, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has called for deeper cross‑border trade, investment and logistics cooperation among Mekong–Lancang countries, stressing the importance of connectivity and facilitation in driving growth and integration, officials said Friday.

Suon Sophal, Deputy Secretary‑General of the Cambodian Investment Board under the Council for the Development of Cambodia, made the appeal during a Business and Investment Matching Event in Kunming, Yunnan Province.

The forum, themed “Enhancing Trade and Investment Facilitation Services to Promote Cross‑Border Economic Cooperation,” gathered officials, investors and business leaders from Cambodia, China, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and Myanmar.

Sophal welcomed the initiative and praised China, Mekong–Lancang members and partners for supporting regional projects. He said stronger cooperation on transport, logistics and investment facilitation would expand market access and strengthen supply‑chain resilience.

The call comes as Cambodia’s external trade continues to expand. Customs data show exports reached USD 14 billion in the first five months of 2026, up 19% year‑on‑year, while imports rose to USD 16 billion, an 18.9% increase. Bilateral trade with China surged nearly 23% to USD 9.38 billion, with Cambodian exports at USD 753 million and imports at USD 8.63 billion, leaving a deficit of about USD 7.8 billion.

Presentations at the Kunming forum highlighted opportunities in infrastructure, logistics and market connectivity. Around 300 participants attended, reflecting growing interest in expanding partnerships and investment opportunities within the Mekong–Lancang region. Officials said initiatives under the framework remain vital for integration, connectivity and new trade opportunities.