Cambodia Champions ASEAN Economic Integration at Dili Forum, Eyes Graduation from LDC Status by 2029

DILI, Timor-Leste (Aug 29, 2025)— Cambodia reaffirmed its commitment to regional economic integration and inclusive growth during the Dili International Business Forum 2025, where   Pich Rithi, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, delivered keynote remarks on “Cambodia’s Economic Integration with ASEAN: Experiences, Opportunities.”

Speaking on Friday, Aug. 29,  Pich Rithi outlined Cambodia’s strategic journey since joining ASEAN in 1999 and the World Trade Organization in 2004, emphasizing how multilateral frameworks have fueled trade expansion, foreign investment, and private sector competitiveness. These gains, he noted, are propelling Cambodia toward its national milestone of graduating from Least Developed Country status by 2029.

The forum, held under the presidency of Dr. Francisco da Costa Guterres, Minister of Interior of Timor-Leste, also featured senior officials from Indonesia and Timor-Leste’s trade and industry sectors.

Pich Rithi extended warm congratulations to Timor-Leste on its upcoming accession as ASEAN’s 11th member and reaffirmed Cambodia’s support for its integration at both regional and global levels.

He highlighted Cambodia’s active role in ASEAN frameworks such as AFTA, ASEAN+1 FTAs, and RCEP, as well as emerging initiatives in digital and green trade. These platforms, he said, offer expanded opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, and sustainable development.

Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul reaffirmed Cambodia’s readiness to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by 2029, during a workshop on August 5 validating a joint ADB–UNCTAD study.

Speaking at the event, Cham Nimul emphasized the government’s proactive efforts to design new trade policies that address the gradual loss of preferential market access and development flexibilities.

She highlighted the need for legal and institutional reforms, export diversification, and enhanced productive capacity to ensure a smooth transition. The Minister also reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to deepening regional and global economic integration, aligning with its long-term development goals. The workshop marked a key step in preparing stakeholders for post-LDC realities and sustaining inclusive growth.