Chinese Firm Pledges Support for Garment Supply Chain Expansion

PHNOM PENH, April 22, 2026 (KPT) — A visiting Chinese industry delegation has pledged to support the development of upstream sectors in the garment industry, focusing on printing, dyeing and textiles, in a move aimed at strengthening manufacturing supply chains, officials said Wednesday.

The commitment was made during talks between Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Cambodian Investment Board, and Li Lingshen, Vice President of the China National Textile and Apparel Council.

The delegation included representatives from leading textile and dyeing firms in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Guangdong provinces.

Vuthy outlined the investment climate and highlighted the growth of Chinese investment and bilateral trade.

He said the government was seeking to attract more upstream industries to support garments, footwear and travel goods, with the aim of reinforcing domestic supply chains.

He also raised concerns over pollution risks linked to dyeing and washing, noting that designated industrial zones were under consideration to better manage environmental impacts.

Li said Chinese companies were increasingly seeking overseas opportunities and viewed the country as a favorable destination, citing stability and investment incentives.

He acknowledged environmental challenges but stressed that Chinese firms had developed technologies and experience to mitigate risks.

The garment sector remains a cornerstone of the economy, employing hundreds of thousands of workers and generating $15.5 billion in exports in 2025, with shipments worth $3.8 billion in the first quarter of 2026.

The latest pledge from Chinese industry is viewed as a step toward diversifying supply chains and enhancing competitiveness.