(Tokyo): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called for the establishment of a Cambodia–Japan Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a concept he jointly initiated with the Japanese leadership to attract increased investment—particularly from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—into Cambodia.

The premier spoke on Thursday (May 29) during Cambodia-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo, Japan. The forum was co-organised by the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the AEM-METI Economic and Industrial Cooperation Committee (AMEICC), and Mizuho Bank. The event attracted nearly 300 investors representing 227 Japanese companies.

According to Samdech Thipadei, the proposed Cambodia–Japan SEZ would function as an integrated investment ecosystem, designed to streamline administrative processes, address investor concerns, and enhance long-term confidence and trust among Japanese businesses.

Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed optimism that, with joint efforts from both governments and stakeholders, the SEZ could become a reality within the next three years.

“I hope that Japanese companies and economic agencies will work together to realise this goal. Hopefully, in three years’ time, this initiative will take shape,” the premier underscored.

The prime minister also highlighted the growing economic and trade cooperation between Cambodia and Japan. In 2024 alone, the bilateral trade volume exceeded USD 2 billion.

He further encouraged Japanese investors to explore opportunities in Cambodia, citing the Kingdom’s political stability, sustained economic growth, investor-friendly policies, favourable investment law, dynamic and youthful labour force, tax incentives, and expanding network of free trade agreements.
=FRESH NEWS