IBC Elects New Leadership at Phnom Penh AGM, Eyes AI and Post-Pandemic Growth

In Phnom Penh, the International Business Chamber (IBC) recently held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Rosewood Phnom Penh, marking a turning point for the foreign business community in Cambodia.

In the spotlight, Paul Clements, managing partner of Joint Asian Development Enterprises, was re-elected as chairman of the executive committee (ExCom), alongside prominent figures from the local economic landscape. Arnaud Darc, founder and CEO of Thalias Hospitality Group, steps into the role of vice-president.

This election, resulting from a unanimous vote by members, reflects the vitality of an organization that has brought together more than 200 international companies since its creation in 2015.

Among the other vice-presidents is Daniel Simon, managing director of Rosewood Phnom Penh, while James Roberts, partner advisory at KPMG Cambodia, takes the reins as treasurer.

Completing the ExCom are Currie Sun Min Lee (Bun & Associates), Jesse McCaul (Making It Easy), Lisa Sargent (Visa), and Parth Borkotoky (Cast Ventures).

"A diverse team, ready to tackle post-pandemic challenges and AI opportunities," highlights the IBC's official press release.

An Ambitious Agenda at the Heart of Economic Priorities

The AGM did not just ratify these appointments: it approved new statutes validated by the Cambodian Ministry of the Interior, strengthening the association's governance. Paul Clements presented the 2025 annual report, highlighting sustained membership growth despite regional geopolitical tensions.

James Roberts detailed the 2025 finances and the 2026 budget, projecting budgetary stability supported by major sponsors: EZECOM, KPMG Cambodia, and Wing Bank (platinum), JT International Cambodia (gold), as well as Chaktomuk Data Center, Harrods International Academy, Prudential Cambodia, Sok Im Holding, and Sok Siphana Sethalay (silver).

The event was enriched by forward-looking presentations. Dr. Sameer Jha from De Montfort University Cambodia shed light on "AI-boosted CEOs," a timely topic as Cambodia accelerates its digitalization—with GDP growth projected at 6.1% in 2026 according to the World Bank (October 2025 report).

These discussions illustrate the IBC's pivotal role in a country where foreign direct investments surged 28% in 2025 (data from the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce).

Events to Forge Connections

The IBC is already looking ahead with a packed program. Starting March 18, a networking event on supply chains; March 24, a visit to a cashew nut plantation and factory; April 1, a meeting with five economists ("Five Economists Walk into a Room"). At the heart of the agenda: April 4, "The Havana Night," a seated train dinner with rum and cigar cars, offering 10% off for tables of six. Registrations via official IBC forms.

In a Cambodia undergoing rapid transformation—a regional hub for tourism and agro-industry—the IBC embodies the resilience of international business.

Contact: admin@ibccambodia.com or Telegram @IBCCambodia