Investments: Cambodia attracts $608 million in August 2025

In August, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) approved 51 qualified investment projects (QIPs), representing a cumulative capital of $608 million and the prospect of nearly 270,000 jobs for Cambodians.

Phnom Penh. Photo CG

Industry ranks first among beneficiary sectors, accounting for more than half of the total amount, or USD 313 million. It is followed by infrastructure (USD 273 million), agriculture and agribusiness (USD 14 million) and finally tourism (USD 8 million).

Capital dominated by local investors

A notable feature is that Cambodian investors rank first, accounting for 45.5% of financial contributions. China follows closely behind with 43.6%, confirming its position as a key partner. Singapore (5.1%), the United Kingdom (2.6%), the Cayman Islands (1.7%), the British Virgin Islands (0.9%) and Japan (0.7%) complete the picture.

Projects outside special economic zones

Of the 51 approved QIPs, 35 are located outside special economic zones (SEZs). These include a $27 million fruit processing project in Battambang and an $8.7 million rubber processing plant in Thbong Khmum province.

Dynamism of SEZs

The remaining 16 projects are concentrated in the Svay Rieng SEZs, mainly in industry and tourism. A USD17 million investment is earmarked for metal production, while a 100-room four-star hotel will be built for nearly USD8 million.

At the same time, an USD 11 million project in Preah Sihanouk will improve the electricity supply and install a water treatment plant, meeting the growing needs of a province undergoing rapid maritime and industrial development.

A diversification strategy

This new cycle of investment illustrates a twofold trend: the rise of domestic capital and Cambodia's desire to diversify its economy beyond the textile industry alone. Agribusiness, rubber processing and high-end tourism are enriching a productive fabric in search of added value and sustainability.

Outlook and employment

With nearly 270,000 jobs expected to be created, the CDC is demonstrating its ambition to combine financial attractiveness with social benefits. This dynamic should support both the industrialisation of the provinces and the upskilling of the local workforce.

By approving these USD 608 million in investments in one month, Cambodia is confirming its position as a regional economic hub and banking on growth fuelled as much by its own entrepreneurs as by its Asian and foreign partners.