Cambodia Outlines Future Labor Market Demands: AI, Digital Skills, and Soft Skills Key for Next Decade

The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training has identified the skills that will be in high demand in Cambodia's labor market from the present until the next 10 years. These include technical skills, digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, data management, and soft skills, aimed at responding to technological evolution and structural changes in the labor market. Speaking at a press conference for the 2026 National Employment and Productivity Fair on September 1, 2026, Sun Messa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training, stated that the future labor market will face many changes due to the advent of new technologies. He noted that some jobs will transform, others will become more reliant on technology, and new jobs will emerge. Specifically, AI will contribute to enhancing human capabilities, making work completion faster and more efficient. According to the ministry's studies, the skills most in demand from the present until the next three years are at the intermediate and high levels, supporting existing businesses and industries. Key skills include computer program development, food processing, textiles, and other skills related to various industrial sectors. The demand for these skills is closely linked to investment in Cambodia, as approximately 50 percent of investments in 2024, 2025, and the first six months of 2026 are in the industrial sector, including garment and non-garment manufacturing, components, and electronics. Therefore, the demand for labor with appropriate skills for these sectors is expected to continue to rise. For the period of three to five years from now, significant changes are anticipated in line with technological advancements. Skills in demand will include artificial intelligence (AI), electronics, automation, data design and management, mechanical networks, metalworking, electricity, energy, data analysis, and occupational health and safety. For the period of five to 10 years from now, skills that will be in high demand are linked to technology and industries, as Cambodia moves towards a more advanced industrial level beyond current light industries. Expected in-demand skills include general management, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, laboratory technology, equipment technology, automation, green economy, and digital skills. In addition to technical skills, the spokesperson emphasized the importance of soft skills, which will become crucial for job seekers in the future. These include analytical ability, critical thinking, problem-solving, and flexibility in work. The ministry's presentation of these skill demands is intended to provide a foundation for youth, students, and job seekers to prepare and develop their knowledge and skills in line with the needs of the current and future labor market. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local