EuroCham Cambodia: Fostering a Fairer Business Environment in FMCG Sector

Ahead of elections in September, we are speaking with leadership from our 12 Sectoral Committees to learn a bit more about the positions. First up is Sokanha Sin, Vice-Chairperson of the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Committee and Partner at Bun & Associates. She explained why she chose to join the FMCG Committee, what inspired her to run for a leadership role, and what has been most fulfilling over her two-year tenure. A focus on cross-border mergers and acquisitions You have extensive experience in corporate law, with a focus on cross-border mergers and acquisitions. What inspired you to join EuroCham’s Fast Moving Consumer Goods Committee as Vice-Chairperson? Sokanha: Throughout my legal career, I have worked with many FMCG companies entering or expanding in Cambodia. I often found myself having the same conversation with business leaders—they understood the commercial opportunities, but they also wanted greater clarity on regulations and stronger dialogue with policymakers. That experience made me realise that sustainable growth requires more than compliance and investment. It requires trust and communication between the private and public sectors. When the opportunity came to join the FMCG Committee, I saw it as a chance to contribute beyond my legal practice. I wanted to help bridge that gap by bringing practical business concerns to the table and encouraging constructive dialogue with relevant stakeholders. For me, the FMCG Committee was never only about the sector itself. It was about helping create a business environment where companies can grow responsibly, consumers are protected, and Cambodia can continue developing in a sustainable way. A lot has happened in Cambodia’s FMCG sector during your two-year term as Vice-Chairperson of the committee. What do you feel were the most meaningful developments while you were one of the leaders of the committee? Were there any achievements of which you are particularly proud? Sokanha: One of the things I am most proud of is not a single event or initiative, but the progress we made in bringing important industry issues into meaningful discussions. As a lawyer, I have always believed that sustainable businesses thrive when there is fair competition and a level playing field. During my time on the Committee, I had the opportunity to work alongside fellow Committee members and FMCG companies to raise awareness and advocate for fair competition, illicit trade, and consumer protection. I still remember several discussions where businesses openly shared the challenges they faced and government representatives took the time to listen and engage. Seeing those conversations evolve into constructive dialogue was incredibly encouraging. For me, the most meaningful achievement was not whether every issue was solved immediately, but the fact that both the private sector and government were willing to come together to discuss them. That spirit of cooperation demonstrated that progress is possible when stakeholders share the same goal of building a stronger and more sustainable business environment. Personally, it was rewarding to contribute my legal and practical experience to support those advocacy efforts and work alongside people who genuinely care about the future of the industry and the country. Interested in running for a leadership role What advice would you give to a member of the European business community that is interested in running for a leadership role in one of EuroCham’s Sectoral Committees? Is there anything you wish you had known before you took the position? Sokanha: I would say this: if you have ever thought, “I wish I could do something to improve the business environment,” then this is your opportunity. Before joining the Committee, I expected to contribute my professional expertise. What surprised me was how much impact can be created when people with different backgrounds come together with a common purpose. Some members contribute through advocacy. Others contribute by sharing industry knowledge, connecting stakeholders, or helping identify practical solutions to business challenges. Every contribution matters. Looking back, some of my most memorable moments were not at formal meetings but during conversations with fellow Committee members, business leaders, and the EuroCham team. Those discussions often sparked new ideas and led to meaningful collaboration. For anyone who wants to make a positive contribution to the business community and Cambodia’s development, I would strongly encourage you to stand for election. It requires commitment, but it also gives you a unique opportunity to help shape discussions, support change, and work alongside an inspiring community of people who want to make a difference. Interested in running for a Committee leadership position? Get all the details and apply here.