Cambodia Deepens Reform Drive with Harvard Economist Hausmann

PHNOM PENH, Aug 6, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia is intensifying its economic reform push through continued engagement with Harvard economist Ricardo Hausmann, as the government seeks to accelerate diversification, attract higher‑quality investment and sharpen competitiveness amid shifting global dynamics, officials said Wednesday. Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, who also serves as First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), met Hausmann – founder of the Growth Lab and professor at the Harvard Kennedy School – to discuss the kingdom’s long‑term development strategy. Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Cambodian Investment Board, and senior CDC officials also attended. Talks centred on three priorities: assessing global economic and geopolitical trends, identifying ways to speed up diversification, and advancing structural reforms to improve the investment and trade climate. Both sides exchanged views on building a more resilient and sustainable economy by strengthening growth drivers while continuing reforms to attract foreign direct investment and facilitate trade. The meeting also examined the impact of shifting global dynamics and explored strategies to position Cambodia to seize emerging opportunities and boost competitiveness in regional and global markets. The dialogue followed Sun Chanthol’s talks with Hausmann at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Jan 22, 2026. Officials said the continued engagement reflects Cambodia’s bid to draw on internationally recognised expertise as it pursues structural reforms and innovation‑driven growth.