Cambodia Pursues Enhanced EU Cooperation on Arbitration to Boost Foreign Investment

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 4, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is seeking stronger cooperation with the European Union to promote commercial arbitration as an alternative mechanism for resolving business disputes, particularly among European investors operating in the Kingdom, officials said Thursday. The National Commercial Arbitration Centre (NCAC), led by President Arbitrator Hib Nareth West, held a meeting on Sept. 1 with EU Ambassador Igor Driesmans, his delegation, and a representative of the European Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (EuroCham). Officials said the NCAC presented its role as a non‑profit and independent institution dedicated to fair, transparent and efficient out‑of‑court dispute resolution. Discussions focused on opportunities for cooperation with the EU in promoting and raising awareness of arbitration, with particular attention to European investors in Cambodia. The NCAC said greater awareness of arbitration could help create a more favorable business environment by strengthening access to impartial mechanisms for resolving disputes outside the court system. Both sides exchanged experiences and explored potential areas of cooperation to further promote arbitration in Cambodia. Officials added that cooperation with the EU could also support the sustainability of NCAC operations and reinforce its mission of providing effective commercial dispute resolution services. Established as an independent institution, the NCAC allows parties to choose their arbitrators and procedures, while Cambodia’s participation in the New York Convention provides a framework for recognition and enforcement of foreign arbitral awards. EuroCham’s involvement in the meeting provided an avenue to strengthen awareness among the European business community. NCAC President HIB Nareth West expressed appreciation to the EU Ambassador for hosting the meeting and for the opportunity to discuss future cooperation. The Centre said it believes stronger EU–NCAC collaboration could become a significant partnership in advancing shared objectives, particularly in promoting fair, independent and efficient commercial dispute resolution in Cambodia.