Nearly 500,000 Informal Economy Registrations Filed as Cambodia Pushes Businesses into Formal Sector

PHNOM PENH, Sept. 3, 2026 (KPT) — Nearly half a million applications have been submitted to register informal economic activities and micro‑enterprises, as the Cambodian government intensifies efforts to bring self‑employed workers and small businesses into the formal economy, officials said Thursday. Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Hem Vanndy said that as of August 28, 2026, a total of 496,805 applications had been received under the informal economy registration initiative. More than 480,000 came from self‑employed people, while 7,445 workers and employees and 3,235 micro‑enterprises also applied. Vanndy said the increase showed growing participation but noted that many informal operators still lack awareness of the benefits of registration. He called for continued outreach campaigns to encourage more workers and businesses to enter the formal system. The scheme covers those earning less than $62,500 annually, including street vendors, small businesses and occasional workers. Applicants can register via the Cam‑IE mobile app or through nine partner banks. Registered businesses receive official recognition and a Business Status Certificate, which officials say strengthens credibility with partners and financial institutions. The drive is part of a broader strategy to gradually integrate informal workers and businesses into the formal economy, expanding access to social protection, financial services and government support.