U.S. Business Leaders Eye Expanded Investment in Cambodia as Trade Ties Deepen

PHNOM PENH, July 22, 2026 (KPT) – Senior executives from leading U.S. companies are exploring new investment opportunities in Cambodia as both governments push to strengthen bilateral trade and economic cooperation, the commerce ministry said Wednesday. The discussions took place July 21–22 during the annual U.S.–ASEAN Business Council (US‑ABC) mission to Cambodia, which brought representatives from more than a dozen American firms to meetings with Prime Minister Hun Manet, Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, Commerce Minister Cham Nimul and other senior officials. Commerce Minister Nimul reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to supporting businesses through trade policy reforms and improvements to the investment climate. She said the ministry is preparing for Cambodia’s graduation from Least Developed Country status while promoting competitiveness and sustainable growth. “The meeting reflects the continued strengthening of the partnership between Cambodia and the U.S. business community,” the ministry said in a statement. US‑ABC President and CEO Brian D. McFeeters welcomed Cambodia’s progress and pledged support for the government’s Pentagonal Strategy – Phase I, particularly in digital economy development and human capital. According to the U.S. Embassy, the two‑day mission focused on expanding trade, improving market access and creating new opportunities for American firms in sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, energy, financial services, digital technology and hospitality. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Aleks Zittle said the delegation demonstrates the growing commercial relationship between the two countries, adding that a stronger U.S. business presence would create jobs, develop local talent and further strengthen economic ties.