BGA Cambodia Adviser Siriwat Chhem wrote an update to clients on Cambodia’s digital economy.

Context

  • Cambodia is emerging as a key player in Southeast Asia’s digital transformation, offering significant opportunities for global technology firms to invest and expand. With 60 percent of the population under 30 years old, the young and tech-savvy nation is digitalizing rapidly across sectors such as e-commerce, fintech and cloud services.
  • The strategic location of Cambodia within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) grants access to a regional market of more than 660 million consumers, enhancing its appeal as a hub for technology-driven solutions and services. The ASEAN Digital Integration Framework promotes seamless cross-border trade, digital payments and logistics, making Cambodia an ideal gateway for broader regional operations.

Significance

  • The Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework (2021-2035) is driving Cambodia’s digital ecosystem aimed at driving innovation and economic growth. The policy framework enhances Cambodia’s business landscape by fostering a skilled workforce, ensuring cybersecurity and promoting innovation, in turn driving socioeconomic development and international competitiveness. This strategic focus positions Cambodia as an attractive destination for foreign investment and technological advancements, further integrating it into the global digital economy.
  • The Council for the Development of Cambodia launched the Cambodia Investment Project Management System in November 2024, to enhance investment efficiency and transparency. This digital platform allows investors to submit applications anytime, reducing processing delays and ensuring real-time tracking of their requests. The system will integrate with key ministries to streamline information sharing and improve the investment environment for local and foreign investors.

Implications

  • Cambodia offers global technology firms a chance to shape a growing market and establish long-term success, with a rising middle class driving demand for e-commerce, fintech and cloud services. Smartphone penetration and digital payments are fueling double-digit growth in online retail; over 70 percent of the population remains unbanked, creating opportunities for innovative financial services; and the digital transformation will rely heavily on cloud solutions. This environment presents a strategic opportunity for technology firms to lead in market development, capitalize on unmet needs and secure a competitive edge in Southeast Asia.
  • Global technology firms investing in Cambodia today will benefit from first-mover advantages in an untapped, high-growth market, supported by strong government backing, rising consumer demand and cost-efficient entry. Cambodia’s digital economy is ripe for investment, offering an ideal environment for innovation and expansion. By entering the market now, global technology companies can lead in shaping Cambodia’s digital transformation and secure a strategic position in ASEAN. This proactive investment approach will enable firms to influence regulatory frameworks, establish brand loyalty and capture significant market share early on.

We will continue to keep you updated on developments in Cambodia as they occur. If you have any comments or questions, please contact Cambodia Adviser Siriwat Chhem at schhem@bowergroupasia.com.

Best regards,

BGA Cambodia Team

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Advisor

Siriwat is an advisor, a consultant and a former think tank director with expertise in digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) and cyberdiplomacy. His professional background includes board positions, executive roles, advisory work and consulting engagements across government, industry and academia. He helps BGA clients navigate the complex global cyberspace to harness digital technology innovation for sustainable development. Prior to joining BGA, Siriwat was founding director of the Asian Vision Institute Center for Inclusive Digital Economy, where he led a team of 50 members, directed the publication of two books and 80 policy papers and initiated national research projects and capacity-building ... Read More