Cambodia, EU Deepen Investment Ties at 5th Public-Private Dialogue

Phnom Penh, November 4, 2026: Cambodia and the European Union have reaffirmed their strategic partnership at the 5th Cambodia-Europe Public and Private Sector Dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Sun Chanthol and EU Ambassador H.E. Igor Driesmans on Nov. 4, 2026.

CDC management, the Cambodian Investment Board, relevant ministries and institutions, EuroCham leadership and private sector representatives attended the talks.

H.E. Sun Chanthol outlined the Royal Government's achievements in improving the investment climate and trade facilitation, citing progress in logistics cooperation. He said Cambodia remains committed to attracting foreign direct investment despite global uncertainty, and pointed to the Sihanoukville deep-sea port expansion, with Phase 1 due for completion in mid-2027, expected to reduce maritime transport costs by around 30%.

H.E. Driesmans praised the dialogue as an effective platform for resolving challenges between the public sector and European businesses, and pledged support for CDC's planned Investment Roadshow across EU countries, saying its success would be measured by rising European FDI.


He noted the 25th anniversary of the EU's "Everything But Arms" scheme and its role in Cambodia's growth and poverty reduction, and looked ahead to preparing for a transition to GSP+ to boost exports and sustainable European investment.

Both sides reviewed progress from the previous four sessions and set out future action plans, with the European side praising Cambodia's responsiveness to concerns raised. The dialogue closed in a warm and fruitful atmosphere, reinforcing mutual trust and commitment to sustainable economic growth.

Source: Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC)


Reported by The Khmer Daily Network