Commerce Minister Highlights Critical Role of Young Entrepreneurs in Economic Growth


PHNOM PENH: Young, dynamic entrepreneurs and a robust private sector are pivotal in driving economic growth, as they form the backbone of Cambodia’s economy. This sentiment was echoed by H.E. Mrs. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, during the opening ceremony of Cambodia Entrepreneurs Day 2024 at the Institute of Technology of Cambodia. The event was themed ‘Investing in Young Entrepreneurs for Inclusive and Dynamic Economy’ and saw the attendance of notable figures including Oknha Pech Bolen, President of Young Entrepreneurs Association of Cambodia (YEAC), Oknha Kuoch Pheng, Representative of Global Entrepreneurship Network in Cambodia (GEN Cambodia), as well as senior officials, business owners, students, and international guests.



According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the forum aims to enhance communication networks and share valuable information and experiences among participants. The Minister of Commerce emphasized the importance of young entrepreneurs in fostering competitive and innovative businesses, developing specialized skills, and capitalizing on new business and investment opportunities, particularly in the realm of digital commercialization.



H.E. Cham Nimul urged investors, young entrepreneurs, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to collaborate in addressing challenges, finding solutions, and advancing their skills and expertise by keeping pace with rapid advancements in science, technology, and the socio-economic landscape. The Minister highlighted the necessity of proactive cooperation in seizing potential opportunities to boost economic and trade growth and improve social well-being.



She also commended YEAC and GEN Cambodia for their efforts in organizing the event and acknowledged YEAC’s achievements over the past fifteen years, noting their significant role in promoting national economic development.

Cambodia’s Cashew Nut Exports Surge to $1.15 Billion in 2024


PHNOM PENH: Cambodia generated approximately $1.15 billion from cashew nut exports in 2024, marking a 31 percent increase compared to the previous year, as the nation capitalizes on growing demand in key international markets.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the country exported over 800,000 tonnes of cashew nuts, with Vietnam being the primary destination. Uon Siloth, President of the Cambodian Cashew Association, reported that Cambodia’s total cashew nut production reached about 850,000 tonnes this year, a 26 percent increase from 2023. The Kingdom currently hosts 50 cashew nut processing enterprises, including six medium-sized factories.

Four varieties of cashew nuts-M-23, M-10, IM-4, and H-09-have been registered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. In 2023, Cambodia earned $837 million from exporting 65,600 tonnes of cashew nuts, while in 2022, the country exported approximately 670,000 tonnes worth $1.077 billion.

Vietnam, Japan, and China continue to be the main markets fo
r Cambodia’s cashew nuts. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ report indicates that cashew plantations in Cambodia span around 580,117 hectares in 2024. Kampong Thom province holds the largest cultivation area with about 147,700 hectares, followed by Kratie province with 102,500 hectares, and Rattanakiri province with 97,200 hectares.