Cambodia’s Digital Trade Forum Showcases Local Products to Global Markets to Foster GDP Growth

Cambodia is pushing to harness digital trade as a major driver of economic growth. Officials pledged reforms and businesses showcased local innovations at the country’s second Digital Trade Forum and Online Expo, which was held September 12–13, 2025, at Koh Pich City Hall.

Held under the theme, “Advancing Cambodia’s Future Through Digital Trade”, the event brought together ministers and government representatives, development partners, chambers of commerce, and foreign diplomats, to explore the potential of Cambodia’s digital trade industry. 

Cambodia’s E-Commerce Policy Direction

In remarks delivered during the forum’s opening ceremony, H.E. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce, said digital trade would be critical to achieving the government’s Pentagonal Strategy Phase I, which sets the goal of reaching upper-middle-income status by 2030, and high-income status by 2050. 

“Developing infrastructure, building digital skills, and engaging the private sector are essential to strengthen trust in Cambodia’s digital system,” said H.E. Cham Nimul.

H.E. Chea Vandeth, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, was another high-level official who joined the two-day event, alongside senior representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

ADB’s Digital Development Specialist, Carolyn Flory, described Cambodian SMEs as the backbone of the economy and drew attention to how they still face barriers ranging from high transaction costs to limited visibility abroad. 

“Digitalisation can streamline trade documentation, improve logistics, and reduce compliance costs,” Flory noted, adding that trustmark verification and cybersecurity could improve Cambodia’s reputation among overseas partners, while opening opportunities for women-led enterprises.

Shakeel Ahmad, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, shared findings from research conducted with the Ministry of Economy and Finance, revealing that the digital economy’s contribution to the Cambodian GDP doubled between 2010 and 2022, with a major boost seen during the pandemic.
“Digital trade is one of the critical means to accelerate Cambodia’s competitiveness, diversification, and secure a smooth graduation from LDC status by 2029,” Ahmad said.

However, despite this growing contribution to growth, he also noted that only 3 per cent of jobs in the country have been found to be linked to the sector, signalling a major gap that needs to be addressed. 

Showcasing Cambodian SMEs

In the Expo section of the event, several Cambodian businesses had booths showcasing their products and services, demonstrating how homegrown enterprises are leveraging digital channels to expand.

Speaking with B2B Cambodia, Chhoun Sochenda, Sales Manager at Khmer Organic Cooperative—a company that sells vegetables and spices certified by USDA and Canada Organic—shared that there is a rising demand for local produce, particularly due to the current period of border tensions with Thailand. Khmer Organic Cooperative’s products are already available in local supermarkets like Lucky and AEON, and the company is now seeking to expand its market reach through digital platforms.

T-O Group, a local technology firm operating for two decades, also highlighted its point-of-sale (POS) software for retailers and restaurants. Tep Kalyan, Head of Operations, told B2B Cambodia that the system’s strength lies in meeting regulatory requirements while adapting to local needs, including Khmer-language support and VAT-inclusive invoicing.

Penhhartey Pen, founded by entrepreneur Pen Poly in 2017, promoted its handmade natural teas and soaps. “Our mission is to provide natural, Cambodian-made products that reflect both tradition and quality,” Poly said, with hopes of reaching new markets abroad.

Digital Platforming and The Challenges Ahead

The Ministry of Commerce highlighted its CambodiaTrade.com platform, designed to connect local producers with international buyers. Other domestic e-commerce operators—including Wingmall, SmileShop, Vtenh, and Grab—were also noted as expanding Cambodia’s mobile-first market.

But challenges still remain. Shakeel Ahmad from UNDP pointed out that high costs, lacking broadband access, and low digital literacy still remain as major barriers for many rural communities, women, and youth.

“Inclusive digital trade requires not just coverage but also affordability, accessibility, and skills development,” he stressed.