Cambodia launches MSME strategy as Manet urges simpler business procedures
Planned measures include a one-stop registration and licensing centre and a pilot for bundled applications through the CamDX platform.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged public officials to simplify procedures for smaller businesses at the 22 October launch of the National Strategy for the Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises 2026–2030.
Manet said government institutions should take a more supportive approach to businesses, rather than concentrating solely on detecting violations and imposing fines or other penalties. He called for better public services and fewer complicated administrative requirements.
The government is preparing measures to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including a coordination unit offering a single service point for business registration and licence applications, he said.
A planned pilot would enable businesses to submit registration, licence and other permit applications together through CamDX, using simplified procedures. Draft legal documents and sub-decrees to assist the sector are also being prepared.
Cambodia’s 2022 Economic Census recorded approximately 750,000 MSMEs employing around three million people, including approximately 1.8 million women. Citing the census, Manet said these businesses accounted for around 63 per cent of GDP and more than 70 per cent of employment outside agriculture.
Manet described smaller businesses as government partners in generating jobs, raising household incomes and supporting domestic production. He said implementing the strategy required cooperation across institutions and reaffirmed government support for private businesses, production and investment.
