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In the News
Malaysia plans to strengthen supply chains as 2025 ASEAN Chair
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Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (right) receiving the ceremonial gavel from Laos’ Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at the 44th and 45th Asean Summits on Oct 11. Photo courtesy of AFP
Malaysia takes aim at supply chains, semiconductor manufacturing, and social equity as it settles into its role as 2025 ASEAN Chair.

Taking over the, Malaysia plans to position the region as a dynamic hub for industry, investment and trade. Fortifying global supply chains will be a key aspect of the nation’s strategies during its tenure leading the association of nations.

Malaysia also plans to address economic imbalances within the region: 74% of investments in ASEAN in 2022 were in services, with only 22% manufacturing. During its chairmanship, the nation’s leaders plan to boost EV and semiconductor production as well as building up the digital economy. Malaysia's own National Semiconductor Strategy aims to be a key aspect of this targeted economic development. 

At the fifth World Association Presidents’ Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Zafrul Abdul Aziz also emphasised that Malaysia’s chairmanship of the regional bloc will prioritise social equity, financial accessibility, and inclusive participation in the ASEAN economic community. 


 
EuroCham Bangladesh hailed as milestone for EU business cooperation in the country
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Chamber members and business leaders celebrate EuroCham Bangladesh's launch at the Grand Ballroom of Radisson Blu Water Garden, Dhaka. Photo courtesy of EuroCham Bangladesh. 
The European Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh launches with industry experts and government stakeholders optimistic on its potential. 

On Tuesday, Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh to create a robust partnership with the newly launched European Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (EuroCham).

Considered a milestone in EU-Bangladesh business relations, EuroCham will serve to facilitate dialogue between the business community and key government agencies and officials such as BIDA, the Ministry of Commerce and the National Board of Revenue.

Along with improving ease-of-doing business for European firms in Bangladesh, the Chamber will also advise companies on the impact of upcoming EU regulation on supply chains and will support Bangladesh’s green and digital transformation. The group will form part of the European Business Organisations (EBO) Worldwide Network that represents European business interests in over 54 key global markets


 
Cambodia's first wind farm set to launch in 2027
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Turbines at a wind farm in Weifang in eastern China's Shandong province on March 22, 2024. Photo courtesy of AP
Cambodia's first large-scale wind farm gains momentum and aims support national goals of clean energy transformation. 

Located in Mondulkiri province, Cambodia is currently developing a 150-megawatt (MW) wind farm to achieve the nation's ambitious clean energy goals. , Singapore-based firm Leader Energy signed an Implementation Agreement with the Ministry of Mines and Energy for the development of the project. Under the agreement, Leader Energy would also be responsible for the management of the wind farm for 25-years.

Speaking with media on December 2, Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak said that the project is in line with the nation's energy transformation goals for the coming years. 

“This agreement is another project among many to push Cambodia to have at least 70 percent clean energy by 2030. Cambodia’s big green energy should be at the core of international investments into our country, and it shows our resolve to fight climate change.”


 
Vietnam looks to e-bikes to combat air pollution
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Electric motorbikes are gaining ground in Vietnam as a solution for air pollution. Photo courtesy of AFP
Though some residents remain hesitant, government and business leaders see EVs as a path to reducing air pollution.

According to the World Bank, 30% of Hanoi’s smog is caused by internal combustion engines.  the government is ramping up its efforts to electrify the personal transportation sector. Officials order that 25% of all two-wheeled vehicles across the country must be electric by 2030 in order to curb the rising rates of pollution.

Many citizens are reluctant to make the switch, however, citing the convenience of petrol motorbikes, the lack of charging stations and fears around potential dangers of the batteries that power e-bikes. Despite this hesitancy, some big firms are investing in the sector, with Vingroup and Selex both setting up operations using electric two-wheelers. 


 
Interview of the Week
"What I like about Cambodia is, for the private sector, it's a country that is a fantastic playground for entrepreneurship."
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Senior Communications Officer Stew Post with Sevea Director Frantz Vaganay at Sevea offices on Koh Pich, Phnom Penh
Environmental and social responsibility is getting more attention than ever – from both the public and private sectors – so it makes sense that Cambodian businesses are exploring ways that they can incorporate these values into their operations. 

With this in mind, Senior Communications Officer Stew Post sat down with Director of Frantz Vaganay for a conversation on the group's work in Cambodia's sustainability space, the role of the private sector in driving change and what 2025 will look like for the ESG consulting firm. 


Full interview
 
 
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Stat of the Week
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 , with the Cambodian Rice Federation reporting substantial figures for the first 11 months. The country exported a significant volume of 575,562 tonnes of milled rice, generating a revenue of $413.90 million. Though figures lag behind 2022 and 2023 figures for the same period  559 and 595 thousand tonnes respectively  exports of the Cambodian staple remain strong.

These exports were distributed across a diverse range of 67 destinations, including 26 European countries, China (including Hong Kong and Macau), ASEAN nations, and other global markets. 

The same Rice Federation report stated that Cambodia exported 4,642,511 tonnes of paddy rice, valued at an estimated $1,378.73 million. 
Member Exclusive Promotion
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Week in Review
EuroCham's Fast Moving Consumer
Goods Forum a success 
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A panel of experts – (left to right) Ms. Sin Sokanha; Mr. Lao Reasey; Mr. Sok Sovithyea; Ms. Julian Cheung; Mr. Tan Ser Chhay; Ms. Chan Sereyratha 
On Wednesday, December 4th, EuroCham Cambodia hosted the FMCG Forum: Tackling Counterfeit Goods & Illicit Trade at Novotel BKK1. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, regulatory bodies, and consumer protection agencies, to address pressing challenges in the FMCG industry.

We were honoured to have H.E. Mak Pichrith, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, deliver the opening remarks, setting the tone for a day of impactful discussions and knowledge sharing.

"The FMCG sector is more than just an economic driver—it is a barometer of our nation’s progress and aspiration. It is a conduit for growth, opportunity, and national progress. Its challenges are real, but so is its potential," explained the Minister. 

The forum addressed key topics such as anti-illicit trade operations and their development, intellectual property and customs processes, and emerging trends in consumer behavior, advertising, and labelling.
Read our press release
 
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It's that time of year! With the end of 2024 fast approaching, we are reminding all of our valued EuroCham members that the renewal process for 2025 is now open.

Without the support or our members, we wouldn't be able to undertake the work we do to develop and grow the business landscape in Cambodia. Don't miss out on all the events, business solutions and public-private sector dialogue that we do on behalf of the EuroCham community.

Reach out to renew your membership today!
 
 
EuroCham hosts annual partner dinner 
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EuroCham partners and staff celebrate another year of collaboration and achievement
On Friday the 29th, EuroCham's Annual Partner Dinner brought together our high-level members for an evening of relaxed conversation, drinks, and delicious food. Hosted at TOPAZ: TheCommune, this intimate event was an opportunity to show appreciation for our partners and the support they provide throughout the year.

These dinners also give us a chance to get know each other a bit better, discuss holiday plans, and look ahead to what the next year has in store for our European business community. 

We would like to extend our gratitude to our Annual Partners. We would not be able to complete our work without their generous support. 


 
Bumrungrad Health Corner
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Bumrungrad Health Briefs #47: Screen Time and Digital Health: Finding the Balance

In today’s digital age, screens are nearly unavoidable. From smartphones to laptops and tablets, screens have become part of our daily lives. While these devices offer incredible convenience and entertainment, overexposure can affect our mental and physical health. Finding the right balance between screen time and digital health is crucial for our well-being.

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time

Excessive screen time can lead to various health issues, particularly in children and teens. Common effects include eyestrain, headaches, and difficulty focusing due to prolonged exposure to blue light. Spending long hours on devices can also impact posture, causing neck and back problems, often referred to as “tech neck.” Mental health can also suffer; studies have shown that high screen time is linked to increased feelings of anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances. For young people, it can disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.
 
Advocacy Corner
New policy lays roadmap for
Cambodia's EV ecosystem
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Cambodia's first charging station circa 2022. Building the supporting EV infrastructure is key to widescale adoption and outlined in the National Policy. Photo courtesy of Kiripost
On 29 May 2024, the Royal Government of Cambodia unveiled the "National Policy on the Development of Electric Vehicles 2024-2030." This policy is designed to serve as a comprehensive roadmap, driving investment and fostering the growth of Cambodia's electric vehicle ecosystems.

It aims to promote the adoption of electric vehicles through a step-by-step approach, leveraging market mechanisms and the Royal Government's capabilities and resources.

The policy seeks to capitalise on emerging regional and global trends, supporting sustainable growth and diversification while strengthening the resilience of Cambodia's economy and society.

Read the full policy:    

To stay up to date on all policy and regulation updates, follow our .
  
 
Chapter News
French Market's return bigger and better
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The red carpet welcomes guests to ItaCham's first monthly Aperitivo Networking event at Bellini Phnom Penh
Organised by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Cambodia (CCIFC) on Saturday 7 December, this year's French Market is set to build on the success of last year's event, which drew more than 13,500 visitors. 

Hosted by the French Embassy, the market will feature over 70 exhibitors showcasing an amazing variety of products and services, offering the chance to explore a treasure trove of French specialties. Enjoy culinary tastings, win exciting prizes, and join in on sports activities, all within the embassy's lovely park.

There will be fun for all ages, so bring the whole family!


 
Upcoming events
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Member/Partner News
Confluences co-launches Concorde Consultants
for sector-focused strategy
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Soreasmey Ke Bin, CEO of Confluences (left) and Sven Callebaut of Concorde Consultants. Photo courtesy of Cambodia Investment Review
has launched , a new consulting and development aid firm. This marks the company’s second sector-focused initiative after the success of .

Concorde Consultants will focus on addressing Cambodia’s growth challenges in five key sectors, including Infrastructure and Transport, Energy and Environment practice, Agriculture and Rural Development, Digital Transformation and ICT initiatives, and Economic Development and Trade. 

Co-founder Sven Callebaut explained, “At Concorde, we believe in the power of local expertise to drive meaningful change...By bridging global opportunities with local talent, we aim to foster a community of professionals who can lead Cambodia’s economic and digital transformation, while ensuring sustainable development for generations to come.”
 
Prudential Cambodia earns praise for
Diversity and Inclusion efforts
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CEO Ponlu Tola shares his thoughts on DI at a forum on Women in Leadership. Photo courtesy of Khmer Times 
after winning the “Most Caring Company Award” from HR Asia and receiving a nomination in the “Diversity, Inclusion and Social Leader Award” at EuroCham's ESG Contest, CEO Ponlu Tola shared his thoughts about diversity and inclusion. 

He emphasised that Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) is not just a strategy but a core principle of respect and equality, highlighting the need for D&I to be integrated into recruitment, talent development, and overall business strategies.

Listening to employees, setting clear D&I goals, and investing in inclusive training were also key insights shared by Mr. Ponlu Tola. The CEO also warned against "rainbow washing" and stressed the importance of structural changes alongside celebrations. He recommended senior leaders embrace open-mindedness, challenge biases, and remain engaged with D&I communities.
 
Lifestyle Corner
Yuletide Celebration Closes Architectural Exhibition at Raintree Phnom Penh
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A collection of photographs from Modern Architecture: Echoes + Reflections Catalogue
Hosted at Raintree – one of Phnom Penh’s most unique office, co-working and community spaces – and in collaboration with the Vann Molyvann Project and NK-A, “Modern Architecture: Echoes + Reflections,” is coming to a close. Running from November 2 alongside a series of community events, the exhibition is a celebration of the cultural and design legacy of Cambodia’s New Khmer Architecture movement of the 1950s and 1960s.

Collecting rare and previously unseen materials from the Vann Molyvann Project and Vann Molyvann Private Collection – including architectural drawings, concept designs and photographs – "Echoes + Reflections" provides a glimpse into some of Cambodia’s most iconic buildings. The Molyvann’s famous White Building, Battambang University and his proposed architecture museum in Siem Reap are all highlighted.

But this architectural collection is going out with a bang!

The grand finale of the exhibition is being celebrated with , on Friday 6 December from 6-10pm at the Canopy & Crown on Raintree's rooftop. Bringing together tenants, partners, and friends, the dazzling evening will feature an installation from contemporary artist Siden Kong, delicious food, and live music.

Don’t miss out on the last chance to explore Echoes + Reflections and toast to 2024 in style!

Friday 6th December 2024 | 6 PM - 10 PM
The Canopy & Crown, Raintree Rooftop (RF)
FREE ENTRY
 
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