This report assesses the business environment in Cambodia, focusing on the regulatory environment, stability of the financial system, FDI intake, labour market flexibility and skillset, trade openness, mobility infrastructure, ICT adoption and innovative capabilities. Companies can evaluate these factors to understand the strengths and weaknesses of a country’s business environment for better strategic investment decisions.

The number of households is set to increase moderately, while the average household size will shrink in Cambodia over 2024-2029. Couples with children will remain the dominant household type but the fastest household expenditure growth is forecast to be recorded by single person households. In addition, the share of households living in urban areas is projected to expand to 45.7% by 2029.

Traditional cigarettes remain well-established and account for the largest share of tobacco sales in Cambodia. However, while volume sales increased in 2024, cigarette consumption in Cambodia has seen a gradual decline over the review period. This trend is driven by several factors such as a notable increase in e-vapour products use, particularly among younger consumers, the recent implementation of VAT on cigarettes, and growing awareness of the health risks linked to smoking.

Sales of beauty and personal care products grew in Cambodia in 2024 fuelled by the country's steady economic growth, with GDP growth of 5.4% in 2024 and a projected 6.0% rise in 2025. This growth has enhanced consumer purchasing power, leading to increased spending on beauty and personal care products.

The population of Cambodia is predicted to increase due to changes in net migration and natural change, standing at a total of 20.5 million citizens by 2040. Demographic changes, economic conditions and social trends are all contributing to negative net migration. The birth rate is anticipated to drop between 2024 and 2040. Middle Youth (aged 30-44) will represent the largest portion of the population by 2040.

Tissue and hygiene in Cambodia experienced steady growth in 2024, driven by rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanisation, and heightened consumer awareness of hygiene and sanitation. With Cambodia’s GDP expected to rise from 5.4% in 2024 to 6.0% in 2025, consumers have greater purchasing power, allowing them to allocate more spending towards hygiene and personal care products.

Although economic freedom is challenging and corruption remains problematic, Cambodia’s state finances are sound. Economic momentum will continue to outpace peers, whilst tourism and foreign investment will be growth drivers. In the long term, incomes expansion will be robust, supporting the consumer market, as will a young consumer base, but the large prevalence of lower social classes will limit discretionary spending. Mobile technology adoption has been swift, but 5G rollout has stalled.

The rising demand for home care products in Cambodia in 2024 is attributed to a heightened awareness of health and hygiene, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. Many Cambodians, particularly those in urban areas, are now more focused on maintaining clean and sanitised living spaces, leading to an increased demand for essential items such as disinfectants, detergents, and various cleaning supplies to ensure safe and hygienic households.

Soft drinks Cambodia has experienced noticeable growth in 2024, driven by factors such as rapid urbanisation, rising incomes, and evolving consumer preferences that mirror the fast-paced lifestyles of individuals seeking convenience in their daily routines. The market is highly competitive, characterised by a diverse mix of local and international brands vying for market share. Each brand employs various strategies, including innovative marketing campaigns, distinctive product differentiation, a

Hot drinks in Cambodia has experienced notable growth, driven by urbanisation, rising incomes, and shifting consumer preferences towards convenience and health-focused options. Local brands like Mondulkiri Coffee and international players such as Milo and Starbucks have gained traction through product innovation and targeted marketing. Expanding distribution channels, including delivery platforms and modern retail outlets, have further boosted accessibility, catering to busy lifestyles and enhan

In 2024, staple foods maintained a solid performance from the previous year with busy lifestyles and growth in tourism boosting demand. Moreover, positive economic growth in Cambodia has significantly fuelled demand for packaged food as it has increased consumer spending power and led to higher consumption of a wider range of products. Packaged food is also becoming more popular in Cambodia due to developments in technology and increased government investments.

In 2024, Cambodia sees increased local production of sauces, edible oils, and sweet spreads, driven by government initiatives like tax incentives and training programmes aimed at reducing import reliance. Urbanisation and changing lifestyles are fuelling demand for healthier and convenient food options, particularly oils. With a rising focus on health, coupled with busier lifestyles, consumers are seeking more variety, leading to sustained growth in cooking ingredients and meals.

Consumer health in Cambodia in 2024 is seeing rising demand for natural, organic, and plant-based products, as consumers increasingly prioritise holistic and preventative healthcare. Ingredients like spirulina, ginger, and moringa are gaining popularity. Urbanisation and a growing middle class are expanding access to OTC medicines through physical and online distribution.

In 2024, Cambodia's dairy sector has witnessed significant growth, due to the nation's economic expansion following the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The stable political environment has also boosted confidence, attracting investments in dairy farming and related industries. Meanwhile, increased domestic activities have driven demand for dairy products and alternatives, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs.

In 2024, snacks in Cambodia's is thriving, driven by economic growth, tourism revival, and manageable inflation. Post-pandemic recovery and GDP growth have boosted consumer spending. Political stability attracts investments, supporting growth and boosting consumer confidence. However, challenges include the popularity of unpackaged, artisanal snacks and limited rural penetration. Key trends show growing domestic production and increasing preference for packaged snacks in urban areas.

The commodities country overview provides comprehensive data on production, consumption and price trends on key commodities markets. The commodities overview in Cambodia covers production and consumption trends in agricultural commodities, energy products, electricity as well as an overview of key economic and business environment trends.

In 2023, Cambodia's alcoholic drinks industry, particularly beer, has been thriving amidst a growing economy. Beer remains a favourite among Cambodians, with both local and international brands enjoying widespread popularity. Consumers spent around USD2.3 billion on beer in 2023. Meanwhile, the country's GDP grew by 5%, supported by stable domestic politics, tourism recovery, increased investments, beneficial free trade agreements, and a robust banking system. Alcoholic drinks is expected to gro

Insight into income, wealth and expenditure of consumers and households is vital in helping businesses make strategic decisions with regards to which country (or even which region within a country) to enter, which consumer segment to target, which products or services to market, and at which price point. Other factors such as the size and expansion of the middle class and income inequality are also important in helping companies gauge the potential of a country market.

The report examines the economic landscape of Cambodia and provides information on major monetary indicators, foreign trade and government finance. The economy expanded in real terms in 2023, driven by exports, private consumption, government spending, investments. However global economic slowdown, rising geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation as well as tight financial conditions pose risks to the country’s economic outlook.

Asia Pacific remained the largest global producer of food, beverages and tobacco in 2021, with sales valued at USD3,809 billion. With the release of pent-up demand, the industry’s turnover witnessed an increase in 2021. Going forward, expanding domestic markets and rising productivity are expected to stimulate the industry’s growth. However, with tightening global food supplies amid climate change and geopolitical conflicts, challenges persist, especially for major regional food importers.

With a turnover of USD365.8 billion in 2021, Asia Pacific was the world’s second largest region for recreation, entertainment and arts. Over the next decade, the region’s entertainment industry is poised to grow at the fastest rate, nearly closing the gap with Western European turnover levels by 2030. Recovering tourism, growing investments and economic expansion are set to drive the entertainment industry’s growth in Asia Pacific, with China remaining in the lead.

Emerging Asia has been one of the most exciting regions in emerging markets during the last two decades and this trend is expected to continue, though the pace of growth has slowed down as the economies transform and mature. By 2040, emerging Asia will account for almost a third of global GDP and more than a quarter of consumer spending, highlighting huge opportunities for business and investors. Risks will remain, requiring business to be agile to identify sweet spots and overcome challenges.

With production of USD967 billion, Asia Pacific was the largest rubber and plastic producer globally in 2020. Regional production of rubber and plastic products remains highly concentrated in China, Japan and South Korea. Over 2021-2030, Asia Pacific is projected to be the second fastest growing region, driven by a strong economic recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic, rapidly growing manufacturing and construction sectors, and relatively low production costs.

Asian Pacific economies were hard hit by COVID-19, leading to setback in construction activities in the first half of 2020. Robust Chinese recovery, however, boosted construction output in the second half of the year. Heavy infrastructure investments, rebounding consumer and business confidence boost demand for construction through to 2030. Moreover, robust expansion in global demand for building materials boost construction costs, leading to the industry’s rising production value.