Infrastructure Is About People, Not Concrete: How Leaders Are Rethinking What We Build, Where We Build, and How We Pay For it

By Tomas Kellner Nothing is certain except death and taxes, the cliché goes. But even taxes come with surprises—like the cost of crumbling infrastructure. “When we fail to invest in infrastructure, that’s a hidden tax we pay today,” said Tom Smith, executive director of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). “Instead of paying a real tax that would produce something, we’re paying in...

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Cambodia’s Banana Exports Flourish as China Remains Top Market

In a significant boost to its agricultural sector, Cambodia exported a remarkable 260,000 tons of fresh bananas in 2024, with a staggering 95% of this yield headed for the Chinese market. This surge in banana exports highlights Cambodia's growing influence in the international agricultural arena. To date, Cambodia boasts 21,000 hectares dedicated to yellow banana plantations, with 15,000 hectar...

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Joint Efforts Between Cambodia & the US to Advance Digital Park Development

In a significant step towards enhancing Cambodia's digital landscape, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, in collaboration with the US Embassy, has held productive discussions aimed at promoting the development of a digital park in the country. The meeting, featuring HE Minister Chea Vandet and Ms. Bridgette L. Walker, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy, centered on key initiatives i...

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Cambodia and Tajikistan Strengthen Ties in Energy, Agriculture & Education

In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, Cambodia and Tajikistan have pledged to jointly expand their cooperation in key sectors, including energy, agriculture, and education. This commitment was formalized during a meeting between Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon on 9 June 2025. During their discussions, both leaders emphasised the importance o...

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Cambodia Secures USD 78.81 Million in New Concessional Loans to Boost Economic Growth

In the first quarter of 2025, the Government of Cambodia successfully signed new concessional loans amounting to USD 78.81 million (equivalent to SDR 59.11 million). This funding represents 3% of the total borrowing ceiling allowed under national law, which stands at SDR 2,000 million. According to a report from the Ministry of Economy and Finance released on 2 June, all the new loans come with...

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Vietnamese Investors Show Strong Interest in Cambodia: 150 Companies Ready to Invest

In a significant move to strengthen bilateral economic ties, approximately 150 Vietnamese companies have expressed keen interest in investing in Cambodia. This development was highlighted during a meeting on 10 June 2025, between HE Nguyen Minh Vu, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia, and HE Binh Trachhai, the Minister of Planning. Ambassador Nguyen noted that the ongoing economic and trade c...

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Cambodia Sees Surge in Investment Activity in Early 2025

In a promising start to 2025, Cambodia has attracted 290 new investment projects, totalling over USD 4 billion in investment capital during the first five months, according to the latest report from the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC). Remarkably, this marks a significant increase from the same period last year, with 137 additional projects—an increase of nearly 90%. The investmen...

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Vietnam to Construct Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument to Celebrate Strong Ties

Vietnam has announced an ambitious plan to build a Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument, aimed at honouring the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. This initiative underscores their mutual gratitude and highlights the enduring ties that have existed throughout history. The announcement coincided with a visit from Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Presid...

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Germany Reaffirms Commitment to Cambodia’s Infrastructure Development

In a significant milestone marking 32 years of diplomatic relations, Germany has played a pivotal role in enhancing Cambodia's infrastructure, contributing to the development of over 2,000 kilometres of roadways. This achievement was highlighted during a recent meeting between HE Chhay Rithsen, Cambodia's Minister of Rural Development, and Mr. Gidon Windecker, a representative of the German Embass...

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Cambodia Enhances Port Management & Development: A Workshop for Zoning Strategies

  In an effort to strengthen administrative management and enhance efficiency across its maritime operations, Cambodia is focusing on its 103 ports. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is currently developing comprehensive zoning documents as part of the “Capacity Building Project for Port Administration Management.” This initiative was outlined in a recent workshop led by HE Pen...

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Emirates Airlines Expands Direct Flight Services to Cambodia to Enhance Tourism & Trade

In a significant boost to travel and trade, Emirates Airlines has announced its commitment to expanding flight connections with Cambodia, marking a pivotal step in enhancing tourism between the two nations. The announcement comes on the heels of the airline’s inaugural flight landing at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport on 3 June 2025. HE Mao Havannal, Minister of State for Civil Aviation,...

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Cambodian King Calls for Collaborative Action Against Plastic Pollution

In a passionate address to the nation, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni urged all stakeholders to join forces in managing plastic waste to safeguard the environment. This appeal coincides with National Environment Day and World Environment Day on 5 June, which this year emphasises the urgent need to “Beat Plastic Pollution.” His Majesty emphasised that the theme serves as both a reminder and a...

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