In a significant development for Cambodia’s investment landscape, a delegation from Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China, has announced plans to establish two new special economic zones focused on technology and agro-industry. This initiative aims to bolster economic ties and attract a wave of Chinese investors to the Southeast Asian nation.
The announcement came during a pivotal meeting on May 23, 2025, between His Excellency Chea Wutty, Secretary-General of the Cambodia Investment Committee, and Mr. Zhao Jianjun, Governor of Wuxi. Both parties discussed strategies to enhance investment opportunities and elevate the prospects of special economic zones in Cambodia.
Governor Zhao expressed his commitment to fostering deeper collaboration, emphasizing the importance of encouraging investors from Jiangsu Province and Wuxi City to drive the development of these zones. He highlighted the recent introduction of a direct flight route from Wuxi to Sihanoukville, which promises to facilitate business travel and engagement. Looking forward, Zhao also mentioned plans for a direct cargo line connecting Jiangsu Province to the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, enhancing logistics and supply chain efficiency.
The two proposed special economic zones will focus on:
High-Tech Industries: Aiming to attract cutting-edge technology firms and innovation-driven projects.
Agro-Industrial Sector: Concentrating on modernizing agricultural practices and boosting productivity in Cambodia’s vital farming industry.
In response, HE Chea Wutty welcomed the ongoing support and encouragement from Wuxi leaders toward Chinese investors. He expressed his hope that the discussions would pave the way for significant investments in high-tech and sustainable energy sectors. Moreover, Wutty urged the Chinese delegation to assist in fostering investment in the production of raw materials and semi-finished goods within Cambodia to enhance the stability of supply chains.
According to the Council for the Development of Cambodia, the current landscape of special economic zones, particularly the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, has attracted investments from around 200 companies, contributing to approximately 30% of Cambodia’s total exports from these zones. The establishment of the new zones could further amplify these numbers, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
As Cambodia positions itself as an emerging hub for investment and economic development, the collaboration with Chinese counterparts signals a promising outlook for both nations, charting a course toward mutual economic prosperity.
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