The meeting reaffirmed Singapore and Cambodia’s close cooperation while exchanging views on bilateral relations and regional developments.

Singapore’s Ambassador to Cambodia, H.E. Steven Pang, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Pen Vibol, Senior Minister in Charge of Special Missions of Cambodia, on 20 July 2026.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on Singapore Cambodia relations and regional developments. Ambassador Pang and H.E. Pen Vibol also reaffirmed the close cooperation between the Singapore Police Force and the Cambodian National Police.

Both sides expressed their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding cooperation between the two police forces, underscoring the importance of continued collaboration as part of the broader partnership between Singapore and Cambodia.

Source: Singapore Embassy in Phnom Penh

The Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Singapore shared a recap of diplomatic, cultural, and international engagements attended by Ambassador Sok Khoeun throughout May 2026.

The Royal Embassy of Cambodia to the Republic of Singapore released its monthly recap highlighting the activities and diplomatic engagements of His Excellency Sok Khoeun during May 2026.

On 3 May 2026, His Excellency Ambassador Sok Khoeun attended a hockey tournament that included participation from a Cambodian team.

On 6 May 2026, the Ambassador joined the celebrations for Europe Day in Singapore.

On 7 May 2026, His Excellency attended the national celebration hosted by the Holy See.

On 12 May 2026, the Ambassador participated in the Johor-Singapore Economic Zone Tour organised by the Embassy of Malaysia in Singapore.

On 14 May 2026, His Excellency attended a conference and exhibition focused on the global space industry and related developments.

On 15 May 2026, Ambassador Sok Khoeun attended a Charity Gala supporting Extraordinary People, alongside fellow dignitaries and guests.

On 19 May 2026, His Excellency attended the opening programme of the ISPA 2026 Singapore Congress.

Later that same day, Ambassador Sok Khoeun attended the 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner hosted by the Energy Market Authority, with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong serving as the Guest of Honour.

The monthly engagements reflected Cambodia’s continued diplomatic outreach and active participation in regional and international events in Singapore.

Source & Photos Credit: The Royal Embassy of Cambodia to the Republic of Singapore

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn visited Singapore on 10–11 March 2026 to enhance cooperation and discuss regional issues with Singapore leaders.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, Prak Sokhonn, made an official visit to Singapore from 10 to 11 March 2026. The visit was made at the invitation of Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

During the visit, Prak Sokhonn paid a courtesy call on Singapore’s Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong, on 11 March 2026 in Singapore. Prime Minister Wong reaffirmed the strong and longstanding relationship between Singapore and Cambodia. He noted that the partnership is supported by regular high-level exchanges and increasing economic and people-to-people ties.

Both leaders discussed ways to expand cooperation in trade, investment, and capacity building. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong also expressed support for Cambodia’s long-term development and welcomed greater collaboration in new areas such as the green economy. The two leaders agreed on the importance of strengthening unity within Association of Southeast Asian Nations and deepening regional integration during uncertain global conditions.

Prak Sokhonn also held talks and attended a working lunch hosted by Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. The two ministers reviewed the progress of bilateral relations and discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in areas such as human resource development, food security, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects.

They also highlighted the importance of maintaining ASEAN centrality and building stronger partnerships to address global challenges. In addition, the ministers exchanged views on regional developments, including the situation along the Cambodia–ºÚÁÏÉç border.

In a post on X, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan described Prak Sokhonn as a close friend and noted that the visit builds on the strong momentum following the celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Cambodia in 2025. He added that both countries agreed to increase cooperation in sectors including food security, renewable energy, and the digital economy.

Balakrishnan also said they discussed regional developments and expressed hope that Cambodia and ºÚÁÏÉç would continue to build on the current ceasefire and resolve their differences peacefully through dialogue and negotiations.

Source: MFA

General Mao Sophan met Singapore’s defence leadership and observed operational capabilities as part of a three-day introductory visit to strengthen bilateral defence ties.

SINGAPORE, 21 October 2025 – General (GEN) Mao Sophan, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces and Commander of the Royal Cambodian Army, conducted an introductory visit to Singapore from 21 to 23 October 2025. He called on Minister of State for Defence Desmond Choo on Tuesday afternoon, where both sides reaffirmed the warm and friendly defence relationship between Singapore and Cambodia and exchanged views on regional and international security issues of mutual interest.

During his visit, GEN Mao Sophan reviewed a Guard of Honour at the Ministry of Defence before meeting Chief of Defence Force Vice-Admiral Aaron Beng and Chief of Army Major-General Cai Dexian. Their discussions focused on maintaining strong defence ties and enhancing cooperation through practical engagements.

image by: MINDEF

GEN Mao Sophan also visited the 9th Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment, where he observed a dynamic display of incident response capabilities and viewed a static showcase featuring electric all-terrain vehicles, tactical response pistols, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The visit offered a closer look at the Singapore Armed Forces’ operational readiness and technological advancements.

The introductory programme underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral defence cooperation between Singapore and Cambodia. Both defence establishments continue to engage regularly through high-level visits, professional exchanges, and multilateral platforms such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus.

SOURCE: MINDEF

In a double celebration, Singapore marks its 60th year of independence alongside 60 years of diplomatic relations with Cambodia, reaffirming shared values and future cooperation.

Singapore — Singapore celebrates the 60th anniversary of its independence. This year marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s journey. It is our great honour to extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Government and friendly people of Singapore on this joyous occasion of the 60th Birthday. 

We wish to sincerely congratulate Singapore on this journey of transformation from a third-world country to the top one, with achievements, prosperity, and social harmony and cohesion that serve as an inspiring model for countries around the world. We strongly believe that Singapore will continue to thrive and shine brightly on the world stage. 

On the other hand, Cambodia and Singapore commemorate 60 years of diplomatic ties. This momentous occasion bears testimony to the enduring friendship, mutual respect and partnership that the two countries have nurtured. Cambodia was among the first countries to recognise Singapore’s independence. However, the old generations of our two countries started building their relations even before Singapore’s independence, laying the foundations for strong and long-lasting connections that we see today. Over the past 60 years, both countries have enjoyed long-standing, robust and excellent relations and multifaceted cooperation in various sectors such as economy, trade and investment, security and defence, education, tourism, culture and people-to-people connectivity. Both leaders agreed on the importance of deepening new emerging cooperative fields, including renewable energy and carbon credits, driving the decarbonization of the economy. 

While the world is changing, more complicated and uncertain, Cambodia and Singapore, as like-minded countries in the world, have worked closely to strengthen multilateralism and rule-based international order as well as bilaterally and within regional frameworks such as ASEAN to advance the interests of our people and region. Both countries share common interests in open and free trade, prosperity, security and growth in the region and beyond. We do believe that bilateral ties and partnership will continue to grow from strength to strength and further deepen to even greater heights for the benefit of our people. 

During his introductory visit to Cambodia, Prime Minister Wong reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to deepening cooperation across key sectors.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong delivered remarks at an official lunch hosted in his honour by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh on 2 July 2025. Prime Minister Wong’s visit to Cambodia comes as the two nations celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Prime Minister Wong reflected on the longstanding friendship between the two nations, recalling Cambodia’s early recognition of Singapore’s sovereignty in 1965 and its role as one of the first countries to host a Singapore overseas mission. He acknowledged the strong foundations laid by former leaders, including Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and Cambodia’s King-Father Norodom Sihanouk, emphasising mutual respect and trust as enduring cornerstones of the relationship.

In his speech, Prime Minister Wong highlighted Cambodia’s progress in recent decades and reaffirmed Singapore’s support for the country’s Pentagonal Strategy to achieve high-income status by 2050. Looking ahead, Prime Minister Wong outlined several key areas of bilateral cooperation. These include joint efforts to deepen renewable energy collaboration and build the ASEAN Power Grid; development of carbon markets to finance clean energy and uplift rural communities; and agri-trade partnerships to support food security. He also reaffirmed the shared commitment to strengthening ASEAN centrality and unity amid a challenging global environment.

Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Wong expressed confidence in the continued growth of Cambodia–Singapore relations and proposed a toast to the health of Cambodian leaders and the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Source:

Prime Minister Wong’s visit to Phnom Penh on 2 July 2025 marks a significant step in strengthening Singapore–Cambodia bilateral ties.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong will make his introductory visit to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on 2 July 2025, at the invitation of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

While in Phnom Penh, Prime Minister Wong will participate in a Welcome Ceremony at the Peace Palace. He is scheduled to have a Royal Audience with His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, call on Senate President Hun Sen, and meet with Prime Minister Hun Manet. An Official Lunch will be hosted in his honour by Prime Minister Manet.

Prime Minister Wong will be accompanied by Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Industry Gan Siow Huang, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Prime Minister’s Office. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong will serve as Acting Prime Minister.

Source:

The Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Singapore outlines regulatory frameworks, economic potential, and collaborative opportunities for Singaporean businesses.

SINGAPORE, 30 June 2025 – As part of the IN Diplomacy Trade Talk Series, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Singapore participated in an interview with IN Diplomacy to discuss the current trade environment, opportunities, and bilateral relations between Cambodia and Singapore.

Q: Are there any particular regulations or compliance requirements for importing or exporting to and from your country?

Of course, Cambodia has specific regulations and compliance requirements for importing and exporting goods, governed primarily by the Law on Customs, the Law on Management of Quality and Safety of Products and Services, and related sub-decrees and prakas (ministerial decisions). All imported goods must be declared to the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), under the Ministry of Economy and Finance. Importers are subject to duties and taxes ranging from 0% to 35%, along with 10% VAT and special taxes for goods such as alcohol, tobacco, and fuel. In some cases, import licences or authorisations from line ministries are required, such as from the Ministry of Health or the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

To ensure product quality and safety, goods must meet standards overseen by the Institute of Standards of Cambodia (ISC), and some require pre-shipment inspection and laboratory testing. Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures apply to food and agriculture imports. Exporters must register with the Ministry of Commerce, and depending on the goods, obtain necessary export licences and Certificates of Origin (COs) for preferential access under FTAs like ASEAN-China and RCEP.

Q: What are the advantages and challenges of trading with Cambodia?

Cambodia offers a peaceful and stable political environment with a pro-business government, and is recognised as one of the fastest-growing emerging markets. With macroeconomic stability, low inflation, and a growing middle-income population, the country is on track to graduate from Least Developed Country status by 2029. The business environment is liberal, offering 100% foreign ownership, profit repatriation, tax holidays of up to 9 years, and duty exemptions under the new investment law.

Strategically located in Southeast Asia, Cambodia provides access to regional and global markets through its participation in multiple FTAs, including those with China, Korea, the UAE, and ASEAN. A young, dynamic workforce, lower wage costs, and vocational training programs further support manufacturing and investment. Ongoing infrastructure developments, such as new airports, expressways, seaports and digital payment systems, improve logistics and connectivity. While there are challenges like navigating bureaucracy, the government’s one-window service and regular public-private forums aim to address business concerns efficiently.

Q: What are the currently traded goods or services between Singapore and your country?

Trade between Cambodia and Singapore has grown steadily. In 2024, bilateral trade reached USD 4.83 billion, a 7.19% increase from 2023. From January to May 2025 alone, trade has already reached USD 1.46 billion. Cambodia’s exports to Singapore include natural or cultured pearls, rubber, leather articles, garments and clothing accessories, footwear, rice, machinery, beverages, and electrical equipment.

On the import side, Cambodia mainly receives mineral fuels, oils, plastics, edible preparations, vehicles, tanning extracts, and various machinery from Singapore. This bilateral trade reflects Cambodia’s expanding industrial base and Singapore’s role as a supplier of high-value and processed goods.

Q: Could Singapore serve as a hub or supply chain gateway for your products to the ASEAN or Asia-Pacific markets?

Singapore is well-positioned to serve as a hub for Cambodian products, offering advanced logistics, world-class infrastructure, and proximity to major Asia-Pacific markets. Its port is among the busiest globally, and the country hosts many multinational logistics firms, enabling efficient supply chain management.

Cambodian producers can benefit from Singapore’s streamlined distribution networks to reach broader regional and global markets. With the presence of high-quality warehousing, cold-chain systems, and digital trade platforms, Cambodian goods—particularly agricultural and light manufacturing products—can expand into ASEAN and beyond through Singaporean partnerships.

Q: Are there any trade promotion programs or initiatives that can facilitate trade between Cambodia and Singapore?

Yes, Cambodia actively promotes trade through bilateral agreements and initiatives aimed at strengthening private sector collaboration. A key initiative is the Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) signed between Cambodia and Singapore, which enhances investor confidence and supports cross-border economic activity. The Government-Private Sector Forum, convened regularly, allows business communities to voice challenges directly to the Prime Minister and ministries for resolution and policy improvement.

Other efforts include the June 2024 MoU between the Singapore Business Federation and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce to deepen business collaboration. Enterprise Singapore offers support for Singapore firms expanding into Cambodia. The Financial Transparency Corridor (FTC), launched by the National Bank of Cambodia and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, enables SME-level trade financing through secure digital data exchange. The Cambodia-Singapore Cooperation Centre (CSCC) further provides technical capacity-building to support long-term trade facilitation.

Q: How does the embassy support companies from Singapore or other countries interested in doing business with yours?

As you are already aware, the Cambodian Embassy in Singapore plays a proactive role in facilitating foreign business engagement. Under the country’s Economic Diplomacy Strategy launched in 2021, the Embassy acts as a first point of contact for investors, providing updated information on investment laws, priority sectors, and government incentives. It also assists with navigating regulations, supporting market research, and promoting product visibility.

Beyond this, the Embassy organises business networking events, facilitates introductions to relevant Cambodian agencies, and coordinates business matching sessions. It also promotes Cambodia’s economic appeal through trade events, cultural forums, and by offering advisory services for Singaporean businesses interested in entering or expanding within Cambodia.

Q: What are the key Cambodian goods that present tariff and cost advantages for Singapore’s importers under existing or future trade agreements?

Cambodia’s exports offer clear tariff and cost advantages under ASEAN’s Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). These include zero tariffs on nearly all traded goods between Cambodia and Singapore, and preferential rules of origin under RCEP that benefit supply chain integration.

Key Cambodian products include high-quality rice, particularly fragrant jasmine rice, cashew nuts, and a variety of tropical fruits. Apparel, footwear, travel goods, and light-manufactured products like bicycles and electronics components also benefit from duty-free access. Singaporean importers can source these goods at competitive prices while enjoying simplified customs procedures and preferential tariffs.

Q: What kinds of products from your country are you actively looking to introduce into new markets?

Cambodia is actively diversifying its export portfolio under its Trade Integration Strategy and national development plans. Top priorities include agricultural products such as fragrant and organic rice, edible bird’s nest, processed fruits (e.g., mangoes, bananas, durians), and geographical indication products like Kampot pepper and palm sugar.

Other targeted sectors include light manufacturing such as solar panels, bicycles, and electronics parts, as well as footwear, leather goods, and travel accessories. These value-added products are part of Cambodia’s drive to move up the global value chain and reach high-growth markets across Asia and beyond.

Q: What would be your recommendations to Singaporean (or foreign) companies looking to establish a presence in your country?

We recommend that foreign investors target Cambodia’s priority sectors such as agro-processing, electronics, renewable energy, digital technology, logistics, and tourism. These are supported by fiscal incentives, including long tax holidays, duty exemptions, and 100% foreign ownership under the Investment Law of 2021.

Companies should also take full advantage of Cambodia’s participation in regional and bilateral trade agreements, including AFTA, RCEP, and FTAs with China, Korea, and the UAE. For official support, investors can engage with the Ministry of Commerce for licensing and with the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) for one-stop investment services and approvals.

The event celebrates Cambodia’s contributions to ASEAN and highlights continued regional cooperation.

Jakarta, 5 May 2025 – Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, attended a special dinner reception to commemorate the 26th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership in ASEAN. The dinner was hosted by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of the Kingdom of Cambodia, at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta.

The dinner followed a ceremonial celebration and a Policy Speech delivered earlier in the day by Samdech Techo Hun Sen. His address offered reflections on Cambodia’s journey within ASEAN and its vision for the future of regional cooperation.

Distinguished guests at the reception included members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN (CPR), the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to ASEAN, ambassadors from ASEAN’s Dialogue Partners and external partner countries, as well as representatives from diplomatic, academic, and business communities.

The event reaffirmed the strong partnership between ASEAN and Cambodia, emphasizing a shared commitment to advancing regional cooperation and strengthening ASEAN community-building efforts.

Cambodia’s thriving industries, strategic location, and regional agreements create a wealth of opportunities for international businesses, particularly for those in Singapore.

Cambodia has been witnessing robust economic growth driven by key industries such as tourism, agriculture, garment manufacturing, and construction. These sectors play a significant role in the country’s development, with tourism and garment manufacturing particularly contributing to the nation’s growth.

Phnom Penh, the capital city, stands as a key economic engine within the country. Located in Southeast Asia, it offers businesses direct access to the ASEAN market, positioning itself as an ideal gateway for companies looking to expand into the region. The city’s strategic location, along with its continually improving infrastructure, increases its appeal as a business hub in Southeast Asia.

For businesses in Singapore, Cambodia presents substantial opportunities for international expansion. The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement and the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) have eliminated tariffs on nearly all goods and services traded between the countries, creating a more predictable operating environment for service suppliers.

Cambodia’s key sectors for business expansion include:

• Tourism: With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Cambodia offers extensive opportunities in hospitality, travel services, and related infrastructure.
• Agriculture: The fertile land and favourable climate create significant investment potential in agricultural production and processing.
• Garment Manufacturing: As a major contributor to the economy, Cambodia’s garment industry offers opportunities for businesses in textiles and apparel.
• Construction: Urbanisation and infrastructure development continue to drive investment prospects in Cambodia’s construction sector.

Phnom Penh’s strategic location and Cambodia’s growing economic strengths underline the country’s increasing role as a business hub in Southeast Asia, offering companies access to the vast potential of the region.

Source: SBF