Property News Roundup 02nd March 2026
We’re delighted to share the weekly news highlights below:
1. Cambodia, Japan trade tops $2.5B amid regional, consumer trends shift
rade between Cambodia and Japan has grown significantly, exceeding $2.5 billion, driven by stronger economic cooperation and evolving regional consumer trends. According to recent data, bilateral trade increased notably in 2025, with Cambodian exports rising and imports from Japan also climbing sharply, particularly in vehicles, machinery, and other manufactured goods. This growth reflects deepening economic ties, growing demand in both markets, and opportunities arising from shifting consumer preferences across the region. Cambodia’s export sectors like garments, agricultural products, and electronics have benefited from broader Asian market trends, while Japanese imports meet rising domestic demand and industrial needs. The expanded trade relationship reinforces Japan’s role as an important economic partner for Cambodia, complementing investments and bilateral economic cooperation initiatives. Overall, the upward pattern in trade highlights continued regional integration and diversification of Cambodia’s external economic relationships.
Date: February 23rd, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/pb5wkbtp
2. US explores expanded trade ties as Cambodia’s economy grows
The United States is actively looking to deepen trade and economic relations with Cambodia as the Kingdom’s economy continues expanding. U.S. officials, including the Deputy Secretary of State, have highlighted opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, and economic engagement, reflecting confidence in Cambodia’s growth prospects. Cambodia’s improving business environment, robust export performance, and rising foreign investment appeal have drawn Washington’s attention, with both sides exploring new ways to enhance market access and commercial partnerships. The discussions aim to build on existing trade links, diversify economic ties, and support sustainable growth in priority sectors. The U.S. sees Cambodia not only as a growing market but also as a strategic partner in the region’s shifting economic landscape, driven by evolving consumer trends and supply chain realignments. This renewed focus on trade relations underscores mutual interest in expanding economic cooperation and fostering long-term commercial ties that benefit businesses and consumers in both countries.
Date: February 23rd, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/yzhw5dvf
3. President Trump imposes 15% tariff on all imports, including Cambodia
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a significant increase in tariffs, raising the global import tax rate to 15% on all imported goods, including those from Cambodia. This tariff rise follows an earlier announcement of a 10% tariff and is part of Trump’s broader strategy to reshape U.S. trade policy and address trade imbalances with global partners. The expanded levy applies broadly to imports across many countries, signaling a more protectionist stance intended to encourage domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign products. While the policy aims to boost U.S. economic interests, it could increase costs for American consumers and prompt pushback from trading partners. For Cambodia, this change may affect exporters that sell goods into the U.S. market, potentially reducing competitiveness if higher tariffs are passed through prices. The move adds to ongoing global trade tensions and highlights the importance of diplomatic and economic engagement between the United States and its trading partners.
Date: February 23rd, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/bdjprd7r
4. A French Company Is Considering a $1.2 Billion Hydropower Project in Cambodia
The French state-owned utility Électricité de France (EDF) is evaluating a major $1.2 billion hydropower project in Cambodia, proposing an 800-megawatt plant to help expand the country’s electricity capacity. EDF representatives, including senior vice president Erkki Maillard, met with Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth and French embassy official Marie Buscail to discuss the initiative. Cambodian officials welcomed the proposal, highlighting the strong cooperation between Cambodia and France and the alignment with Cambodia’s goals to diversify foreign investment in energy, strengthen energy security, and lower electricity costs amid rising demand. The government sees stable, affordable power as crucial for industrial growth, competitiveness, and technology-driven sectors. EDF stressed that the project would adhere to high international standards for safety, environmental protection, governance, and technical quality, and emphasized a long-term partnership rather than a simple transaction. Cambodian authorities said the project would support economic development and enhance energy sustainability.
Date: February 23rd, 2026, |CambodiaNess| Retrieved form: https://tinyurl.com/4w53xmwd
5. EU and Cambodia pledge commitment to international law
The European Union and Cambodia have reaffirmed their shared commitment to upholding international law and a rules-based global order during high-level discussions between Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet and senior EU officials, including European Council President António Costa. The talks, held in Brussels as part of Hun Manet’s diplomatic outreach, focused on strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing cooperation on human rights, good governance, regional security, and economic engagement. Both sides emphasized support for Cambodia’s planned graduation from Least Developed Country status by 2029, and discussed broader issues including EU–ASEAN relations, regional stability, and collaborative development efforts. The EU welcomed Cambodia’s backing of EU initiatives in Southeast Asia and expressed appreciation for Cambodia’s role in promoting peace and multilateral cooperation. Discussions also touched on border peace talks with Thailand, with the EU backing implementation of existing ceasefire agreements in line with international law. The visit reinforces strategic diplomatic engagement and mutual respect for legal norms as a foundation for deeper partnership.
Date: February 27th, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/8rfbryxx
6. SSCA sets new target of 8M air passengers in 2026
Cambodia’s aviation sector is targeting strong growth in 2026 as the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA) sets an ambitious goal of handling 8 million air passengers next year, up from around 6 million in 2025. SSCA officials highlighted increasing travel demand and expanded flight connections as key drivers, reflecting rising tourism and business travels post-COVID-19. Plans to upgrade airport infrastructure and enhance service quality across major hubs like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville aim to support capacity expansion and improve passenger experience. The SSCA also emphasized safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory standards as essential for sustainable growth. Strengthening partnerships with airlines, developing new routes, and encouraging more international carriers to serve Cambodian airports are part of the strategy to attract more travelers. The target underscores confidence in Cambodia’s economic rebound and tourism recovery, positioning the country as a regional aviation hub. The SSCA’s plan contributes to broader national development goals by boosting connectivity, investment, and global accessibility
Date: February 27th, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/mr2naumk
7. Migrant workers’ remittances dropped 37% in 2025
Cambodia experienced a significant decline in remittances from migrant workers in 2025, with inflows falling by 37 percent compared to the previous year. The drop was attributed to global economic slowdown, reduced employment opportunities abroad, and changes in foreign labor demand, particularly in traditional destination countries like Thailand. Authorities and analysts noted that this reduction in remittance income could adversely affect household consumption and rural economies that rely heavily on cash sent from overseas workers. Government officials highlighted efforts to strengthen domestic job creation and improve working conditions at home to reduce dependence on foreign employment. The decline also raised concerns about the resilience of Cambodia’s economy, especially in rural provinces where remittances support education, health care, and basic living expenses. Policymakers stressed the need for economic diversification, skills training, and greater support for small-business growth to build more sustainable income sources for families affected by reduced remittance flows.
Date: February 27th, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/536ryt9b
8. Cambodia’s Travel Industry to See High Growth in Chinese Tourist Arrivals by 2026
Cambodia’s travel industry is poised for significant expansion in Chinese tourist arrivals through 2026, driven by improved connectivity, visa facilitation, and growing demand among China’s outbound travelers. Industry experts and tourism officials project a surge in Chinese visitors as airlines increase direct flights to Cambodian destinations such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. Enhanced marketing efforts and collaborative promotions between Cambodia and Chinese travel stakeholders aim to spotlight Cambodian cultural, historical, and natural attractions, including the Angkor temple complex. The anticipated growth aligns with broader regional travel trends, as Southeast Asia becomes increasingly popular among Chinese tourists seeking diverse experiences. Tourism authorities also emphasize the importance of improving infrastructure, service quality, and tourism-related facilities to accommodate higher visitor numbers and ensure positive travel experiences. The projected increase in Chinese arrivals is expected to boost Cambodia’s tourism revenue, support local businesses, create jobs, and contribute to wider economic recovery and sustained growth in the post-pandemic period.
Date: February 24th, 2026, |Travel and Tour World| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/mr2nh7hp
9. Cambodia’s GFT Sector Hits $1.4B in January Exports
Cambodia’s garments, footwear, and textiles (GFT) sector achieved strong export performance in January, reaching $1.4 billion, driven by robust demand from key international markets. Industry representatives highlighted that this growth reflects improved production capacity, competitive pricing, and increased orders from the United States and Europe. Despite global economic challenges, Cambodia’s GFT manufacturers benefited from supply chain diversification and strengthened trade relations, enabling them to capture more market share. The export rise also underscores the sector’s role as a cornerstone of Cambodia’s economy, supporting employment for hundreds of thousands of workers and contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings. Stakeholders expressed confidence that ongoing investment in skills training, quality improvements, and compliance with international standards will sustain sector growth throughout the year. Government officials noted that supportive policies and trade agreements could further enhance export performance. The January result signals positive momentum for the GFT industry, reinforcing its potential to drive broader economic expansion and integration into global value chains.
Date: February 24th, 2026, |CambodgeMag| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/2zz7n2xn
10. Trade with RCEP rises by 14.7 percent to $3.7B in Jan
Cambodia’s trade with Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) member countries surged by 14.7 percent in January, reaching $3.7 billion compared to the same month last year. Officials attributed this growth to stronger regional demand, expanded export markets, and improved integration within the Asia-Pacific trade bloc. Key export items included garments, footwear, agricultural products, and electronics, while imports from RCEP partners featured machinery, raw materials, and consumer goods needed for domestic industries. The rise underscores the benefits Cambodia has been gaining from the RCEP agreement, which aims to reduce trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation among member states such as China, Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN nations. Cambodia’s increased trade highlights its deeper integration into regional supply chains and growing competitiveness in regional markets. Government representatives expressed confidence that continued participation in RCEP will boost exports, attract more investment, and support economic recovery. The data signals positive momentum for Cambodia’s trade performance amid broader regional economic cooperation.
Date: February 24th, 2026, |Khmer Time| Retrieved from: https://tinyurl.com/ev8h3txn