On 13 March 2026, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Hem Vanndy met with a delegation from the Textile, Apparel, Footwear, and Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC), led by its new chairman, In Choy Ho, to discuss cooperation between international manufacturers and local enterprises.
The discussion took place in the context of Cambodia’s preparation to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in late 2029. During the meeting, TAFTAC highlighted the importance of developing upstream industries to expand the use of domestic inputs and strengthen supply chains within Cambodia.
Background
The garment, apparel, footwear, and travel goods sector is a major part of Cambodia’s industrial base and export economy. According to the ministry’s summary, the meeting focused on linking local enterprises more closely with the production chains of international manufacturers operating in Cambodia.
Key Discussion Points
TAFTAC called for the development of upstream industries as a means to increase local sourcing. The association said this would help expand the use of domestically produced inputs and reinforce domestic supply chains.
The ministry described the meeting as part of discussions on industrial cooperation as Cambodia prepares for its transition from LDC status.
Relevance for Industry and Investors
The meeting is relevant as a reference point for Cambodia’s industrial development agenda, particularly efforts to deepen domestic value addition and improve linkages between foreign manufacturers and local firms. It also reflects policy attention to supply-chain resilience and local input development ahead of Cambodia’s expected LDC graduation in 2029.
No regulatory measure, incentive, or formal policy instrument was announced in the cited summary.
Official Source
Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), meeting summary dated 13 March 2026, with further details referenced by the ministry at: https://www.misti.gov.kh/pressroom/news-and-events/M5ZJ2oznwXEi.
