(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted that ASEAN is moving beyond “business as usual” to achieve the target of becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2045. While advanced economies currently face demographic pressures and productivity plateaus, ASEAN’s trajectory remains upward.
The premier spoke on Wednesday (Mar. 4) during the opening of the ASEAN-Cambodia Business Summit 2026 at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.
“To achieve the target of becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2045, ASEAN is moving beyond “business as usual”. […] While advanced economies currently face demographic pressures and productivity plateaus, ASEAN’s trajectory remains upward. With the ASEAN+3 region projected to grow at 4 per cent this year—outpacing the global average of 3.3 per cent— ASEAN is the primary engine of the global economy,” Samdech Thipadei underscored.
Samdech Thipadei continued that the investment data from 2024 and 2025 confirms a significant pivot toward our region. While global FDI flows contracted by 11 per cent, inflows to ASEAN rose by 8.5 per cent to USD 226 billion.
“ASEAN has matured into a sophisticated hub for semiconductors, automotive engineering, and digital services,” said the premier, adding that this resilience is the direct result of the commitment to regional integration and the harmonization of physical and digital infrastructure. For global firms looking to diversify their supply chains, ASEAN is no longer just an “alternative” destination; it is indeed the strategic centre of gravity for sustainable and long-term growth.
Within this regional framework, Cambodia is positioning itself as a strategic partner among ASEAN member countries. Cambodia offers a compelling strategic advantage for global investors, grounded in political stability, macroeconomic resilience, expanding market access, and a progressive and forward-looking regulatory framework. Despite the current regional and global context, Cambodia’s economy remains robust. The economy grew by 5.2 per cent in 2025, with solid growth projected to continue in the medium term, offering great opportunities for business and investment.
=FRESH NEWS
