Phnom Penh: On January 12, 2026, the Embassy of Japan in Cambodia hosted the Business Co-creation Team (BCT) Launching Ceremony at the Residence of the Ambassador of Japan, marking a significant milestone in strengthening economic cooperation between Japan and Cambodia.
The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Mr. SUN Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), with the participation of senior officials from relevant Cambodian line ministries and institutions who comprise the BCT.
The establishment of the BCT is a key outcome of Prime Minister Hun Manet’s first official visit to Japan in May 2025, during which a summit meeting was held with then Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio. At the conclusion of the summit, both leaders announced the Economic Co-Creation Package, aimed at diversifying Cambodia’s economic partnerships and strengthening systems to attract and support greater Japanese investment.
Speaking at the ceremony, H.E. Mr. UENO Atsushi highlighted recent regional developments, noting that Cambodia experienced a challenging period last year due to border tensions with Thailand. He welcomed the second ceasefire agreement reached on 27 December and the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers on 31 December, expressing Japan’s strong hope that the ceasefire will be steadily and faithfully implemented. He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting peace and stability through cooperation with relevant partners.
“As everyone present here today is well aware, the establishment of the BCT is one of the most significant outcomes of Prime Minister Hun Manet’s first official visit to Japan,” Ambassador UENO said. “During that visit, the two leaders agreed on the Economic Co-Creation Package, which includes a range of initiatives designed to further promote Japanese investment in Cambodia.”
H.E. Mr. SUN Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), said Cambodia hopes to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict so future generations can live side by side in harmony.
He expressed hope for a return to normalcy, including the reopening of borders and checkpoints, so that the benefits of long-standing economic policies jointly pursued by Cambodia and Thailand can be fully realized.
“Both governments have worked very hard on the ‘Thailand Plus One’ strategy, including Japan Plus One, China Plus One, Vietnam Plus One, and others. This strategy is highly beneficial for both countries,” he said.
His excellency noted that border closures have disrupted supply chains and increased operational costs, forcing businesses to rely on longer and more expensive sea routes instead of land transport.
“When borders are open, goods and components from Thailand can be processed in Cambodia and then shipped back to Thailand for final assembly. This saves time, reduces costs, and strengthens regional supply chains,” he added.
H.E. Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Cambodian Investment Board, mentioned that the Board recognizes that investors, particularly newcomers, face various challenges. Through systematic engagement with stakeholders and the use of verified and reliable sources of information, the Cambodian Investment Board provides both general and technical advisory services to ensure investors are well equipped with comprehensive and accurate guidance.
“The Cambodian Investment Board is committed to supporting investors, especially newcomers, by providing reliable information, effective facilitation services, and strong aftercare through close cooperation with all relevant stakeholders.” Chea Vuthy said.
The BCT represents the centerpiece of the Economic Co-Creation Package. Created in response to requests from the Japanese Business Association of Cambodia (JBAC), the team will take over the existing Japan Desk at the CDC in a fundamentally enhanced form. As a cross-ministerial mechanism, the BCT will provide comprehensive information and one-stop solutions for Japanese investors considering investment in Cambodia, as well as for Japanese companies already operating in the country. The BCT was established following agreement at the highest level of both governments. Through the leadership of Cambodian authorities, including H.E. Mr. Sun Chanthol and H.E. Mr. Chea Vuthy, a total of 33 qualified and experienced officials from eight ministries and agencies, as well as the CDC, have joined the team. The BCT was officially launched on 16 October 2025.
Photo by: Engly Tuy & Supplied
