With a contribution of USD1.5 million from the Government of Japan, the initiative is expected to reach more than 50,000 factory workers, employed in the garment and textile sectors, across 118 factories located in the Royal Group Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone and Royal Group Kandal Special Economic Zones  over five years.

The project, titled “Breaking the Cycle of Malnutrition in Cambodia: Fortifying the Food Plate of Garment Factory Workers,” was officially launched at the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone and aims to address micronutrient deficiencies and improve workers’ health and productivity.

“Japan is proud to support Cambodia in addressing malnutrition through practical and scalable solutions. By improving access to nutritious food for garment workers, this initiative contributes not only to better health outcomes but also to stronger communities and a more resilient economy,” said MATSUDA Junsaku, Counsellor, Embassy of Japan in Cambodia, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Cambodia’s garment sector is a major driver of economic growth, employing hundreds of thousands of workers. However, many, particularly women, face high rates of malnutrition, including anaemia and other micronutrient deficiencies. Poor nutrition not only affects individual health and well-being but also affects  productivity, income, and national development.

Through this initiative, WFP and partners will introduce fortified rice into factory meal programmes, ensuring workers receive essential vitamins and minerals through their daily diets. As rice is Cambodia’s  primary staple food, fortification provides a practical andcost-effective way to improve nutrition without requiring changes to established eating habits.

The project will work closely with factory owners, food suppliers, and national stakeholders to:

• integrate fortified rice into workplace meal programme systems
• Strengthen supply chains and quality assurance for fortified foods
• Build capacity among producers and millers
• Raise awareness among workers on the benefits of improved nutrition.

“This project represents a crucial step toward improving the nutrition and well-being of Cambodia’s garment workers,” said Kyung-nan Park, WFP Representative and Country Director in Cambodia. “By integrating fortified rice into daily meals, we are helping workers access the nutrients they need to stay healthy, support their families, and contribute to Cambodia’s continued economic growth.” 

H.E. Pan Buntheoun, Secretary of State, Ministry of Planning (MoP), highlighted the government’s support for the initiative: “This project exemplifies our commitment to the well-being of Cambodia’s workforce. By addressing malnutrition among garment workers, we are investing in the health, productivity, and future prosperity of our people, which is essential for sustainable national development.”  

WFP will work  with partners including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Health Organization (WHO), and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), alongside government institutions and private sector stakeholders, to ensure coordinated and sustainable implementation.

This initiative is expected to serve as a model for scaling up food fortification across Cambodia’s food systems, advancing the country’s broader goals to reduce malnutrition and promote inclusive economic growth.

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The funding is part of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects and will be implemented by World Vision Japan through a project titled “Improve Primary Education Quality and Advance Children’s Learning and Teaching in Rural Cambodia (IMPACT).”

The grant agreement was signed on March, 25, 2026, between Japanese Ambassador H.E. UENO Atsushi and a representative of the implementing organization, Chiba Mina, Project Director of World Vision Japan, and a representative of Dr. Kann Puthy, Director of the Department of Primary Education of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports

According to the project details, the initiative aims to enhance learning outcomes among young children in rural areas of Kampong Thom by strengthening teaching quality and improving school environments. Key activities include training teachers in targeted schools, organizing remedial classes based on student assessments, and upgrading learning conditions to better support student development.

Underscoring Japan’s commitment to grassroots development, Ambassador Ueno Atsushi signed an agreement to provide US$490,000 in aid. These funds will enable World Vision Japan to implement life-changing initiatives for the people of Kampong Thom.

“World Vision Japan has been a steadfast partner since 1996, working across Cambodia to improve healthcare, education, and local economies. He expressed the Japanese government’s deep appreciation for the organization’s three decades of high-impact service to the Cambodian people. “ Ambassador Ueno added.

Education experts have long highlighted the importance of early primary education in shaping long-term academic success, particularly in rural communities where access to quality learning resources remains limited.

Japan has been a key development partner for Cambodia, especially in supporting education and community-based initiatives. Since the launch of the Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects in Cambodia in 2002, Japan has contributed more than US$60 million to over 170 projects across the country. These projects have focused on critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and mine clearance. The latest initiative underscores continued cooperation between Japan and Cambodia in promoting inclusive and equitable education for all children.

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The grant contract was signed today between H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Cambodia, and representatives of the recipient institutions of the Fund for International Development and Relief (FIDR). On the day of the signing, the ambassador said that the grant aid for Japanese NGOs began in 2002 to support Japanese NGOs in implementing their economic and social development projects in developing countries or regions.

“The Japanese government will provide approximately thirty-two hundred US dollars to FIDR for the implementation of its project in Kratie province. FIDR began medical cooperation in Cambodia in 1996 with the aim of establishing a pediatric surgical medical system. Since 2017, the organization has been working hard to strengthen and expand pediatric surgery in Kratie province, an important province in the northeast.” Ambassador UENO Atsushi​ said.

He added, “I hope that the project signed today will proceed smoothly and be successful in the future.”

The Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects started in Cambodia in 2002 to support activities by Japanese NGOs to help Cambodia’s reconstruction and development efforts at the grassroots level. Since 2002, the Government of Japan has provided over US$60 million for over 170 projects, mainly in the fields of primary education, health, agriculture, and mine clearance in Cambodia.

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The MoU was signed by H.E. Chhi Va, Governor of Koh Kong Province, and H.E. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia, with Chea Sovy, Deputy Governor, senior provincial and local authorities, and distinguished guests in attendance.

Under this project, a kindergarten with two classrooms and appropriate sanitation facilities will be constructed to provide a safe, inclusive, and stimulating early-learning environment for children aged three to five years in Phnhi Meas commune. The project aims to strengthen early childhood education and support the holistic development of young learners.

This initiative follows the successful e-inauguration of the pre- and post-partum maternity care center at Koh Sdach Communal Hospital, supported by the Government of India under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework. The maternity care center is already delivering improved maternal and child healthcare services to communities in and around Koh Sdach.

India’s development cooperation in Koh Kong Province also includes humanitarian mine action support. In 2023, the Embassy of India and the Cambodian Mine Action Authority signed a grant agreement to support mine clearance in several districts of Koh Kong. As a result, Botum Sakor and Sre Ambel districts have been declared mine-free, enhancing safety and livelihoods for local communities.

Cambodia is a key partner in India’s Act East Policy. Under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation framework, India supports ten Quick Impact Projects annually in Cambodia across sectors such as health, education, sanitation, agriculture, and women’s empowerment. To date, 70 QIPs have been supported, with 49 completed and 21 currently under implementation, in close coordination with the Royal Government of Cambodia.

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The grant contracts for the following two projects were signed today by H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Cambodia; Mr. Dim Ny, Deputy Governor of Mondulkiri Province; Mr. Kor Kim An, Director of the Mondulkiri Provincial Training Center; and Mr. Lay Sothy, Acting Director of the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology.

The total amount of US$220,216 (two hundred twenty thousand two hundred sixteen US dollars) will be provided to the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology for the Project for the Rehabilitation of Ou Srolao Chhrom Irrigation Facilities in Banteay Meanchey Province.

This grant will be used to rehabilitate existing irrigation facilities where reservoir functionality is currently inadequate. This area is drought-prone during the dry season because the irrigation infrastructure doesn’t capture and store an adequate amount of water during the rainy season. Moreover, there is no sluice gate in the most appropriate location for one.

This has made it more difficult to efficiently distribute water to agricultural fields. Through the improvement of irrigation facilities, the project is expected to secure a stable supply of agricultural water throughout the year and benefit more than 6,000 local residents, including those who have returned from Thailand as a result of the border conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand.

“This project will help secure reliable water for agriculture for around 6,000 people in six villages, boosting farm production and improving local livelihoods. It will also support agricultural jobs for Cambodians returning from Thailand amid the border situation,” said H.E. Mr. UENO Atsushi.

The total amount of US $81,688 (eighty-one thousand six hundred eighty-eight US dollars) will be provided to the Mondulkiri Provincial Training Center for the Project for the Construction of a Female Student Dormitory and the Installation of Vocational Training Equipment at the Mondulkiri Provincial Training Center.

This grant will be used to construct a dormitory for female students and provide vocational training equipment. The dormitory will provide female students with a comfortable place to stay, and the new equipment will give all of the students the opportunity to learn the kinds of vocational skills that will help them to find work after graduation. This project will, therefore, lead to an improvement in the standard of living for the residents in the area.

“The dormitory will provide female students with comfortable accommodation and equipment that will help them in their new life. It will also give all students the opportunity to learn professional skills and find employment after graduation.” The ambassador added.

Japan’s “KUSANONE” Projects started in Cambodia in 1991 with the aim of supporting Cambodia’s reconstruction and development at the grassroots level. The “KUSANONE” assistance projects aim to protect those who are vulnerable as a result of factors, such as poverty or misfortune, that are directly threatening their lives, livelihoods, and dignity.

The “KUSANONE” assistance also focuses on developing the self-reliance of local communities. Since 1991, the Government of Japan has provided over US$72 million, mainly to local authorities and non-governmental organizations, to assist them with the implementation of over 700 KUSANONE projects throughout Cambodia.

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The grant contract was signed today between H.E. Mr. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Cambodia, and the representative of the recipient, Mr. Suiyasu Masayuki, Project Director of JMAS, and Dr. Iranu Shigeki to carry out the following project.

H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Cambodia, stated that the Japanese government, including himself, welcomed the conclusion of the second ceasefire agreement between Cambodia and Thailand on December 27 and the return of 18 Cambodian soldiers on December 31, and Japan firmly hopes that the ceasefire agreement will be implemented in a timely manner. In addition, the Japanese government pledges to continue its efforts to promote the reduction of tensions by cooperating with relevant countries and providing various support.

He said that the grant aid for the Japanese NGOs project was launched in 2002 to support Japanese NGOs in implementing their economic and social development projects in developing countries or regions. Over the past 20 years, the Embassy of Japan has provided assistance to more than 160 projects in Cambodia through this programme, and these projects have directly contributed to improving the quality of life of the Cambodian people.

JMAS began supporting mine and unexploded ordnance clearance in Cambodia in 2002 and has since cleared many mines and unexploded ordnance in collaboration with the Cambodian Mine Action Center (CMAC). For the project signed today, JMAS will continue to clear cluster munitions in Stung Treng province, as well as provide disaster prevention education and agricultural assistance.

“We hope that this project will help reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by mines and unexploded ordnance, ensure the safety of people in those areas, and promote sustainable development in local communities,” the ambassador said.

“Furthermore, this effort will also contribute to achieving the elimination of cluster munitions, which is the goal of the Cambodian government,” he added.

In the second phase, Japan hopes that through human resource development and capacity building related to the clearance of unexploded ordnance, it will be possible to proceed more quickly and safely, not only in Stung Treng province, but also in other areas where unexploded ordnance remains.

In this project, JMAS will demine 170 ha of cluster munition contaminated areas while instructing the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) on efficient and safe cluster munition clearance methods. In addition, the project will provide not only landmine risk avoidance education for local residents but also agricultural technology and management for farmers.

The Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects started in Cambodia in 2002 to support activities by Japanese NGOs to help Cambodia’s reconstruction and development efforts at the grassroots level. Since 2002, the Government of Japan has provided over US$60 million for 170 projects, mainly in the fields of primary education, health, agriculture, and mine clearance in Cambodia.

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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

At the ceremony, Chargé Walker highlighted the meaning behind the 75th anniversary and the opening of the new space. “This center is more than a building—it is a gateway to new opportunities and a symbol of the enduring friendship between our two countries,” she said.

In her remarks, Chargé Walker underscored the role of Cambodia’s young people—who make up the majority of the population—in shaping the country’s future. Through programs focused on educational opportunities in the United States, entrepreneurship, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), English language learning, and civic participation, the United States aims to equip the next generation of Cambodians with tools to lead.

Partners from across government, academia, civil society, and the private sector assisted in bringing the new space to life. Hongkong Land, Starbucks, and Hard Rock Cafe, among others, contributed their support to the celebration and opening day events.

With over 700 locations in 140 countries, American Spaces are key touchpoints for millions of people globally, building connections between the United States and communities worldwide. The four American Spaces in Cambodia—AmCam Exchange in Phnom Penh and American Corners in Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampong Cham—engage with audiences to foster a greater understanding of the United States, connect and develop aspiring leaders, and offer gateways to U.S. exchange programs and information about studying in the United States. The EducationUSA Advising Center, located within the AmCam Exchange, offers students free, reliable guidance on studying at U.S. institutions.

With its modern design, expanded resources, and doubled capacity, AmCam Exchange, located on the ground floor of Exchange Square Mall, will continue serving as a hub for learning, innovation, and connection. As the United States and Cambodia reflect on 75 years of partnership, the center stands as a reminder that the strongest ties between nations are built through the everyday interactions of their peoples.

Photo: Supplied 

The Grant Contract was signed on December 16, 2025, between H.E. UENO Atsushi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom of Cambodia, and H.E. Mr. CHEA Somethy, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation.

The grant will be used to construct a shelter for female victims of human trafficking and build staff accommodation at the Kandal Steung Transit and Rehabilitation Center. These facilities will help to provide victims with safety and protection and will allow staff to deliver appropriate care services. It will support victims in vulnerable situations, either physically or mentally, in returning to their daily lives.

On the day of the signing of the grant agreement, H.E. Ueno Atsushi, Ambassador of Japan to Cambodia, expressed his interest “I am pleased to observe the rapid development in Cambodia recently. However, I also recognise that there are still some challenges that need to be addressed to improve the quality of life of the people. Therefore, Japan will continue to contribute to addressing these challenges through various official development assistance schemes, including the KUSANONE Project.”

Japan’s “KUSANONE” Projects started in Cambodia in 1991 in order to support Cambodia’s reconstruction and development at the grassroots level. The assistance aims to protect those who are vulnerable due to various factors such as poverty or misfortunes that directly threaten their lives, livelihood, and dignity, as well as to promote self-reliance of local communities.

Since 1991, the Government of Japan has provided over US$72 million for mainly local authorities and non-governmental organizations to implement over 700 KUSANONE projects throughout Cambodia.

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