by Beyond Realty 
In a strategic move to bolster Cambodia’s economic and real estate sectors, Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul urged local enterprises to leverage digital platforms to expand their market reach. Speaking at the seminar ‘Beyond Borders: Bringing Cambodian Products to the Global Market through Alibaba.com,’ Nimul highlighted the pivotal role of e-commerce in transforming the national economy.
Held at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, the seminar brought together influential figures, including Dr. Tan Monivann, Vice President of Mong Reththy Group Co Ltd, representatives from Alibaba Group, and officials from the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC). The event underscored the potential of digital trade to elevate Cambodian products onto the global stage.
Minister Nimul revealed that ten Khmer companies had already made their mark on Alibaba, showcasing the initial success of the initiative. However, her vision extends beyond these early achievements. She aims to exponentially increase participation, envisioning a future where twice or thrice as many Cambodian enterprises capitalize on the platform within the coming months.
“Utilizing online platforms like Alibaba, Cambodia can significantly enhance its export capabilities, boost competitiveness, and diversify its economy into international markets,” Nimul stated. She emphasized that such digital avenues would not only increase exports but also strengthen Cambodia’s economic reputation globally(see: https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/cambodia/overview).
To facilitate this ambitious expansion, Nimul presented a strategic five-point plan:
- Educational Resources: Develop comprehensive guidelines and instructional videos to simplify Alibaba.com for SMEs, ensuring ease of use and accessibility.
- Quality Standards: Foster collaboration among business owners to meet international quality standards and streamline export mechanisms.
- Market Analysis: Partner with Alibaba.com to monitor and analyze market trends, helping local businesses understand and meet global demand.
- Training Programs: Disseminate training and technical advice to assist Khmer businesses in navigating and thriving on digital platforms.
- Collaborative Promotion: Encourage joint efforts between local and international ministries, institutions, and the private sector to enhance trade and business in Cambodia.
Lor Vichet, Vice President of the Cambodia Chinese Commerce Association, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the convenience and expansive reach that Alibaba.com provides. “This e-trade platform offers a seamless avenue for Cambodia’s manufacturers and exporters to tap into the Chinese market and beyond, thus expanding their regional presence,” he said.
The benefits extend to consumers, who gain access to a wider array of products and the ability to compare prices and quality before making purchases.
The seminar also featured key industry leaders, including Ly Kun Thai of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Lim Bunsour from the Foreign Trade Bank of Cambodia, Chan Sokheang of Bayon Heritage Holding Group, By Sokbundith from the Association of Khmer-International Investors, and Por Chou of Allcon Consulting. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort needed to drive Cambodia’s economy forward through digital innovation and global trade integration.
