Newsroom
What do Cambodia and Cyprus have in common?
On the surface, not much. One’s tucked in Southeast Asia, the other sits at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. But dig a little deeper, and you'll find that these two nations are quietly building one of the most promising business partnerships of tomorrow.
Cambodia is on the rise, and fast. With steady economic growth of over 5% a year, a young and ambitious population, and game-changing infrastructure projects like the Techo International Airport and the Funan Techo Canal, the Kingdom is quickly transforming into a regional logistics and trade hub in ASEAN. Add in its liberal business policies (think: 100% foreign ownership and access to the EU market through the Everything But Arms agreement), and you've got a recipe for serious investment potential.
For Cypriot entrepreneurs and companies, this is more than a passing opportunity; it’s a golden ticket into a vibrant, fast-growing market of over 600 million people.
So, what’s in it for Cyprus?
Plenty.
From agriculture and tourism to infrastructure, green energy, and logistics, Cambodia is actively seeking international expertise — and Cyprus has plenty of it. As His Excellency Salah Essa, Honorary Consul of Cyprus to Cambodia, puts it: “This partnership between Cambodia and Cyprus represents a fusion of ambition and opportunity. We’re building a transcontinental corridor of growth.”
That means Cypriot firms with know-how in construction, fintech, renewable energy, education, and hospitality have a chance to bring their skills to a booming Southeast Asian market, all while benefiting from Cambodia’s favorable tax laws and low operational costs.
And what does Cyprus offer Cambodia?
A gateway to Europe.
Thanks to its low corporate tax rate (just 12.5%), strong financial sector, and over 65 double tax treaties, Cyprus is a dream base for Cambodian companies wanting to reach European markets. Limassol Port’s maritime prowess and Cyprus’s reputation as a shipping and logistics hub make it even more attractive.
Together, the two nations can create a powerful East-West investment corridor, connecting European capital and expertise with ASEAN energy and growth.
What are the hot sectors?
• Infrastructure & logistics: As Cambodia builds new ports and canals, Cypriot companies could play a vital role in planning, development, and shipping services.
• Agriculture & food exports: With premium Cambodian products like Kampot pepper and fragrant rice in high demand, Cyprus can help channel them to the EU market.
• Hospitality & tourism: With new international airports opening, tourism is set to skyrocket in Cambodia, an area where Cypriot developers and investors could make their mark.
• Tech & digital innovation: Cambodia’s young population is digitally savvy. There’s growing room for collaboration on fintech, education, and startup development.
• Green energy: Cambodia is setting its sights on sustainability. Cyprus can offer real expertise in solar, wind, and energy efficiency projects.
An open door, for both sides
H.E. Salah Essa (Hon Consul of Cyprus in Cambodia) and Cambodia PM Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadhei Hun Manet
This isn’t just another distant trade story. It’s a real, tangible opportunity for Cypriot entrepreneurs looking to go global. The Honorary Consulate of Cyprus to Cambodia is already working to facilitate connections, business missions, and government support to make these ventures happen.
And this year marks a powerful symbol of just how far the partnership has come: on May 16th, 2025, the Honorary Consulate will host a special ceremony in Phnom Penh to celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Cyprus and the Kingdom of Cambodia. The milestone highlights not only the enduring friendship between the two nations but also the promise of what lies ahead.
As the world gets smaller and the East becomes more accessible, forward-thinking Cypriot businesses may just find their next big opportunity not across the street, but across the globe.
