Cambodian Online
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Investing in Cambodia

 Information

31-Aug-2005
Last Edited

• Connections are important in Cambodia.  You should try to find someone to introduce you before attempting to make contact with the government or a company. 
• Begin with the diplomatic and trade missions in your home country, if there are any.  Well known foreign companies are less likely to need introductions.  Most of the current business interests in the country tend to be large consortiums dominated by Southeast Asian enterprises focusing on infrastructure projects.
• Only the senior officials have authority.  As a result, you should try to meet with the senior most person possible.  If your project is a large one, it is advisable to meet with the government minister first, who will then direct you to those people positioned to carry out the mechanics of the deal.  If you are dealing with senior level officials who are Western educated, their attitudes and responses may be somewhat more predictable and familiar.
• In general, Cambodians welcome foreign business people. Once you establish a presence in Cambodia, local representatives or partners are needed to keep your business interests alive and conduct business on your behalf. 
• Foreigners who show an interest in developing long-term relationships will have an advantage in gaining trust from the Cambodians.  Once the Cambodians trust you, they tend to be loyal and valuable friends. Incorporating a training element for local employees into any contract will be popular because the government is focused on developing the skills of its labor force.
• When you are in Cambodia, you may need to hire an interpreter who can also function as your guide.