Phnom Penh:The Royal Government of Cambodia and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) have launched the second Programme for Country Partnership (PCP-II) for the period 2026-2028. This initiative aims to strengthen Cambodia's industrial competitiveness, productivity, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the formal launch took place at the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI), with Minister H.E. Hem Vanndy present, while UNIDO Director General H.E. Gerd Mller participated virtually from Vienna, Austria. The event also included the announcement of the National Coordination Body, which will oversee the implementation and provide strategic guidance for the program.
Minister H.E. Hem Vanndy highlighted the necessity of enhancing Cambodia's productive capabilities, diversifying its industrial base, and enabling domestic enterprises to engage in higher-value activities, especially as the country approaches graduation from its Least Developed Country (LDC) status by the end of 2029. He stressed the need for stronger industrial capabilities, competitive enterprises, and greater opportunities for Cambodian businesses in regional and global value chains. He noted the importance of partnerships with organizations like UNIDO for providing technical expertise, technology, and investment to support these goals.
UNIDO Director General H.E. Gerd Mller reaffirmed UNIDO's commitment to Cambodia's development priorities, stating that the launch of PCP-II marks a significant milestone in the longstanding partnership with Cambodia. The program will focus on inclusive and sustainable industrial development by promoting innovation, enterprise competitiveness, green industrial transformation, and partnerships that contribute to Cambodia's economic prosperity.
PCP-II builds on the first Programme for Country Partnership, with a focus on improving industrial productivity and competitiveness, particularly in agro-industry and manufacturing. It aims to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), promote innovation and higher-value production, and advance industrial decarbonisation, energy transition, and circular economy practices. The program aligns with Cambodia's national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2024-2028 and is expected to aid Cambodia's preparations for LDC graduation.