Cambodian leaders back $10 million local tablet manufacturing project

Cambodian leaders back $10 million local tablet manufacturing project

Prime Minister Hun Manet and senior government officials have lent their support to a new domestic technology venture as a Cambodian entrepreneur prepares to launch the kingdom’s first locally branded tablet computers.

Sam Soknoeun, president of KH Haitech and the SAM SN Group, showcased the company’s new devices during the ASEAN-Cambodia Business Summit 2026, held in Phnom Penh on March 4. Under the prime minister’s chairmanship, the summit served as a platform for the firm to present its ambitious plans to establish an electronic device assembly factory in Cambodia.

During a visit to the company’s exhibition stand, Mr Hun Manet encouraged the firm to speed up its manufacturing plans. The prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs who develop “Khmer-brand” products, viewing the initiative as a significant step towards the country’s digital transformation.

Soknoeun also expressed his gratitude to Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many and Labour and Vocational Training Minister Heng Sour for their visits to the exhibition. He said that recognition from top leaders has given a significant boost to his efforts to establish a domestic production base.

The project involves a planned investment of approximately $10 million to establish the assembly facility. The initiative aligns with Cambodia’s Industry 4.0 goals and aims to bridge the digital divide by offering affordable technology to the domestic market.

Although the tablets will operate under a Cambodian brand rather than a foreign franchise, the company will utilise technology from Haitech, a subsidiary of the international electronics giant Haier Group.

Soknoeun said the initiative is primarily driven by the rising demand for digital tools in Cambodia, especially among students.

The factory’s initial phase is expected to produce around 10,000 units, specifically designed to be accessible to students and workers in the informal economy who need affordable devices for online learning and digital engagement.

The entrepreneur said that the project aims to foster national pride through technology that is “Made in Cambodia.” By establishing a local manufacturing presence, the company hopes to reduce reliance on imported electronics and create skilled employment opportunities in the burgeoning technology sector.

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