Cambodia factory count surpasses 47K in early 2026

Cambodia factory count surpasses 47K in early 2026

Factory expansion provides better employment opportunities and strengthens workers’ income.

Cambodia factory count rises to more than 47,000, creating over 70,000 new jobs as of the first quarter of 2026, according to a recent government press announcement.

The number of factories and enterprises in Cambodia has risen to 47,029 from 6,649 enterprise record last year, an increase of 380 enterprises. The total employment reached 2.3 million, up 100,000 from over 2.2 million last year.

Sun Mesa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT), indicated that the figure reflected continued expansion in the country’s industrial and export-driven manufacturing sectors.

This growth resulted from continued investment inflows, political stability, and a favourable business environment, with garment, footwear, and travel goods being the significant employers.

According to the MLV, the factory expansion provides better employment opportunities and strengthens worker income. This growth is occurring despite external economic pressures, demonstrating resilience in the Kingdom’s industrial base.

The growth in factories has provided tens of thousands of employment opportunities, contributing to improved labour market conditions and increased competition for workers, which could lead to better wages and benefits.

Union leaders described the rise as a good signal for Cambodia’s economic development, emphasising that continued investment inflows demonstrate investor confidence in the Kingdom’s political stability and investment climate.

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