Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth, Minister in charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, announced that Cambodia is strongly committed to accelerating the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA). This major regional initiative is expected to double the ASEAN digital economy from USD 1 trillion to USD 2 trillion by 2030.
The Minister delivered the remarks on Friday (Dec. 5) at the opening of the Digital Government Forum 2025, held under the theme “Accelerating Digital Future: Governance, Growth, and Global Partnerships.”
Doubling the Digital Economy: The $2 Trillion Target
The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to DEFA:
“Cambodia remains strongly committed to working with ASEAN Member States to advance the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), which is expected to increase the ASEAN digital economy from USD 1 trillion to USD 2 trillion by 2030.”
Aligning National Goals with ASEAN Digital Master Plan 2030
He highlighted that the Royal Government of Cambodia consistently welcomes cooperation in bilateral, multilateral, regional, and global frameworks to achieve both the National Digital Development Goals and broader regional objectives. These national goals align closely with the outcomes of the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (ADGMIN), particularly the formulation of the ASEAN Digital Master Plan 2030, and the ongoing review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20) report.
Digital Cooperation: A Crucial Opportunity in Global Uncertainty
Mr. Vongsey Vissoth noted that in an era of global fragmentation and heightened uncertainty, digital cooperation offers a crucial opportunity.
Such collaboration—between governments, the private sector, development partners, and among states—is vital. It strengthens friendships, addresses shared challenges, and generates mutual achievements for the benefit of all nations.
Forum Encourages Stronger Bilateral and Global Partnerships
The Deputy Prime Minister concluded by expressing his gratitude to friendly countries, development partners, and the private sector for their strong cooperation and contributions to the development of the digital sector in Cambodia and the region. He encouraged all forum participants to build and deepen their partnerships to secure a shared digital future.