On January 12, 2026, Cambodia marked a major milestone in its industrial diversification with the inauguration of the Wanli Tire (Cambodia) Co., Ltd. manufacturing facility. Located in the Xin Bavet Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Svay Rieng province, the plant was officially opened by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister. This investment is a key pillar of the “Diamond Hexagon” cooperation between Cambodia and China, signaling the Kingdom’s rapid transition from garment assembly to high-tech automotive component manufacturing.
1. Wanli Tire: A Boost for Svay Rieng’s Economy
The facility represents one of the largest industrial investments in the border province of Svay Rieng this year, further solidifying the region’s status as a manufacturing powerhouse.
- Location: Xin Bavet Special Economic Zone, Chantrea District.
- Technology: The plant utilizes automated production lines and advanced safety systems to meet international standards for Western and regional markets.
- Strategic Goal: Transitioning the Cambodian workforce from labor-intensive roles to high-skill technical manufacturing.
2. The “Diamond Hexagon” & Ironclad Friendship
During the ceremony, H.E. Sun Chanthol highlighted that this project is more than just a factory—it is a symbol of the Cambodia-China Ironclad Friendship.
- Export Potential: The plant will significantly boost the “Made in Cambodia” brand globally, particularly in the automotive sector.
- Investor Confidence: Officials noted that Wanli Tire’s decision to invest reflects high trust in the political stability and pro-business reforms led by Prime Minister Hun Manet.
- Economic Integration: The facility helps Cambodia move further up the global value chain, moving beyond basic textiles into complex industrial goods.
3. Why SEZs are Winning in 2026
The success of the Wanli Tire plant underscores the effectiveness of Cambodia’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs). In 2026, these zones offer:
- Tax Incentives: Long-term corporate income tax holidays and VAT exemptions.
- Streamlined Procedures: “One-stop” administrative services through the CDC.
- Logistics: Strategic proximity to the Vietnamese border and improved road networks.
The Tire Industry Boom
Svay Rieng is quickly becoming the “Tire Capital” of ASEAN. With several major Chinese tire manufacturers now operating in the province, Cambodia is effectively turning its raw rubber production (from provinces like Mondulkiri) into high-value finished exports. This “closed-loop” economy—growing the rubber and manufacturing the tires domestically—is exactly what the SPIN Programme and CDC have been aiming for.
Recommended Reading
- ASEAN Trade Surge: Cambodia’s Exports Hit $5.67 Billion – See how automotive parts are contributing to these record trade numbers.
- Cambodia’s Record-Breaking $10 Billion Investment Surge – A broader look at the 630 projects approved by the CDC.
FAQ
- Where is the new Wanli Tire factory located? It is located in the Xin Bavet Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the Chantrea district of Svay Rieng province.
- What is the “Diamond Hexagon” framework? It is a strategic cooperation framework between Cambodia and China focusing on six priority areas, including industrial development and energy.
- How will this factory benefit Cambodian workers? It introduces advanced automation and high-skill manufacturing roles, providing better wages and technical training.
- Which markets will the tires be exported to? The facility aims to export tires to both regional (ASEAN) and Western markets, including Europe and the US.
- Who inaugurated the factory? The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC).