Cambodia’s $15.5 Billion Textile Sector Eyes Expansion Through New South Korean Partnership

Sok Sabay — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 11:59:37 +0000

PHNOM PENH — Cambodia’s industrial engine is picking up speed in 2026. On Thursday, leadership from the Textile, Apparel, Footwear & Travel Goods Association of Cambodia (TAFTAC) met with the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) to finalize new strategies for trade promotion and industrial training.

The meeting underscores a period of explosive growth for the Kingdom. Recent data reveals that Cambodia’s Garment, Footwear, and Travel goods (GFT) exports soared to US$15.52 billion in 2025, marking a massive 15.7% increase over the previous year.

Driving Global Competitiveness During the high-level talks, TAFTAC Deputy Chairman Robert Hwang and Assistant Secretary-General Ly Tekheng outlined the government’s commitment to making Cambodia a premier global manufacturing hub. Key focus areas for the new partnership include:

Investment Forums: Coordinating business exchange visits between Phnom Penh and Seoul.
Sustainability & Logistics: Improving trade facilitation and “green” manufacturing to meet Western brand standards.
Human Resource Development: Launching specialized training programs to modernize the Cambodian workforce.

A Gold Standard for International Investors KOTRA’s Deputy Director General, Ms. Jangog Youn, praised TAFTAC for its professional structure and open-door policy for international investors. This endorsement from a major South Korean agency sends a strong signal to the global market: Cambodia is a stable, professional, and highly profitable destination for capital.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, the GFT sector now accounts for roughly 50 percent of Cambodia’s total exports, serving as the primary driver of foreign currency and national economic stability in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much did Cambodia export in the garment and footwear sector in 2025?

Cambodia’s GFT (Garment, Footwear, and Travel goods) exports reached a record-breaking US$15.52 billion, growing by 15.7% compared to 2024.

What is the role of TAFTAC in Cambodia’s economy?

TAFTAC is the leading professional association representing over 40 member factories. It works closely with the government to improve trade facilitation, logistics, and labor training for international export markets.

How is South Korea involved in Cambodia’s industrial growth?

Through agencies like KOTRA, South Korea provides investment, coordinates business forums, and helps Cambodian products reach international markets, further strengthening the bilateral Strategic Partnership.

Is Cambodia a good destination for foreign manufacturing investment?

Yes. With a 50% share of national exports coming from the GFT sector and strong government support for trade facilitation, Cambodia offers a competitive and stable environment for global manufacturing.

The post Cambodia’s $15.5 Billion Textile Sector Eyes Expansion Through New South Korean Partnership appeared first on ORKUN SANTEPHEAP.

KOTRA Archives - ORKUN SANTEPHEAP

Cambodia’s $15.5 Billion Textile Sector Eyes Expansion Through New South Korean Partnership

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)