AKP Phnom Penh, March 21, 2025 --

H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, on Wednesday welcomed a delegation from the Togolese Republic, led by H.E. Prof. Komlan Edo Robert DUSSEY, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Togolese Abroad, to discuss enhancing bilateral relations and industrial collaboration.

According to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI), during the meeting, H.E. Prof. DUSSEY praised Cambodia’s industrial development and trade performance, highlighting Cambodia's exports to the U.S. as a model for Togo. “Our visit would not be complete without this courtesy call to MISTI. We aim to understand Cambodia’s success in attracting investment and boosting exports,” he said.

H.E. Hem Vanndy attributed Cambodia’s industrial progress to the peace and stability achieved through the Win-Win Policy in 1998, which opened the nation to global trade after years of isolation and economic sanctions. He noted that initial development phases focused on building infrastructure such as roads, bridges and power grids to enhance trade and create a business-friendly environment.

He emphasised Cambodia’s liberal investment regime, which allows 100 percent foreign ownership, repatriation of capital gains, tax incentives, and strong public-private partnerships, such as a parallel financing model for skills training.

The discussion also covered Cambodia’s approach to industrial relations, including its minimum wage mechanism and the ILO-initiated Better Factories project, which have improved labour conditions and bolstered investor confidence.

H.E. Prof. DUSSEY acknowledged Cambodia’s achievements, noting that the ILO Secretary-General, a Togolese national, speaks highly of the country’s industrial relations.

The delegation presented Togo’s Free Zone Roadmap, which outlines key industries such as automotive, agro-processing and textiles, supported by seaports and dry ports to facilitate trade. They proposed to further cooperation with Cambodia through an agreement.

H.E. Hem Vanndy welcomed the opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly in industrial development and investment promotion. He also noted that Cambodia will host the Francophonie Summit in Siem Reap next year, presenting another platform to deepen engagement between the two nations.

AKP