Cambodia and China initiate '2+2' strategic talks

Cambodia and China initiate '2+2' strategic talks On April 22-23, 2026, Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated a high-level "2+2" Strategic Dialogue with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun. This new diplomatic format aims to deepen the "ironclad" friendship and all-weather community with a shared future. Discussions focused on regional stability, infrastructure investment, and expanded cooperation in clean energy, agriculture, and defense. Mr. Hun Manet reaffirmed the One China policy and expressed gratitude for Beijing's socio-economic and medical support. Addressing regional security, he emphasized Cambodia's commitment to resolving border issues peacefully through international law. This dialogue reinforces the bilateral partnership as a cornerstone of Southeast Asian diplomacy and a driver for Cambodia's long-term development goals. (Source: Khmer Times)

Cambodia's trade with RCEP reaches $11 billion in the first quarter Cambodia's trade within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) surged to $11.26 billion in Q1 2026, an 18.5% YoY increase. RCEP remains the Kingdom's primary trade engine, accounting for 64% of its total trade volume. While exports grew by 4.2% YoY to $2.82 billion, imports climbed significantly by 24.2% YoY to $8.44 billion, primarily from top partners like China, Vietnam, and Singapore. Ministry of Commerce officials highlight RCEP as a magnet for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and a driver for long-term growth. However, experts caution that the widening trade deficit suggests a reliance on imported inputs for assembly. To transition into a high-value producer, Cambodia must prioritize logistics, digitalization, and industrial upskilling. (Source: Khmer Times)

Rottanak inaugurates a gold refinery factory in Kampong Thom Cambodian K88 Industry Co., Ltd, a Chinese-backed investment, officially inaugurated its $40 million gold refinery yesterday on the border of Kampong Thom and Kratie. This facility marks the seventh refinery in the Kingdom, creating 375 local jobs. Minister Keo Rottanak highlighted the project's adherence to global health, safety, and environmental standards while contributing to national industrial expansion. Since 2021, Cambodia has produced nearly 18 metric tonnes of gold, with mining royalties surging to $135.5 million in 2025. This growth reflects the sector's evolution into a vital revenue stream. As the government prioritizes mineral resource management, such projects reinforce Cambodia's capacity to transform raw materials into high-value exports, supporting broader socio-economic development. (Source: Khmer Times)