The Cambodian government plans to launch a new development strategy to transform its garment trade into a dynamic, diversified, high-value and competitive sector, says Phan Phalla, Secretary of State, Ministry of Economy.

Phalla adds, the sector can produce better goods and command higher prices by upskilling workers. Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Secretary of State, Ministry of Finance adds, to achieve significant growth for the economy, the garment sector needs to implement the development strategy. The strategy will also help increase the number of domestic investors, he adds.

Kaing Monika, Deputy Secretary General, Garment Manufacturers Association says, the strategy can serve as a clear roadmap for the sector on how to retain its competitive edge. It should emphasize on the labor sector and focus on improving workers’ well-being, productivity, professional relations and skills development, he adds.

Cambodia exported nearly $8.83 billion worth of garments, footwear and travel goods in the first 10 months of 2021, up by more than a tenth year-on-year, according to data posted by GMAC. Broken down by category, exports of garments, footwear and travel goods totaled $6.538 billion, $1.113 billion and $1.179 billion, respectively.