Deepening Economic Ties: Vietnam–Cambodia Business Matching Event 2025

By Dr. Duong Van Thinh, Researcher | VP, AI Technology at Veron Group

On July 17, 2025, the Cambodian Trade Office in Ho Chi Minh City hosted a high-impact Vietnam–Cambodia Business Matching event, bringing together more than 60 companies from both nations. Organized under the leadership of Mr. Hor Dareth, Commercial Attaché of the Cambodian Embassy in Vietnam, and Mr. Thon Bunheng, Assistant Commercial Attaché, the event was held with the goal of deepening economic ties, accelerating investment, and fostering new forms of cross-border collaboration.

As Vietnam and Cambodia continue to expand their trade and economic relationship, the timing of this event was significant. In the first half of 2025, bilateral trade between the two countries reached approximately USD 6.2 billion, marking a 16.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Vietnam’s exports to Cambodia accounted for USD 2.7 billion, growing by 4.6% year-over-year. These numbers reflect a robust momentum, underscoring both countries’ commitment to deepening regional integration.

Looking ahead, the governments of Vietnam and Cambodia have jointly signed a 2025–2026 Trade Facilitation Agreement, aiming to boost bilateral trade to USD 20 billion. The agreement focuses on key growth enablers including:

• Cross-border trade development

• Preferential tariff frameworks

• Integrated supply chains

• Logistics infrastructure upgrades

• Product diversification across industries

The business matching event served as a practical platform for companies to network, present their business ambitions, and build lasting partnerships. A wide range of sectors was represented, from manufacturing and food processing to construction materials and technology. Notable Vietnamese firms included Tan Hiep Hung Plastics, ACE Foods, Uy Phat Company, Ba Dinh Cement, EL A.C.M, and VNFT Group, among others.

Representatives from these companies actively shared their strategic outlook and expansion plans for the Cambodian market. Tan Hiep Hung Plastics, in particular, highlighted their long-term vision to strengthen presence in Cambodia through local partnerships, supply chain investment, and a strong commitment to sustainability and product innovation.

In parallel, Veron Academy, the training and innovation arm of Veron Group, introduced its latest digital trade tools: AI for Business and AI Agents. These technologies are designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in navigating international trade more effectively. Key functions include:

• Market research automation

• Intelligent business partner matching

• Multilingual communication via real-time AI translation

• Regulatory and customs advisory powered by AI

These tools enable faster deal-making, smarter decision-making, and more inclusive access to opportunities in markets like Cambodia. Veron Academy’s presentation generated strong interest among both Vietnamese and Cambodian business delegates, many of whom expressed a desire to integrate digital transformation into their cross-border strategies.

Throughout the event, companies exchanged insights on industry trends, regulatory environments, and investment opportunities. Sectors with growing potential include plastics manufacturing, agribusiness, logistics, cement, processed foods, and packaging. Beyond trade, many participants spoke about the value of long-term partnerships that prioritize sustainability, resilience, and cultural understanding.

The event concluded with a spirit of optimism and mutual respect. As AI technologies and regional agreements align, and as private enterprises take proactive roles in shaping the future, the Vietnam–Cambodia partnership is poised to enter a new phase of connectivity, innovation, and shared prosperity.