Phnom Penh:A senior official from the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) has called on the operator of a major special economic zone (SEZ) to invest in the processing of high-potential local agricultural products. This move aims to enhance domestic added value, generate employment, expand exports, and fully utilize the country's agricultural resources.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Cambodian Investment Board (CIB) under the CDC, made this request during a meeting at the CDC headquarters. The meeting took place with a delegation from the Royal Group Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone (SEZ), led by Chief Executive Officer Mr. Hiroshi Uematsu.

During the meeting, Mr. Uematsu expressed his gratitude towards the CDC and relevant Royal Government agencies for their ongoing support of the company's business activities. He particularly noted the Secretary General's dedication to the development of the Royal Group Phnom Penh SEZ.

Mr. Uematsu reported on the progress of the economic zone, highlighting steady export growth and upcoming celebrations for its 20th anniversary. He mentioned that the SEZ has been instrumental in attracting foreign investment and driving Cambodia's economic activities. Additionally, he revealed plans to develop a new special economic zone in Kampong Thom province.

H.E. Chea Vuthy praised the development progress of the Royal Group Phnom Penh SEZ and encouraged the company to expedite plans for the new Kampong Thom zone. This follows a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the Kampong Thom Provincial Administration to expand investment activities and support socio-economic development.

Furthermore, H.E. Chea Vuthy suggested that the company consider investing in the planted timber industry to supply raw materials for furniture and plywood manufacturing, citing an increasing demand in the present and future markets.