Phnom Penh:Cambodian Women Entrepreneurs Day 2026 underscored the importance of access to finance, technology, and markets as crucial avenues for the expansion of women-led businesses, which are instrumental in job creation and the economic diversification of Cambodia.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the event was organized by the Cambodia Women Entrepreneurs Association (CWEA) under the theme 'Women Powering Sustainable Growth.' It also featured the Outstanding Women Entrepreneur Awards, which recognized achievements in business leadership, innovation, and job creation.

During the opening ceremony, H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, highlighted the need for coordinated support that addresses the practical needs of women entrepreneurs, facilitating their enterprises to become more productive and competitive. He emphasized the goal of strengthening the capacity of women-led enterprises to grow, increase productivity, add value, and participate more actively in competitive economic activities.

As of September 2026, the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation recorded 44,053 registered small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and handicraft establishments, with 9,046 being operated by women entrepreneurs, accounting for about 20.5 percent of the total. H.E. Chan Pheary, President of CWEA, stressed that sustainable development of women's entrepreneurship requires an enabling policy environment, equitable access to resources, and partnerships between government and the private sector.

The National Strategy on the Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises 2026-2030 aims to coordinate support from government, the private sector, and development partners to help businesses, including those led by women, reduce barriers, enhance skills and productive capacity, adopt technology and innovation, and expand access to finance and markets.

H.E. Hem Vanndy also pointed out the importance of standards, product testing, and better packaging to build consumer confidence and meet buyers' requirements. He advocated for stronger links between women-led enterprises, larger companies, and distributors, along with more efficient resource use and waste reduction. The Minister urged CWEA to continue representing members' needs and connecting them with technical assistance, financing, and business networks.