Minister of Commerce Pan Sorasak called on all relevant parties to cooperate in exploring the feasibility of establishing a free trade agreement (FTA) between Cambodia and Japan, driven by a significant increase in Cambodian exports to Japan this year. 

Speaking at a trade facilitation and digitalization seminar attended by business leaders from both nations, the minister emphasized the need to strengthen the full implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (AJCEP). 

He encouraged the chambers of commerce in both countries to consider signing a memorandum of understanding to enhance economic, trade, and investment cooperation. With Cambodia's exports to Japan reaching $442 million in the first five months of this year, the minister highlighted the potential FTA's benefits in expanding market access, driving economic development, and generating income and employment opportunities. Cambodia currently holds bilateral FTAs with China and South Korea, and recently announced a Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates. Prime Minister Hun Sen also praised the growing trade relationship with Japan, emphasizing its significance as the largest buyer of Cambodian goods. 

The countries are celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2023, marking a new era of a comprehensive strategic partnership that is expected to attract more Japanese investment and create a broader market for Cambodian products. 

In a meeting with the Japanese ambassador, the Minister of Tourism emphasized the importance of resuming flights by All Nippon Airways to facilitate bilateral trade. 

The Cambodia Chamber of Commerce plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with its Japanese counterpart to further strengthen investment and trade ties.