PHNOM PENH – Businesses or investments in Kratie, Stung Treng, Mondulkiri and Ratanakkiri with $100,000 or more in capital can apply for “Qualified Investment Project (QIP)” status.  

This is part of the government’s Northeastern Special Program to promote investment in these provinces from 2025 to 2028.

Hean Sahib, chairman of the Northeast Investment Promotion Working Group, said the program focuses on promoting agricultural, agro-industrial land, the processing of products and tourism services.

He said the conflict along the border with Thailand has caused problems for supply chains and production. It has affected jobs, reduced demand for consumer goods and disrupted imports and exports. 

“This is especially true for raw materials used in local production, which may lead people to rely more on domestic products,” Sahib said.

He told the working group to keep working closely to study in depth potential locations, investment opportunities and problem solutions as a basis for providing information, consulting and dissemination to investors.

Nhem Sam Oeun, Governor of Ratanakiri province, said provincial authorities have an important role in this program.

“We are committed to working with ministries and the Northeast Investment Promotion Working Group to address issues and promote investment in Ratanakkiri province in line with the government’s goals,” he said.

A sub-decree signed by Prime Minister Hun Manet on June 6 says all investment projects or businesses registered as QIPs under Article 4 will receive incentives according to investment laws and regulations. 

They will also benefit from Decision No. 28, dated February 27, which implements a special program to promote investment in the four provinces from 2025 to 2028.

The Northeast Investment Promotion Working Group was created under the Economic and Financial Policy Committee to lead and coordinate the program, which started in April. 

The program aims to boost private investment, create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and attract more people to live and do business in the region.