Phnom penh: Cambodia exported garment, footwear, and travel products (GFT) worth US$15.7 billion in 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of 15.8 percent, according to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. The figures were shared by Minister H.E. Heng Sour during the 17th Conference of the Textile, Apparel, Footwear and Travel Goods Association of Cambodia (TAFTAC), held at the Royal Group Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone with approximately 300 participants.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Heng Sour emphasized TAFTAC's significant role as a reliable partner of the Royal Government, employers, and workers in negotiating and discussing tasks aimed at maintaining and expanding the sector. TAFTAC has been instrumental in the promotion of working conditions, welfare, and labour rights in Cambodia. Over the past 29 years, the association has protected and promoted the legitimate rights and interests of investors, creating forums for consultation and social dialogue to foster an investment environment conducive to export growth and sustainable development.
As of 2025, the number of factories, enterprises, and establishments registered with the Ministry increased to 46,649, with the workforce rising to 2.14 million. The GFT industry remains Cambodia's largest foreign exchange earner, accounting for 50 percent of the Kingdom's total export value during the period.
H.E. Heng Sour conveyed that the new leadership will enable the Association to continue its strong spirit of solidarity, becoming a driving force in attracting new investors and boosting confidence among existing investors. This mandate aims to bring direct benefits to employers and employees through job creation and income generation, contributing significantly to maintaining macroeconomic stability and diversifying Cambodia's industrial structure in line with the Royal Government's long-term vision.
The Minister further urged TAFTAC to enhance membership trust through transparency, accountability, efficiency, and professionalism. He encouraged continued promotion of priority work in collaboration with the ILO-BFC project and participation in the 'One Enterprise as One Peaceful Community' campaign to strengthen compliance and professional relationship harmonization.