The International Business Chamber of Cambodia (IBC) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on March 12, 2025, at Rosewood Phnom Penh, marking another year of progress and financial resilience. The chamber, which has been a key advocate for Cambodia’s international business community for over 30 years, highlighted its achievements in membership growth, strategic initiatives, and financial performance in 2024.
Membership Growth and Industry Engagement
IBC expanded its membership base to 142 members across 20 countries, representing 12 industries. This growth underscores the chamber’s role as a key platform for both international and locally owned businesses operating in Cambodia. The increase in membership was attributed to the success of IBC’s working groups, the executive team’s outreach efforts, and enhanced networking opportunities.
Working groups focused on education, health, road safety, supply chains, and corporate governance played a significant role in shaping policies and improving business operations. The Education Working Group, led by Gabriel Helmy, successfully hosted two education-private sector forums, addressing critical skill gaps in Cambodia’s workforce. Meanwhile, the Health Working Group, chaired by Pauline Tan, organized multiple industry events, including a Health and Wellness Seminar, to promote healthcare accessibility and awareness.
The Supply Chain Working Group, chaired by Parth Borkotoky held a Seminar on Carbon & Supply Chains and held a number of networking events, whilst also being a business leader and attending events such as the “Operations Manual for the Implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change in Cambodia”
Another area for focus was the Cambodian Institute of Directors which has ramped up it’s offerings this year. Under the chair of Trevor Sworn, 2024 proved to be a fruitful year with many workshops, and webinars on corporate governance, and the start of the Certified Directors Course designed to provide leaders, directors and managers with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership, meeting internationally recognised governance standards.
Financial Performance
In 2024, IBC recorded:
- Revenue: $195,346
- Expenses: $190,008
- Operating Surplus: $5,338
For 2025, IBC anticipates:
- Revenue: $257,910
- Expenses: Projected to increase in line with expanded activities
- Operating Surplus: Expected to remain stable with continued membership growth and sponsorship support
Strategic Initiatives and Industry Collaboration
IBC continued to implement its “IBC 2.0 – 2020 and Beyond” strategy, aimed at integrating Cambodia’s international business community and improving collaboration with the Royal Government. The chamber played an active role in private sector advocacy, particularly through the Government-Private Sector Forum (GPSF), where it engaged in discussions on taxation, investment regulations, and governance improvements.
As part of its regional engagement efforts, IBC strengthened its relationship with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and participated in the Cambodia-ASEAN Business Summit. The chamber also hosted trade and investment delegation visits, reinforcing Cambodia’s position as a growing hub for foreign investment.
Looking ahead, IBC plans to expand its working groups, increase engagement with policymakers, and continue advocating for a more business-friendly environment in Cambodia. The chamber remains committed to driving trade and investment opportunities while providing a platform for businesses to thrive.
New Executive Committee and Board Members
The AGM concluded with the election of new Executive Committee members and a renewed commitment to supporting the business community in Cambodia. Four key board seats were filled by:
- Mr. James Roberts, Partner Advisory, KPMG Cambodia (re-elected)
- Mrs. Cécile Dahomé, Chief Executive Officer, Sevea Consulting
- Mr. Sothearoath Oeur, Chief Executive Officer, Credit Bureau Cambodia
- Mr. Tola Ponlu, Chief Executive Officer, Prudential Cambodia
These newly elected members will replace outgoing members:
- Mr. Daren Ong, Managing Director, Pernod Ricard Cambodge
- Ms. Paula Nicolas, Cambodia Country Head at Talentnet Cambodia Company Limited
- Ms. Evangeline Liu, General Manager, Jardine Schindler (Cambodia) Ltd.
As IBC moves forward into 2025, its focus remains on strengthening partnerships, ensuring financial sustainability, and delivering impactful business initiatives.
