The Textile Summit in Cambodia charts the course towards a sustainable and competitive future

In early April, Phnom Penh hosted the first Cambodia 2025 Global Textile Summit, bringing together government representatives, industry leaders, international brands and workers' organisations to discuss the future of the vital clothing, footwear and travel goods (CFTG) sector in Cambodia.

The summit emphasised Cambodia's commitment to sustainability and competitiveness as the industry emerges from its status as a least developed country (LDC).

A collaborative platform for progress

Organised by TAFTAC, Better Factories Cambodia, EuroCham Cambodia and GIZ, with the support of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MoLVT), the summit provided a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue. The main topics discussed were sustainable production practices, regulatory frameworks and workforce development. Prominent speakers such as H.E. Sun Chanthol, Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister, emphasised the importance of aligning industrial strategies with global market demands.

Private sector commitment

Major sponsors such as Wing Bank, Dakota Group and GOLDFAME Group demonstrated their commitment to transforming Cambodia's textile and clothing sector. Wing Bank emphasised the role of digital banking in improving the financial resilience of businesses and workers. Dakota Group emphasised the importance of investment in technology and upskilling of the workforce to ensure sustainability. Meanwhile, GOLDFAME Group has shown leadership in environmentally friendly production through its integrated facilities.

Sustainability at the forefront

Cambodia's textile industry accounts for 70% of its exports, but faces challenges such as environmental degradation and resource inefficiency. Initiatives such as the Circular Fashion Partnership aim to recycle post-industrial textile waste while promoting sustainable materials such as organic cotton and recycled polyester. These efforts are part of the global trend towards ethical fashion and environmentally friendly supply chain practices.

Concrete results

The summit concluded with commitments to strengthen Cambodia's position in global supply chains through the adoption of renewable energy, circular economy projects and ethical sourcing practices. The stakeholders agreed on the need to improve social and environmental performance to ensure long-term growth.

Cambodia's textile sector is at a crossroads, ready to embrace sustainable development while remaining competitive on the world stage.