New Lancang-Mekong Project Launched to Enhance MSME Productivity, Digital Transformation in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam
AKP Phnom Penh, May 08, 2026
The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) launched the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation project on May 8, 2026, aimed at strengthening productivity and digital adoption among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Vietnam, through regional policy support and knowledge sharing.
The launch ceremony, co-presided over by Minister Hem Vanndy and Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin, brought together participants from government institutions, embassies of Lao PDR and Vietnam, development partners and the private sector.
Speaking at the event, Minister Vanndy highlighted the important role of MSMEs as the backbone of Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam's national economies, serving not only as drivers of employment and income generation, but also innovation and inclusive development.
“In the context of a rapidly changing global economy, digital technology and innovation have become catalysts in determining the competitiveness of micro, small and medium enterprises, as well as the resilience of national and regional economies,” said the Minister.
Despite accounting for between 88.8 per cent and 99.9 per cent of enterprises across ASEAN, many MSMEs continue to face challenges, including low productivity, limited digital skills and access to digital technologies, and low adoption of emerging technologies.
Funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China through the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund, the 15-month project carries a budget of approximately USD 170,000 and focuses on strengthening MSME digital transformation across Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Vietnam, particularly among green, and women-led enterprises.
Ambassador Wang Wenbin noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation framework, which has become a model for regional development and cooperation.
“China stands ready to work with Mekong countries to strive for ‘LMC 2.0’, characterised by unity and cooperation, openness and win-win outcomes, green innovation, and peace and tranquility, and jointly usher in a new golden decade of Lancang-Mekong Cooperation,” he said.
Cambodia has been one of the beneficiaries of the cooperation, receiving 106 projects since 2017 under the Lancang-Mekong Leadership Cooperation Special Fund.
