The Fourth Think Tank High-Level Forum, held this week in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, reinforced this trajectory, highlighting Cambodia’s deep commitment to China-led initiatives.
While Chinese investments bring infrastructure, industrialization, and modernization, they are also seen as deepening Cambodia’s economic dependence on Beijing.
The key tension is whether Cambodia is leveraging China’s rise for its own benefit or whether it is being absorbed into China’s broader geopolitical strategy in the Global South.
The “Second Shenzhen” Dream
The province, already home to a significant concentration of Chinese investment, is envisioned as Cambodia’s industrial and technological hub.
The strategy builds on infrastructure projects like the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway—Cambodia’s first—which improves connectivity, reduces travel time, and facilitates trade and tourism.
This push aligns with Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy, which is seen as a fit for China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
However, while the benefits of infrastructure development and industrialization are clear, critics point to the growing presence of Chinese businesses and workers in Sihanoukville, raising concerns about economic dependence and the potential loss of local control over key sectors.
Expanding Ties Under China’s Vision
Discussions centered on unlocking sustainable growth for rural communities, strengthening food security, and promoting inclusive economic development—all within the framework of deeper Cambodia-China cooperation.
The two-day event, co-hosted by the Royal Academy of Cambodia (RAC) and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), brought together over 100 scholars, policymakers, and media representatives.
The discussions extended beyond academic theory, with participants outlining concrete strategies that could shape Cambodia’s economic trajectory.
Kin Phea, Director-General of the RAC’s International Relations Institute of Cambodia (IRAC), highlighted the forum’s key takeaways in his closing remarks.
“Let us carry forward the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and friendship that has defined our discussions. The Diamond Hexagon Framework is not merely a blueprint – it is a living covenant, strengthened by our relentless innovation, unshakable trust, and shared sacrifice,” Phea said, emphasizing Cambodia’s basis in partnering with China.
Agriculture, Technology, and the Future of Economic Cooperation
Beyond infrastructure, the forum explored new opportunities in agricultural modernization through the Fish and Rice Corridor and the Industrial Development Corridor.
According to the forum report, integrating China’s expertise in digital agriculture, advanced aquaculture, and rural governance with Cambodia’s natural resources could boost food security and rural economic growth.
Discussions covered regional governance, economic corridors, and agricultural cooperation, reinforcing the strategic importance of these ties.
Beyond Economics: Cultural and Political Dimensions
The Cambodia-China partnership extends beyond trade and infrastructure. The forum reaffirmed the importance of cultural exchanges, tourism, and digital innovation as tools to deepen bilateral ties.
The choice of Siem Reap—home to the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat—underscored the cultural dimension of the relationship.
However, this growing closeness also raises larger geopolitical questions. Cambodia has consistently backed China’s regional initiatives, including the GDI and GSI, signaling strong diplomatic alignment.
This strengthens economic ties but also risks reinforcing Cambodia’s position as one of China’s most steadfast allies in Southeast Asia.
A Calculated Risk or a Path to Dependence?
The deeper Cambodia integrates with China’s economic and strategic framework, the greater the potential rewards—but also the risks. Infrastructure, industrialization, and technology transfers could accelerate Cambodia’s development.
Yet, with Chinese capital and expertise flowing in at an unprecedented pace, the country faces a critical question: Is Cambodia strategically harnessing China’s rise for its own benefit, or is it becoming too reliant on Beijing’s vision for its future?
For now, the answer remains unclear. However, the stakes are higher as Cambodia pursues its “second Shenzhen” ambitions.
