BYD Cambodia, a subsidiary of China's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD, has commenced operations at its vehicle assembly plant in the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, according to the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC).

On 20th December, Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice-Chairman of the CDC, led a delegation to inspect the plant's production lines.

During the visit, Chanthol encouraged the company to enhance value within the local supply chain and to expand production at the BYD Cambodia assembly plant.

He urged the company to consider sourcing raw materials or components already produced in Cambodia to support local enterprises and reduce imports. "This expansion aims to create higher value-added, increase the transfer of technological knowledge, and generate more job opportunities for Cambodian citizens," Chanthol stated.

BYD officially commenced construction of its new vehicle assembly plant in Cambodia in April, on a 12-hectare site within the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone.

The plant will have an annual assembly capacity exceeding 10,000 vehicles. BYD Cambodia intends to produce two vehicle types at the facility: fully electric BYD EVs and hybrid models capable of operating on both gasoline and electricity.

The first phase of construction involves an investment of US$ 32 million. Initially, BYD will import components from abroad for local assembly.

"The presence of a global industry leader such as BYD is definitive evidence that Cambodia is a high-potential, safe, and profitable investment destination," Chanthol commented.

The inspection sent a clear signal to international investors that the Cambodian Government remains actively engaged and prepared to provide comprehensive support to ensure investment success and sustainability.

BYD joins other global automotive manufacturers in Cambodia, including Ford, Toyota, and Hyundai, which maintain vehicle assembly factories in the country.

The Cambodian Government has committed to ensuring that, by 2050, 40% of cars and urban buses and 70% of motorbikes are electric, as part of measures to reduce carbon emissions.

To support this target, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport has promoted the use of electric vehicles and motorcycles, highlighting their environmental benefits and cost savings for users. According to reports, the three most popular EV brands in Cambodia are BYD, Toyota, and Tesla.

The CDC intends to leverage its experience facilitating BYD's investment as a model to improve the efficiency of investment services for other companies. "CDC will continue to work closely with BYD to explore new investment opportunities aimed at boosting productivity for both domestic supply and international export markets," Chanthol added.