A delegation from the Textile, Apparel, Footwear and Travel Goods Association in Cambodia (TAFTAC) has asked the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) to continue its support for the association’s activities in order to encourage investment in the garment, footwear and travel goods sectors, as well as several supporting industries.
Newly elected TAFTAC chairman Enjoy Ho led a delegation to a March 10 meeting with Chea Vuthy, secretary-general of the CDC’s Cambodia Investment Board, at the CDC headquarters.
Ho explained the roughly 30-year history of the association, noting that it changed its name from the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC) to TAFTAC.
He expressed his belief that the cooperation between TAFTAC and the CDC continues to show positive signs. However, he noted that the relationship could be further strengthened.
Vuthy expressed appreciation for the association’s past activities that have contributed to Cambodia’s socio-economic development and reaffirmed his willingness to maintain strong cooperation.
He suggested two new initiatives that TAFTAC could consider for its new mandate.
He believed the association could contribute to the reduction of environmental pollution risks by studying and identifying a suitable location for investment projects related to washing and dyeing, and he also suggested trying to attract upstream industries that would support the industry’s supply chains.
Vuthy noted that the CDC is prepared to support these efforts.
When Ho was elected in mid-January of this year, he highlighted that textile, apparel, footwear and travel goods sector is not only a crucial part of Cambodia’s industrial sector but also a key pillar of the national economy. The sector contributes significantly to job creation and serves as a bridge connecting Cambodia to global supply chains.
“For Cambodia’s textile sector to remain strong and successful, it requires the participation of all stakeholders, including cooperation and coordination from the government,” he said.
“We look forward to continued partnership and open dialogue with the government. A policy environment that is reliable, clear and supportive remains critically important for sustaining investment and employment for the people,” he added,
According to the Ministry of Commerce, garment exports earned more than $11 billion in 2025, an increase of 16.52% over the previous year. Footwear exports amounted to more than $2 billion, up 24.53%, while travel goods generated more than $2 billion, rising 3.87%.
