Garment exports: Cambodia’s garment, textile, footwear and travel goods exports rose 6.2% to $7.99bn in H1 2026, keeping the sector at 46.8% of total exports and supported by RCEP and new trade links. Trade momentum: Overall exports jumped 19.5% to $17bn in the first half of 2026, while imports climbed 21.4% to $19.7bn, with preferential access from trade pacts cited as a key driver. Manufacturing upgrade: Calypso Motors launched its flagship Calypso Xplorer motorcycle in Phnom Penh, pitching it as proof Cambodia can move beyond assembly into higher-value engineering. Workforce building: The Skills Development Fund signed partnerships with logistics, automotive, electronics and cashew industry groups to align training with labour-market demand. SME and energy ties: France pledged stronger economic cooperation with Cambodia, with focus areas including trade diversification, energy transition and SME engagement ahead of Macron’s November visit. Tourism product push: Cambodia launched Muslim-friendly tourism standards and promoted tailored offerings to attract more Muslim travellers, with a dedicated forum and expo running July 10-12. EV shift: Rising fuel costs are pushing some Cambodians toward Chinese EVs, with users citing lower monthly running costs. Logistics & skills for rural areas: India and Cambodia signed Mekong-Ganga Quick Impact MoUs for climate-smart apiculture and safer schooling support in Kratie’s rural communities. Heritage tourism route: In Siem Reap, an ancient quay at Angkor Park is being restored to expand visitor options along a revived royal palace route.