Automotive Manufacturing: Toyota officially launched the Hilux Travo assembly line at its Royal Group Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone plant, expanding local production beyond the Fortuner and Hilux models already assembled since 2024. Agri-Exports: Cambodia exported over 7,300 tonnes of rice to the US in H1 2026, with the Cambodia Rice Federation scouting US retail to sharpen branding, packaging and market positioning. Energy & Industry Finance: Cambodia launched a $20m Energy Efficiency Revolving Fund backed by ADB and partners to help SMEs invest in energy-saving technologies and cut operating costs. Clean Energy Skills: Cambodia’s first National Clean Energy Youth Forum flagged a major workforce gap for solar, energy efficiency and EV value-chain jobs, calling for more hands-on training and recognized certification. Power Infrastructure: ADB also approved a $63.44m battery energy storage system project, supporting grid stability as demand rises. EV & Battery Governance: A new global report warns battery waste rules lag behind EV growth, leaving developing countries exposed—an issue closely tied to Cambodia’s broader clean-energy push. Trade & Retail: Jaguar Land Rover opened a Cambodia showroom, signaling continued confidence in the market for premium vehicles and services. Border & Labor Pressure: Cambodia’s crackdown on cyber scam centers is driving a surge in Indonesian repatriation requests, adding strain to immigration and shelter systems. ASEAN-India STEM: Cambodia will host the 2nd ASEAN-India Women in Science Conclave in Phnom Penh, focusing on food security, sustainable energy, education access and emerging technologies.