The Kingdom of Cambodia has been experiencing a rapid economic recovery for 20 years, stimulated by a policy of opening up the economy. The Cambodian economy is based in the main on four pillars - construction and real estate, textiles, which represent 75% of the country's exports, tourism and agriculture. Located in the heart of South-East Asia, Cambodia represents an expanding market potential for French companies.

Source : Country profile Business France

Good to know :

Language spoken : Khmer, around 20 local languages, Chinese
Local currency : Riel
Capital : Phnom Penh

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E in Cambodia

Do you already meet the International Young Talent Program criteria ?

Then, consult the table here!

- If your situation only meets ☼, you can try your luck for a V.I.E in Cambodia. Your application will be studied.

- If your situation meets at least 1 X, 😬 Cambodia cannot accommodate you in V.I.E. Don't be disappointed, continue your research! Other exciting destinations will seduce you!

Do you have any doubts about your eligibility ? Feel free to contact us.

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A in Cambodia

To go to Cambodia as a V.I.A, you must fulfil the conditions for accessing the V.I.A.
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit.

The cultural work codes in Cambodia

Over twenty languages are spoken in Cambodia, in addition to Khmer. But which language should you use for business ? Although English or Chinese are the reference languages for negotiating with your partners when living in Cambodia, it may be useful in some cases to use an interpreter. But don't worry, young Cambodians are quite comfortable with English and you will be able to get by on a daily basis in the language of Shakespeare.

When it comes to business, you can expect a clash of cultures. Which qualities will you find useful ? Your ability to adapt and your patience! Keep an open mind and avoid being insistent with your colleagues. In short, adapt to the local pace.

A few examples of these cultural differences - first of all, business is very much based on the spoken word. Although Cambodians increasingly use written contracts when it comes to large amounts of money, smaller deals are still very much negotiated verbally. As you will have understood, in Cambodian culture, your word is your bond ! Another point - you need to put on your negotiating suit ! In life and in business, negotiating prices and the culture of bargaining are widely practised.

Finally, bear in mind that it is very commonplace to share a good time in a restaurant, before or after having signed a deal. Inviting your Cambodian contacts will be seen as proof of your consideration and respect. So don’t hesitate !

Things that may surprise you in Cambodia

- The first thing that strikes when you arrive in Cambodia is the traffic ! The density of the traffic and the relentless ballet of motorcycles, 4x4s and tuk-tuks can be surprising or even scary at first sight. The Highway Code is far from being respected - by default, it is often the law of the strongest that prevails, i.e. the largest vehicle takes precedence over smaller ones. Moreover, pedestrians have a hard time - for example, the pavement is not entirely reserved for them. So keep your eyes open !

- Another major cultural shock is the waste lying all over the ground and lining the roadsides, even in the middle of the countryside. It is not uncommon for Cambodians to throw away cans, bottles or leftovers on the ground. While there may be a waste collection system in cities, dustbins are still a rarity in the urban landscape.

- Cambodia is said to be the land of smiles ! A ranking published in November 2018 in the "NY Times", said that Cambodia was "the most friendly country in South East Asia". And indeed, it is difficult to be unmoved by Cambodians who are characterised by their great gentleness and their legendary sense of hospitality.  You will not be indifferent to it - we can guarantee that !

- Nature lover ? Come and discover a dazzling show, which takes place only once a year ! At the beginning of November, as the monsoon season is coming to an end, the flow of the Tonlé Sap River changes direction. This unique natural phenomenon is also an opportunity to see many animal species such as Asian elephants, the Javan rhinoceros, wild oxen, bears, tigers, Vietnamese Pot-bellied pigs, monkeys, leopards or the Asian buffalo.

- With these Indian and Chinese influences, Cambodian cuisine is atypical and delicious ! It combines Indian spices with Chinese cooking methods, fresh vegetables, meat and fish in a whirlwind of different flavours. Soup is one of the most popular dishes in Cambodia and has many variations. The most traditional, somlor koko, is made from chicken or fish, spinach, papaya and grilled rice. You can also try the national dish, amok trei, a fish curry marinated in lemongrass and coconut milk. Finally, for when you are really hungry, we strongly recommend khor sach chrouk, a caramelised pork stew or marinated beef lôc lac.

- Cambodia is a country where the living is good : 10 months of sunshine a year, a welcoming, tolerant and open population, no ethnic or religious problems and a high quality of life for a European. You quickly adapt to local life, which follows the rhythms of sunrise and sunset and which is imbued with a philosophy of “living fully in the present moment”.