Read the article on Cambodianess, on the interview of Chamna Ky with our Vice Chairman, Dr. Riccardo Corrado, sharing valuable insights into the opportunities, challenges, and thriving collaborations that link Italy and Cambodia.
The article says that “for decades, a network of businesses, professionals, NGOs, and trade agreements has woven a connection between Cambodia and Italy.
Yet, compared to other European nations, there remains much untapped potential for Italian stakeholders to explore in Cambodia—and for Cambodians to discover in Italy.”
Founded in 2017 under the name Italian Cambodian Business Association (ICBA), ItaCham emerged as a platform to enhance collaboration in business and trade, with a broader goal of fostering cultural and educational exchanges. Before its establishment, the bilateral relationship between the two nations was relatively modest, characterized by trade in garments, machinery, and agricultural products. The European Union’s EBA initiative played a crucial role in boosting Cambodia’s exports to Italy, particularly in the garment sector.
Despite early challenges, such as limited institutional presence and a lack of awareness among Italian businesses about Cambodia’s market potential, ItaCham has worked to overcome these barriers. Italy’s contributions to Cambodia extend beyond commerce, with notable efforts in preserving cultural heritage through restoration projects and artistic collaborations. These initiatives underscore the shared pride both nations have in their historical and artistic legacies.
The interview highlighted several areas of opportunity for collaboration, including agritech, tourism, fashion, design, technology, and space. ItaCham has already facilitated projects like Italian Space Day and partnerships between Italian and Cambodian universities, showcasing the potential for innovation and mutual growth. Furthermore, individual Italians and organizations, such as Smateria, Khmer Green Charcoal, and Il Nodo, have made meaningful contributions to Cambodia through sustainable practices and cultural exchange.
Looking ahead, ItaCham envisions a future built on sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships. Planned initiatives include concerts, fashion shows, educational seminars, and technology dialogues, aimed at deepening the connection between Italy and Cambodia. Dr. Riccardo Corrado, Vice-Chairman of ItaCham, emphasizes the importance of attracting more investments and fostering stronger collaborations to fully realize the potential of this relationship. He underscores ItaCham’s mission to act as a bridge, ensuring that the partnership between the two nations is built on understanding, respect, and shared goals.
Dr. Riccardo concluded the interview quoting a campaign of the Italian Trade Agency:
“We are imagining future paths, while being inspired by our living past. We are builders, innovators, artists and scientists – everyday visionaries, original and refined, stubbornly authentic, with unmatched quality on our mind”.
Read the full article on Cambodianess.
