The Market Potential Cambodia Mining Sector Outlook Has

Cambodia’s mining sector is on the rise. In 2024, it generated nearly $100 million in non-tax revenues, marking an 80% jump from the year before. This dramatic increase reflects growing mining activity, higher profitability, and improved regulation. The sector is becoming a central part of Cambodia’s economic engine and no longer just a supporting industry. Let’s take a look at Cambodia Mining Sector Outlook below!

Cambodia Mining Sector Outlook: A Growing Contribution to the Economy

Cambodia’s GDP from mining reached approximately 1,992.6 billion KHR ($480 million) in 2023, up from 1,666.1 billion KHR in 2022. By the end of 2025, it is expected to climb to 2,132 billion KHR, cementing its role as a reliable growth contributor.

Kampong Speu province, a major mining hub, is already home to about 1,900 direct mining jobs. Nationwide, the sector supports more than 11,300 jobs, indicating a significant employment impact, especially in rural areas.

Investment and Licensing Surge

Currently, Cambodia has 555 active mineral resource licenses, reflecting USD 2.764 billion in total investment. These licenses span both domestic and foreign players, showing that investor confidence is building. The rise in demand for mining lubricants and equipment points to ongoing and future exploration and extraction efforts. This activity is expected to drive market growth through 2031.

Cambodia’s non-tax mining revenues in 2024 totaled USD 65 million, with royalties accounting for 88% of this sum. That number is expected to rise to USD 89 million by 2025, with royalties making up 90%, indicating stronger compliance, better oversight, and more efficient revenue collection mechanisms.

Emerging Opportunities in Rare Earth Elements and Industrial Minerals

Cambodia’s mining sector is gaining attention for its untapped potential in rare earth elements (REEs) and industrial minerals. Recent surveys indicate significant deposits of monazite and xenotime—key REEs used in electronics and renewable energy technologies—in provinces like Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. With global demand for REEs projected to grow 8-12% annually (driven by EV and wind turbine production), Cambodia could position itself as a strategic supplier.

Cambodia Mining Sector Outlook: Stronger Frameworks, Greater Trust

Behind this growth is a more transparent and investor-friendly regulatory environment. The Ministry of Mines and Energy is emphasizing sustainable resource use, streamlined licensing, and stronger governance. This is helping build long-term investor confidence in a sector once viewed as opaque.

Government officials see mining as a pillar for national development. The revenue generated supports public investment, infrastructure, and rural job creation. It also reflects the success of Cambodia’s broader efforts to modernize its economy, diversify income sources, and attract quality investment.

A stable political climate, improved legal safeguards, and clear mineral policies have also been key to positioning Cambodia as a competitive emerging market in Southeast Asia.

The Outlook Is Bright for Cambodia Mining Sector Outlook

With GDP contributions and investor activity on the rise, the Cambodia mining sector outlook is strong. The combination of economic incentives, resource availability, and regulatory progress offers a promising future for companies and investors alike. From royalties to jobs, and from infrastructure to innovation, mining is becoming a cornerstone of Cambodia’s next chapter of growth. For businesses looking to tap into this momentum, now is the time to act—the foundation is set, and the potential is real.