Phnom Penh, March 10, 2025 – The National Council of Science, Technology and Innovation (NCSTI), in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP), hosted a national forum on "Cambodia's Readiness for Artificial Intelligence," attracting around 200 participants from key ministries, universities, and the private sector. The forum aimed to leverage AI's transformative potential to drive economic growth and address societal challenges.

During his opening address, H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation and the NCSTI, emphasized the necessity of a unified approach to guide AI development toward long-term national objectives. 

“With this forum, we are promoting the use of AI to drive Cambodia's productivity and economic efficiency in all stages of socio-economic progress,” Minister Vanndy said. "AI must not be used in anarchy, nor should it be restricted unnecessarily. Our approach must ensure AI serves long-term national development."

In collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP), MISTI and NCSTI are developing a national AI strategy as part of the "Community of Practice on AI Initiative," gathering input from technical groups, government officials, and private sector representatives.

Mr. Joseph Scheuer, UN Resident Coordinator to Cambodia, emphasized AI's critical role in development, stressing the need for inclusivity. “AI must be accessible to everyone, ensuring no one is left behind. All stakeholders—government, businesses, researchers, and especially youth—must actively shape the national AI strategy to make it practical, inclusive, and aligned with Cambodia’s development goals.” 

Reaffirming the UN’s commitment, he added, “Coordination and collaboration will be key. No single entity can shape the future alone.”

The first phase of the national AI strategy focuses on eight key areas: promoting national productivity, enhancing research capabilities, building human capital, developing digital infrastructure, expanding international cooperation, promoting AI in the public sector, enhancing AI literacy, and promoting inclusive innovation.

The forum featured a panel discussion moderated by Senior Minister Chhem Kieth Rethy, centering on leveraging AI to diversify Cambodia’s economy. Panelists from the public, private, and academic sectors discussed opportunities AI offers, from improved data analysis to educational transformation to bussiness and industrial development. However, realizing this potential also requires addressing challenges related to ethics, job displacement, and regulatory frameworks to ensure safe and equitable use.

AI is projected to boost ASEAN’s GDP by 10% to 18% by 2030, potentially reaching approximately US$1 trillion. Recognizing this, the NCSTI has initiated studies on AI’s benefits, impacts, and global trends to develop a comprehensive National AI Strategy that aligns with Cambodia’s needs while mitigating risks.