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Cambodia: One-stop online platform launched for businesses
A new Single Window online platform has been launched by the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) that will simplify the process for businesses applying to import production equipment into the country.
The Cambodian National Single Window platform (CNSW), currently in phase II, gathers together the key ministries of Commerce, Health, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and Industry and Handicraft, plus the council for the Development of Cambodia and the General Department of Customs and Excise.
Speaking at the launch, CDC Secretary General Sok Chenda Sophea said that around 101 companies have currently created accounts to use the platform, with 16 of them already submitting their applications online. Known as the “Master List”, it is expected to reduce the process of importing goods from 15 to 10 days.
“While the purpose of the platform is primarily national, to facilitate trade and import for investors and the private sector, it also represents a big step in connecting Cambodia with other countries. The CDC is stepping up in terms of electronic technology and actively supporting the private sector and investment,” he said.
As the system is still relatively new, there may still be some teething problems, but Sok says he is confident they will be quickly dealt with.
“Since this is new online platform, there will be glitches, but we anticipate that within three to four months, investors will be enjoying the full benefits. This includes convenience in terms of administration work and other application procedures,” he explained.
Kith Meng, president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, has welcomed the innovation. He believes that the CNSW will fit within the Asean and Asean Economic Community framework.
“Each country in Asean is now working hard to attract investments to their country. We congratulate CDC for this new system, which will help boost the livelihoods of people in those countries and so help with the overall development in their country,” Kith said.
He pointed to the ease with which investors or business people can apply for the Master List, anywhere and anytime, via the online platform.
“It ensures the work runs smoothly, reducing labour time and offering a cost-effective solution. It is the way forward for government policy – a digitally powered government and people will help Cambodia to develop fast. This is what the investors want,” Kith added.
According to Sok, the system will also help the participating government bodies to strengthen their data and information banks.
In addition, the CDC this week approved 15 development projects worth a total of $786.8 million. A 1,500-bed international hospital, a supermarket, a resort, a multi-equipment assembly factory and an agro-processing plant are some of the builds that have been green-lit.
The Royal Cambodian Hospital Co Ltd will contribute up to $478 million to the construction of the hospital on a plot of land along Samdech Hun Sen Boulevard, Choeung Ek, in Phnom Penh. The project will also create 1,500 jobs.
Chip Mong Retail Co Ltd is building the supermarket at 271, Chak Angre Commune, Meanchey district, in the capital, at a cost of $113.9 million. It will employ 829 people. In addition to this, Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium Co Ltd, a resort in Siem Reap province, will be developed for $71.7 million and generate 151 jobs.
In further news, the CDC has approved 10 new investment projects with a total investment of $83.3 million. These include the production of clothing, travel goods, household appliances, furniture, light bulbs and batteries among other products.
Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50696113/one-stop-online-platform-launched-for-businesses