Phnom Penh: After attending the celebration of the 115th International Women’s Day on March 8th yesterday morning, organized by the Cambodian National Trade Union Council (CCNU), on the afternoon of Sunday, March 8, 2026, Mr. Heng Sour, Minister of the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training, continued to participate in the 115th International Women’s Day celebration organized by the National Alliance of Cambodian Trade Unions (NACC) under the theme “Together We Promote Gender Equality in the Workplace” at the central headquarters.
The ceremony was attended by leaders and members from trade unions, federations, grassroots unions, and associations affiliated with NACC, totaling more than 300 people, including leadership from the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training, representatives from the Textile, Garment, Footwear, and Travel Goods Association of Cambodia (TAFTAC), and representatives from the Solidarity Center (ACILS).
In this joyful and united spirit ceremony, the minister emphasized that female workers in enterprises, companies, and factories play an important role in boosting family economies and promoting national economic growth through participation in producing export products for international markets, while fulfilling their vital roles within families. At the same time, working conditions, occupational safety and health, and especially gender equality in the workplace are continuously prioritized and promoted.
Female workers in the garment, textile, footwear, bag, and travel goods sectors have significantly contributed to generating family income and improving living standards, as well as increasing Cambodia’s export volume, which is a crucial pillar for the national economy by creating many jobs and involving approximately 55% of total exports. Additionally, this sector has provided many job opportunities for former Cambodian workers from Thailand.
The minister also pointed out that this important theme aligns with the International Labour Organization (ILO), which always values Cambodian women’s active participation in decision-making and promotes peace, resilience, and safety in society. This meaningful event is not only a symbol but also a gathering to deeply express gratitude for the indispensable participation and role of women in contributing to building the economy and developing the motherland to its current prosperity.
Meanwhile, Mr. Heng Sour stressed that the ministry has and continues to focus on improving working conditions, occupational safety and health, and especially promoting gender equality through strict implementation of national and international laws and charters related to labor, with female workers receiving high attention.
The minister encouraged trade unions and employers to increase cooperation in resolving labor disputes by avoiding “roadblock tactics,” as such actions severely affect other citizens.
According to a report by Mr. Kim Chansamnang, NACC President, in 2025, NACC actively participated in mediating labor disputes, establishing trade unions, disseminating laws and regulations, and engaging in tripartite mechanisms, especially assisting in mediating issues for Cambodian workers.
In conclusion, the minister expressed high praise and appreciation for NACC’s achievements, which have greatly contributed to the development of the labor sector, social security, and vocational training. He recommended that NACC continue to focus on building trust to attract more members by demonstrating credible and transparent work results, which are indispensable partners in social dialogue mechanisms with employers and ministries to resolve various issues and help increase investor confidence to continue expanding investments and create suitable job opportunities for workers. He also encouraged NACC to continue organizing such celebratory events frequently to strengthen solidarity and good relationships among members.
