Phnom Penh: Mr. Heng Sour, Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, received a courtesy visit and work discussion with Mr. Takahashi Fumiaki, President of the Japan Cambodia Association (JCA), and colleagues on the afternoon of March 31, 2026, at the Ministry’s office to update on the progress of cooperation and exchange views on strengthening collaboration to deepen human resource development in line with market demands and promote investment by Japanese companies in Cambodia.
On this occasion, the Minister highlighted the excellent relationship between the Ministry and JCA, which serves as a bridge connecting investors to contribute to human resource and economic development in Cambodia, especially promoting skilled labor through opportunities for internships and work in Japan. Mr. Heng Sour emphasized the potential, investment opportunities, and labor development in Cambodia, particularly the increasingly capable and energetic youth resources through technical and vocational education and training (TVET) aligned with the rapidly changing market and industries. He stressed that Cambodia wishes to see an increase in the dispatch of Cambodian workers to Japan.
The Minister encouraged JCA to consider key methods to make Japanese language training easier and faster to learn, especially concerning technical vocabulary, which has been a challenge in the past.
Both parties also discussed the importance of developing highly capable human resources, which is essential not only for Cambodia’s development but also for Japan.
Meanwhile, the Minister reported on strengthening and establishing cooperation with many partners, including the Japanese company Toyota. This demonstrates the Ministry’s warm welcome and full support for all cooperation with countries that can help supplement human resource training in Cambodia. The Ministry welcomes investment in Cambodia as well as other cooperation with Japanese parties, especially in the TVET sector and opening more opportunities for Cambodian youth to work in Japan.
In response, Mr. Takahashi Fumiaki expressed deep gratitude to the Minister for changing perspectives, sharing experiences, and highlighting priority work in human resource development. His Excellency confirmed that JCA wants to expand cooperation with the Ministry, especially in human resource development and dispatching Cambodian workers to Japan, as Japan is currently facing a shortage of young labor force. Mr. Takahashi Fumiaki also thanked the Royal Government and the Ministry for supporting JCA to carry out operations over the past three years.
