Growth Gateway: UK–Cambodia infrastructure market playbook, navigating opportunities in sustainable infrastructure development in Cambodia (summary)
Published 20 April 2026
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This guidance document was prepared by Growth Gateway, in collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The playbook sets out how to enable the UK government and partners to present a holistic UK offer in Cambodia’s infrastructure, and to deepen government to government dialogue.
It is a practical tool to help officials align messages, co-ordinate offers, and engage originators. It highlights where UK capabilities align with Cambodia’s priorities and how to progress discussions into delivery.
The playbook sets out how to enable Cambodia’s graduation from least developed country (LDC) status alongside the ‘Pentagonal Strategy’, which focuses on diversification, human capital, private enterprise and the digital economy.
Infrastructure is positioned as a core enabler of competitiveness, connectivity and resilience. Regional trends raise expectations on standards, environmental performance and smart infrastructure. These shifts increase the need for stronger governance and clear delivery pathways.
The playbook identifies financing, regulatory frameworks and enforcement, limited technical capability, and innovation gaps as the main binding constraints that slow progress. Finance remains limited as concessional sources tighten and instruments remain narrow.
The playbook sets out 4 pillars for the UK offer:
- alternative financing options, including credit guarantees and blended structures, to crowd in private capital
- governance and delivery support to strengthen contracts, processes and project assurance
- technical expertise and capacity building to raise standards across planning, design and operations
- innovation acceleration through research partnerships, pilots and access to UK innovation networks
Sectors are prioritised using 3 areas:
- readiness to engage
- potential for UK expertise
- bankability
Near-term focus sits on green industrial parks and special economic zones, logistics and ports, urban mobility, and renewable energy with storage. Each area outlines where UK firms can add value, from design and engineering to financing and programme management. The approach encourages sequencing, early wins and scalable models.
The playbook proposes practical next steps to unlock delivery. These include progressing a double taxation agreement, digitising licensing, and building familiarity with non‑concessional finance. It promotes modern contracting standards and project delivery toolkits, and stronger innovation links with UK programmes.