Somheng (second from the right) presents a certificate to a foreign exhibitor at the expo on November 28. Post staff
The Asia Entertainment and Investment Expo 2018 concluded in Phnom Penh on a positive note last week, with potential sales hitting the targeted $50 million and investors expressing confidence in Cambodia’s business sector.
The three-day trade event managed to attract about 2,000 visitors and 70 exhibitors from Asia, Europe and the US.
“It was a successful event and we managed to hit the $50 million target in terms of potential and confirmed sales that included gaming, equipment and entertainment categories,” Jerel Soo, CEO of WorldEx Trade Media Sdn Bhd that organised the event told The Post.
Following the success and requests from international participants, the organisers are planning to host the event in Sihanoukville next year – a city which has emerged as a major attraction for gaming investors.
The expo themed “Realizing Opportunities and Gearing Gaming Market for Future” was held at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel from November 28 to 30.
The objective of the event was to attract investors in the property, franchise, gaming and entertainment industries.
And, at the same time to promote the latest technologies in the entertainment and gaming sectors.
Companies involved in e-payment, leisure, online-gaming and service providers for the entertainment industry participated in the expo, while experts also joined the conference, where issues related to the respective sectors were discussed.
“Cambodia is moving in the right direction and the entertainment and gaming sectors can attract more tourists to the country and also reduce unemployment like in Macau, where unemployment is very low.
“More investors from Europe are showing interest in Cambodia as the gaming market is a sunset industry in Europe. So Cambodia has the opportunity to position itself as key player in the region,” he added.
The government legalised gambling in Cambodia and 60 gambling outlets are currently operating in 13 cities around the Kingdom.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event last Wednesday, Ministry of Commerce undersecretary Somheng Bora urged foreign investors to consider Cambodia as their investment destination as the country is experiencing rapid growth.
“There is a big push for development in Cambodia, there is peace and rapid development."
“I am passionate about promoting development and invite foreign investors to invest in Cambodia."
“The environment here is ready to accept your investments,” said Somheng.
The trade expo was supported by the Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Economy and Finance.
Malaysia-based WorldEx Trade Media Group is involved in organising international trade events around the region.
