AKP Phnom Penh, October 15, 2025 --

The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI), in collaboration with the Cambodian Water Supply Association (CWA) and Informa Markets, kicked off the three-day “Cambodia’s No. 1 International Water Industry Exhibition and Conference” at Koh Pich Exhibition and Convention Centre on Oct. 14, bringing together stakeholders from across the water industry to promote sustainable and inclusive access to clean water.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of MISTI Hem Vanndy said the event reflects Cambodia’s collective commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.1 — universal access to clean water by 2030 — amid growing climate challenges.

“Clean water is the foundation of public health, economic activity, and industrial growth. It must be of good quality, safe, sustainable, and affordable,” he said. “I urge all operators to strengthen capacity, improve water quality, and align with national standards — because strengthening capacity means helping ourselves and strengthening our country.”

As of the third quarter of 2025, Cambodia’s clean water network serves over 1.54 million households nationwide, of which 36 percent of clean water is produced by private operators.

Minister Vanndy underscored the private sector’s essential contribution to expanding coverage while reminding operators to comply with national water quality standards and collaborate closely with MISTI as the government prepares to establish a dedicated clean water regulator in line with the Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1.

Mr. Leng Khiev, President of the Cambodian Water Supply Association, noted that the conference gathered ministries-institutions, development partners, private water operators, and international experts from ten countries to exchange knowledge and technology. He emphasised the vital role of private operators, particularly in rural areas, in helping Cambodia achieve its SDG 6.1 target and strengthen resilience to climate change.

Representing the event organiser, Ms. Haza Tukimin, Senior Event Manager of Informa Markets (AsiaWater), said the exhibition provides a valuable platform for both local and international companies to showcase innovative products, share expertise, and foster partnerships that will enhance water supply efficiency and sustainability in Cambodia.

Over 100 exhibitors from around the region are participating in the three-day event, showcasing the latest water supply and treatment technologies, products, and solutions. The conference also features technical presentations, business networking sessions, and live demonstrations aimed at helping Cambodia’s water operators modernize infrastructure, improve service quality, and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

AKP-MISTI