AKP Phnom Penh, December 16, 2025 -- The National Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI), in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Texas A&M University, hosted a national forum on “eBeam and X-ray Technologies for a Smarter Future: New Frontiers in Business and Investment in Cambodia.” 

The forum brought together experts from the public and private sectors to discuss applications, benefits, business opportunities, safety considerations, and public misconceptions related to radiation treatment technologies, especially in food industry, according to the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI).

In his opening remarks, H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of MISTI, highlighted the strategic importance of adopting radiation treatment technologies in Cambodia.

“Embracing multi-purpose radiation treatment technologies is a crucial step in strengthening Cambodia’s science, technology and innovation capacity, attracting investment, and creating high-quality jobs,” He said. “These technologies will enhance product safety, support key industries, and improve competitiveness in regional and global markets, reflecting the Royal Government’s commitment to building a modern, resilient, and innovation-driven economy.”

Professor Suresh Pillai, Director of the National Centre for Electron Beam Research at Texas A&M University, reaffirmed his institution’s support for Cambodia, noting that early adoption of eBeam and X-ray technologies can position Cambodia competitively in the region and could serve as a model for how government catalyses private investment in novel technologies.

“Texas A&M, together with our international partners, stands ready to support Cambodia by sharing scientific expertise, training, and technical experience to ensure these technologies take root and thrive,” he added.

The forum highlighted the potential of eBeam and X-ray technologies to generate new business and investment opportunities, particularly in agriculture, healthcare, and materials science, contributing to technology-driven economic development.

“This national forum not only showcases the benefits of eBeam and X-ray technologies, but also fosters partnerships that will help Cambodia keep pace with global trends toward green, safe, and efficient industrial development,” said H.E. Hong Rada, Undersecretary of State at MISTI and the project manager.

Radiation treatment technologies, including eBeam and X-ray, are widely applied across ASEAN and globally to enhance food safety, industrial productivity, healthcare services, and research. Advanced economies such as the United States, Germany, Japan, France, and the Republic of Korea have significantly expanded investments in these technologies across multiple sectors.

AKP-MISTI