AKP Phnom Penh, June 03, 2026 --

Cambodia’s Labour and Vocational Training Minister H.E. Heng Sour made a strategic visit to a major garment factory supplying Uniqlo on Wednesday, using the occasion to urge workers to avoid unlawful strikes while praising the employer for following labour laws.

The Minister toured Shinki Apparel in Samaky Meanchey district, Kampong Chhnang province – a 2025-built facility employing 6,614 workers, 77 percent of them women – and hosted a luncheon for staff. He reiterated the Royal Government’s commitment to “industrial harmony” under directives from former Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and current Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

“Maintain open communication with employers,” H.E. Heng Sour told workers, adding that the Ministry operates hotlines for dispute resolution and technical training. He warned against illegal work stoppages but highlighted Royal Government’s efforts to raise living standards through the National Social Security Fund and a 1.5-million-person vocational training programme.

Shinki Apparel, which provides free daily lunches, was commended for its automation and safety standards. The factory is a key producer for Japanese retailer Uniqlo, underscoring Cambodia’s reliance on garment exports – and stable labour relations – for economic growth.

By K. Rithy Reak