Phnom Penh: The Cambodia Salon Business Forum 2026, held on September 1st, marked a significant national event dedicated to addressing challenges and enhancing standards for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). A core objective of the forum was also to foster sustainable women’s entrepreneurship throughout Cambodia.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, underscored the critical role of women as the backbone and a vital driving force within the informal economy, particularly in the thriving beauty and cosmetology sector. The Minister strongly encouraged entrepreneurs, including both young men and women within this field, to proactively develop their capabilities and integrate modern technological skills. This progressive approach is deemed essential to navigate the evolving market landscape, which increasingly demands highly skilled labor and a comprehensive understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
In parallel, Ms. Hang Vutha, Director General of the Cambodia Salon Sector Training Center, highlighted the success of this inaugural national forum. It drew an impressive turnout of over 2,000 business owners, beauty professionals, and women entrepreneurs who gathered to exchange experiences and collaborate on solutions. A pivotal aim of the forum was to facilitate the transition of businesses historically operating within the “informal economy” into a formalized system, thereby ensuring adherence to proper standards, technical safety, and heightened professionalism. Ms. Vutha further elaborated that the salon sector has undergone a substantial transformation, evolving from a traditional family-oriented service into a powerful service industry that has generated tens of thousands of employment opportunities and significantly boosted stable incomes for Cambodian women.
Also addressing the forum, H.E. Khieu Nalisa, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, emphasized the forum’s substantial contribution to human capital development. This includes building confidence, nurturing leadership qualities, promoting a spirit of solidarity, enhancing core capabilities, and strengthening women’s economic independence. She further reiterated that the Royal Government of Cambodia, through its four-phase Rectangular Strategy, has consistently recognized women as the indispensable backbone of the national economy and society. Currently, Cambodia remains committed to prioritizing the advancement of gender equality and the empowerment of women across all sectors within its ongoing policy agenda.
Presently, Cambodia’s salon and beauty sector continues to play a paramount role in creating tens of thousands of employment opportunities, especially for women and youth. The 2026 forum, in particular, served as an influential catalyst, empowering all business owners to embrace new knowledge, innovative practices, and digital technologies. This initiative is crucial for expanding their business potential and ensuring future growth and long-term sustainability.
