The Kingdom of Cambodia came to power in 1993 a constitutional monarchy, with the government headed by a democratically elected prime minister. The prime minister is elected for a 5-year term, and a National Assembly composed of 122 representatives holding legislative power is also elected for a term of 5 years. King Norodom Sihanouk has been the Head of State and reigning monarch since 1993, with Hun Sen as Prime Minister since 1998.

photo by Adriaan Castermans (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

Economy of Cambodia

Almost 90% of Cambodia’s population live in rural areas, so it’s hardly surprising that agriculture is the primary industry of Cambodia. Rice, rubber, cassava, sweet potatoes, corn, soybeans, and tobacco are the main products. Cambodia also manufactures cement, rubber, cigarettes, and garments. Though rubies are mined for export, it is tourism that is the top foreign exchange earner.

After 4 years of promising macroeconomic performance, Cambodia's economy slowed in 1997-98, following the regional economic crisis, and foreign investment declined. Even given political and economic stability, the task of long-term economic development after decades of conflict remains huge.

photo by Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

Paul Smith | Compulsive Traveler