The UK-ASEAN Trade Mission in Cambodia (Nov 18-19) creates new opportunities for ASEAN women entrepreneurs. Focused on empowering women-led businesses, the event builds lasting partnerships in textiles, handicrafts, and footwear while highlighting the UK’s commitment to gender equality and economic growth.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in ASEAN
The UK-ASEAN Trade Mission is part of a UK Government-funded initiative promoting women’s economic empowerment. Taking place in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, it connects eight UK companies with 75 Cambodian women-led businesses in sectors like textiles, apparel, handicrafts, and footwear.
By fostering meaningful partnerships, the mission paves the way for sustainable growth and global market access.
Event Highlights
- Location & Dates: Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Nov 18-19, 2024
- Participants: 8 UK companies and 75 Cambodian women-led businesses
- Sectors: Textiles, apparel, handicrafts, footwear
Key activities include a “meet the buyers” session, where Cambodian entrepreneurs can showcase products to UK delegates, and site visits to women-led business facilities.
How This Mission Creates Impact
The UK-ASEAN Trade Mission is a cornerstone of the SheTrades Programme, which is funded by the UK and implemented in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC). Its focus on gender equality aligns with global efforts to promote inclusive economic growth.
Objectives
- Empower Women: Strengthen women entrepreneurs by facilitating direct access to UK markets.
- Foster Trade Ties: Build robust business relationships between the UK and ASEAN.
- Promote Sustainability: Focus on industries like textiles and handicrafts that support eco-conscious production.
ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs and UK Businesses: A Snapshot
| Sector | Women-Led Businesses (Cambodia) | UK Participants |
|---|---|---|
| Textiles & Apparel | 25 | 3 |
| Handicrafts | 30 | 3 |
| Footwear | 20 | 2 |
This mission emphasizes practical support, from access to commercial buyers to training on export procedures.
Looking Beyond Cambodia
After Phnom Penh, the mission moves to Jakarta, Indonesia, continuing its focus on empowering women entrepreneurs in ASEAN. Events in Jakarta will explore further opportunities to strengthen trade partnerships.
Why It Matters
The UK-ASEAN Trade Mission reflects the UK’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and gender equality. Through initiatives like the export procedure handbook and targeted networking events, the mission provides the tools and connections for women-led businesses to thrive on the global stage.
Take the Next Step
Discover more about the UK’s efforts to empower women entrepreneurs and foster economic growth in ASEAN. Stay informed about upcoming trade missions and the SheTrades Programme’s latest initiatives by visiting official UK Government and ITC platforms.
Sources: THX News & British Embassy Phnom Penh.
