Cambodia has become an increasingly attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors, thanks to its strategic location, growing economy, and investor-friendly policies. Setting up a business here can open doors to opportunities across Southeast Asia. However, the process requires a good understanding of the country’s legal framework and administrative requirements. This guide walks you through the essential steps for smooth Company registration in Cambodia.
Step 1: Decide on the Business Structure
Entrepreneurs must first choose the right entity type. The most common structures include:
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Private Limited Company (PLC) – Suitable for most small and medium-sized enterprises.
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Branch Office – For foreign companies seeking to operate in Cambodia while maintaining their existing structure abroad.
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Representative Office – Useful for market research or liaison activities, though it cannot directly engage in profit-making activities.
Step 2: Reserve the Company Name
Business owners need to reserve a unique company name through the Ministry of Commerce’s online registration portal. The name must not conflict with existing businesses or use restricted terms.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
The following documents are generally needed:
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Articles of Association
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Identity documents of shareholders and directors
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Company office address details
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Share capital information
Ensuring accuracy at this stage helps avoid delays during approval.
Step 4: Register with the Ministry of Commerce
The Ministry of Commerce (MOC) is the primary authority for company setup. Once the application is submitted online with all required documents, the MOC issues a certificate of incorporation upon approval.
Step 5: Register for Tax
All businesses must register with the General Department of Taxation (GDT) to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). This registration enables companies to meet monthly and annual tax filing obligations.
Step 6: Register with Other Relevant Authorities
Depending on the business sector, additional approvals may be required. For example, construction, tourism, or financial services companies must secure licenses from sector-specific ministries.
Step 7: Open a Bank Account and Deposit Capital
A corporate bank account is required to conduct business transactions. Some entity types require minimum capital deposits to be made before operations begin.
Registering a company in Cambodia involves several important steps, from choosing the right structure to securing tax and sector-specific approvals. With careful planning and compliance, entrepreneurs can take full advantage of Cambodia’s business-friendly environment and position themselves for growth in one of Southeast Asia’s rising economies.
