Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s media advertising sector-including traditional media, digital platforms, billboards, and commercial events-generated a total expenditure of approximately US$440 million in 2024. The figure was revealed here this morning during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Information and the Cambodia Association of Media Advertising Agencies (CAMAA).

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information, stated that digital advertising accounted for US$170 million, while traditional media-comprising television, radio, and newspapers-received US$80 million. An estimated US$60 million was spent on billboard advertising, US$70 million on media advertising at commercial events, and another US$60 million was allocated as product and service rewards aimed at customer engagement and brand competition.

The event underscored the rapid evolution of Cambodia’s advertising landscape, highlighting the growth of digital platforms alongside the enduring relevance of traditional media and billboard marketing. ‘The significant spending on media advertising reflects not only robust business activity but also substantial contributions to the national economy, including tax revenues,’ said H.E. Neth Pheaktra.

The Ministry of Information also stressed the need for ethical advertising practices and legal compliance to uphold public order and consumer protection. ‘The Ministry, in collaboration with relevant institutions, calls on advertising companies to ensure that all commercial advertisements comply with national laws and regulations,’ the Minister added.

According to the latest report, Cambodia currently has 1,620 licensed media entities, including television and radio stations, newspapers, magazines, websites, and other online platforms. Among these, 875 are online TV outlets. CAMAA reports that 17 advertising companies are actively operating in Cambodia’s commercial advertising sector.