🇰🇭 Cambodia · reviewed 2026-10-09
Can foreigners own a business or franchise in Cambodia?
Yes, and more freely than in most of the region. A foreign brand can own its operating company outright; the limit is land, which foreigners cannot own, so stores run on leases.
Ownership rules
Sub-decree 139 of 2023 lists activities that cannot receive investment incentives; it is not a cap on foreign shareholding.
- The 2021 Law on Investment allows up to 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, and food service and retail are not listed as restricted. Secondary · Chambers Investing In 2026: Cambodia, 2026-01-20
- Foreigners cannot own land. They use long-term or perpetual leases, and a company that holds land must be at least 51% Cambodian-owned. Secondary · Chambers Investing In 2026: Cambodia, 2026-01-20
Structures franchisors use
- Master franchise to a Cambodian company that already runs food service or retail, with the agreement recorded at the Ministry of Commerce.
- Wholly foreign-owned operating company for flagship stores, on leased premises.
- Joint venture with a Cambodian partner where premises need to be owned rather than leased.
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