Serious business question
I have this business vision in mind and I would like to know other people (preferably Khmer) opinions. So far, I spent 3 months in Cambodia and more I know the country the more I’m impressed. Not just by cultural heritage, beautiful nature and rich history, but mostly by its people. They work hard and with dedication to build better future for themselves and their kids. And if I’m going to make this country my new home I feel I should contribute as well. Not just by spending money and being nice and polite guest, but by actually building something here.
I would like to start an electronics engineering company in Cambodia. Research, development and manufacturing of hi-end cutting edge products like aerospace flight control systems, components for scientific instruments, satellite components and sensors for industrial use. Contract work for foreign customers in Europe and US. I have the experience and know-how both in engineering and business to pull this off. I even have some potential clients already.
My goal (or a dream) is to create high paying job opportunities for local talents, so they can gain experience and skills necessary to build their own spin-off companies and ultimately recreate (at least to some extend) Shockley effect that led to creation of the Silicon Valley in the 1960s.
I realize there are huge obstacles in the way. Almost non-existing ecosystem of component suppliers and contractors to delegate tasks like ultra precision machining, high tariffs for imported components and equipment, political shenanigans, me being a foreigner, a female in male-centric industry and speaking only few Khmer phrases, just to name a few. They are many countries with better conditions to do this than Cambodia. But I truly believe in this country and its people and I’m ready to work hard in order to turn this into reality. Do I have a chance?