Catalyzing Asian Women’s Entrepreneurship in the E-Commerce Ecosystem: A Case Report and Policy Analysis of Cambodia

Advancements in information and communication technology (ICT) provide tremendous potential for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to utilize e-commerce and enhance their digital business practices. In Southeast Asia, the regional digital economy has witnessed a surging increase in electronic businesses (e-businesses) on both social media and e-commerce platforms. Since the emergence of COVID-19, female entrepreneurs increasingly utilize and optimize social media and e-commerce platforms to sustain and innovate their business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) activities. This study aims to provide a case report and policy analysis of Cambodia concerning its entrepreneurial landscape for women conducting e-businesses. The key findings provide a narrative analysis of the salient features and characteristics of the e-commerce environment of Cambodia, as well as the existing opportunities, challenges, and initiatives for women-led MSMEs. The commentary discussion highlights certain policy recommendations surrounding the issues of data collection and research efforts, business registration and formalization, access to digital training, access to finance, incentivization and support, and digital infrastructure.