On September 20th, during an interview, Liu Jianhua, a notable Chinese entrepreneur originally from Hunan and now living in Cambodia, opened up about his remarkable journey in establishing a successful packaging business in a new environment.
Having moved to Cambodia in 2011 from Hengyang, Hunan, Liu ventured into an entirely new industry. Over the last 13 years, he has turned his initial investment into a dominant force in Cambodia’s packaging sector, with annual sales exceeding $100 million across six companies. By integrating advanced technology and innovative business concepts, Liu has not only modernized local packaging practices but also elevated manufacturing standards throughout the region.
At 47, Liu’s focus extends beyond mere profit; he is actively involved in cultural and philanthropic efforts that promote development for his fellow countrymen in Cambodia while simultaneously generating job opportunities for the local community.
Reflecting on his adjustment period in Cambodia, Liu reminisced about his first taste of local rice noodle dishes, which evoked memories of home. “Finding a bowl of hot noodles in a foreign land was comforting,” he recalled. However, he noted that the milder flavors starkly contrasted with the bold, spicy tastes he missed from Hunan. Each bowl of noodles brought back memories of his father’s cooking, particularly a dish that was a staple in his childhood.
Liu grew up with a father who was a Korean War veteran, and he instilled in Liu core values such as honesty and hard work. Liu vividly remembers a summer trip to the city with his father, where they experienced the vibrancy of urban life alongside the challenges of sleeping on uneven ground. “Watching my father face hardships taught us to be hopeful and self-sufficient,” he shared.
These foundational values sparked Liu’s entrepreneurial spirit early on. During school breaks, he would sell various products in rural areas, treating himself to Hengyang’s famous fish noodles after earning a profit.
In 2011, at 34 years old, Liu attended a charity event at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, where he met local factory owners. Recognizing the potential in Cambodia’s underdeveloped packaging industry, he decided to invest his savings and take a leap into entrepreneurship. “I encountered language barriers and an unfamiliar environment, but my determination pushed me forward,” Liu reflected. Riding his motorcycle, he personally delivered box samples to potential clients, eventually founding Yongcheng Packaging Co., in which he landed contracts with notable companies like Nike and Walmart.
Liu’s determination led to rapid expansion; he now runs six companies and employs over 500 locals, with projected revenues surpassing $100 million by 2024.
He credits his success to the integrity his father taught him. “My father always emphasized honesty and never cutting corners,” he recounted. He shared how his father avoided accepting free meals at celebrations to emphasize fairness and ethics. These principles guide Liu’s business practices, promoting transparency and environmental stewardship. He has instituted strict eco-friendly measures and maintains a clean, comfortable workspace, embodying the belief that honesty is more than just words.
His Cambodian team has also embraced these values, with local chefs now expertly preparing authentic Hunan dishes, fostering a sense of community among the employees.
Today, Liu’s products are distributed in countries such as China, Japan, Canada, and Singapore. He keeps the lines of communication open with local authorities and is involved in community support initiatives, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, he has taken steps to assist local farmers by improving access to clean drinking water.
In 2023, Liu was appointed Executive President of the Hunan Business Association in Cambodia, an important organization committed to enhancing bilateral relations through various initiatives and collaborative efforts.
Despite his achievements abroad, Liu’s heart remains deeply connected to his roots in Hengyang. He returns home at least six times a year, enjoying local delicacies and pondering ways to give back to his hometown. As he prepares to attend the Hunan Tourism Development Conference from September 20 to 22, Liu is optimistic about discovering investment opportunities that could support his community’s development while furthering his entrepreneurial journey back home.
