PHNOM PENH -- The Sichuan-Cambodia business forum was held here Monday, aimed to broaden trade and investment ties between Cambodia and China, officials said.

The half-day forum brought together business executives from 40 enterprises in Southwest China's Sichuan province and about 50 Cambodian company representatives.

Chhuon Dara, secretary of state of the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce, said the forum was crucial to further strengthen friendly relations and deepen trade and investment cooperation between Cambodia and China.

"I believe that through the forum, more Chinese entrepreneurs will consider expanding their businesses to Cambodia," he said.

According to the official, trade volume between Cambodia and China is expected to reach nearly $4 billion in 2015 and $5 billion in 2017.

At the event, Cambodian officials also introduced the country's investment potential and laws to the Chinese participants.