AI maturity in Cambodia: Individual usage and organizational deployment across SME firms and large corporations

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates individual AI use and organizational AI maturity among firms in Cambodia, focusing on differences between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations.

Methodology: The study adopts a quantitative, cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected from 168 respondents employed in SMEs, large firms, and multinational corporations across multiple industries in Cambodia.

Findings: The results indicate moderate levels of individual AI use but substantially lower organizational adoption. AI usage and investment intentions increase systematically with firm size. Overall, organizational AI maturity remains in an early stage, particularly in strategy, governance, and process integration.

Implications: The findings highlight the structural constraints SMEs face and underscore the importance of organizational capacity, leadership, and strategic alignment for fostering inclusive AI adoption.

Originality: This study offers empirical evidence on AI maturity in Cambodia, extending AI adoption research beyond high-income economies.

Limitations and Future Research: The cross-sectional design, self-reported data, and nonprobability sampling limit generalizability. Future research should employ mixed-methods approaches to examine organizational and institutional dynamics.