US eliminates 19% tariff on Cambodian goods; imposes 15% temporary duty

US eliminates 19% tariff on Cambodian goods; imposes 15% temporary duty Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol announced that a 19% countervailing duty on Cambodian goods has been automatically eliminated following a U.S. Supreme Court decision. However, under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, the United States has introduced a temporary 15% additional duty on top of the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) base rates. This new tariff applies to Cambodia and several other nations for a duration of 150 days. While the immediate burden has shifted, the long-term trade outlook remains uncertain. Cambodia is currently awaiting further executive decisions from President Donald Trump, which are expected to outline more permanent trade restrictions once the initial 150-day period concludes. (Source: Khmer Times)

Government pledges fuel subsidies amid rising price risks from the Middle East crisis The Royal Government of Cambodia has pledged to intervene with fuel subsidies if global crude prices exceed specific thresholds due to Middle East tensions. Ministry of Commerce spokesperson Penn Sovicheat stated that while Cambodia imports all its fuel, the government will reduce retail prices by one cent per litre if international gasoline hits $90 per barrel or diesel reaches $100 per barrel. Currently, gasoline and diesel are priced at 3,850 Riel per litre. To mitigate immediate shocks, Cambodia maintains a one-month strategic oil reserve. Although the closure of global shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz poses a risk, the ministry assured that existing stocks, primarily sourced from Singapore and Vietnam, remain sufficient for the current market. (Source: Khmer Times)

Prime Minister says Cambodia is emerging as ASEAN's green manufacturing hub Prime Minister Hun Manet has positioned Cambodia as a burgeoning Green Manufacturing Hub within ASEAN, emphasizing the nation's shift toward high-end industries. Speaking at the ASEAN-Cambodia Business Summit 2026, he highlighted that 62% of Cambodia's energy currently comes from renewables, with a target of 70% by 2030. This clean energy integration aims to help multinational corporations meet global ESG targets and the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) requirements. In 2025, the Council for the Development of Cambodia approved $10 billion in new projects, reflecting a 45% increase. This capital influx signals a strategic pivot from garment production toward electronics, automotive clusters, and agro-industry, supported by robust Special Economic Zone (SEZ) infrastructure. (Source: Khmer Times)