Cambodia and Japan Boost Climate and Waste Cooperation under Joint Credit Mechanism

PHNOM PENH, Feb 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and Japan have agreed to deepen cooperation on climate change and waste management under the Joint Credit Mechanism (JCM), following talks in Tokyo, officials said Tuesday.

Cambodian Environment Minister Eang Sophalleth met his Japanese counterpart Ishihara Hirotaka on February 16, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to expanding collaboration aimed at supporting Cambodia’s transition to low carbon, sustainable development.

Six priority areas were identified, including continued implementation of JCM and biomass projects, climate action within ASEAN, support for Cambodia’s national adaptation plan and early warning systems,

waste recycling and waste to energy initiatives, public awareness campaigns on waste reduction and biodegradable products, and exchange of expertise in national park management.

Signed in 2014, the JCM promotes investment in low carbon technologies and infrastructure, enabling both countries to cooperate on emissions reduction projects while advancing sustainable growth.

Earlier the same day, Sophalleth also signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Japan Federation of Shiho Shoshi Lawyer Associations to strengthen environmental law enforcement, transparency in permitting, and institutional frameworks for resource management.