Cambodia’s Fuel Imports Fall as Green Energy, EV Adoption Accelerate

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 28, 2025) — Cambodia spent just over USD 1 billion on fuel imports in the first 10 months of 2025, an 11% drop from a year earlier, as the country pushes ahead with a rapid shift to cleaner energy and electric vehicles.

Commerce Ministry data show diesel imports fell 11.21% to USD 1.077 billion, while gasoline imports slid nearly 16% to USD 675 million. The decline reflects rising EV adoption and growing reliance on electricity across households, industries and transport.

Lim Heng, vice president of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, said fuel consumption is no longer a reliable measure of economic activity.

“People and factories are increasingly switching to electricity. EVs are now replacing many petrol-powered cars,” he said. “This shift does not affect economic growth — our economy continues to expand as green energy takes over.”

Renewables now supply more than 60% of Cambodia’s national power, with the government aiming for at least 70% by 2030. Hydropower, solar, wind and biomass are expected to play a larger role in development.

Energy Minister Keo Rottanak said the transition is already delivering benefits. “As we generate more electricity from renewable sources, we see the real advantages of sustainable energy — from green buildings and efficient appliances to electric vehicles and the electrification of agriculture and industry,” he said.

Despite the current decline in petroleum imports, the ministry projects overall fuel demand could reach 4.8 million tonnes by 2030, driven by population growth and industrial expansion.