Cambodia Pushes Aviation Reforms as Ministers Review Key Air Transport Agreements

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 28, 2025) — Cambodia is moving toward a major expansion of air connectivity as Prime Minister Hun Manet on Friday chaired a plenary session of the Council of Ministers focused on draft laws and agreements tied to the aviation sector.

The meeting reviewed several critical legal instruments, including draft legislation to approve a comprehensive air transport agreement between ASEAN and the European Union, the Third Protocol expanding fifth-freedom traffic rights between ASEAN and China, and protocols implementing Packages 11 and 12 of air transport services under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services.

Officials said the measures are designed to strengthen Cambodia’s integration into regional and global aviation networks, expand route rights and improve air transport competitiveness.

The Council also examined two additional agenda items: the draft National Policy on Rural Development 2025–2035 and the 2024 national progress report on Cambodia’s response to HIV/AIDS.

The focus on aviation comes two days after the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation announced it was seeking government approval for three international aviation agreements with the EU, China and ASEAN. Minister Mao Havannall confirmed all draft laws have been finalized and will soon be submitted for review.

Together, the moves signal Cambodia’s intent to position itself as a connected, competitive aviation hub supporting tourism, trade and long-term growth.