Cambodia’s PM Unveils Labor Reform Agenda to Boost Decent Work

PHNOM PENH, April 26, 2026 (KPT) — Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has outlined a sweeping labor reform agenda aimed at strengthening worker protections, expanding social safety nets and promoting inclusive economic growth, as Cambodia marked the 140th anniversary of International Workers’ Day.

Addressing more than 5,400 representatives from unions, the informal economy and professional associations on Sunday, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of workers nationwide.

Under the theme “Together Building Resilience for Decent Work,” the premier set out five priorities: expanding employment services and job-matching systems, tightening enforcement of labor laws and dispute resolution, broadening social protection coverage, deepening cooperation with social partners and international bodies, and enhancing coordination among ministries to monitor labor conditions and expand opportunities.

The agenda comes as Cambodia’s labor market shows resilience. Official figures indicate that of nearly 950,000 workers returning from Thailand, about 620,000 have been reintegrated into jobs and livelihoods, with roughly half entering formal employment.

Cambodia’s formal workforce surpassed 2 million in 2025, up more than 400,000 from the previous year, while the number of enterprises nationwide reached 46,649, including 1,867 garment factories.