Government to invest US$10 million in EV charging stations across Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, May 25, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s government will invest at least US$10 million to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure nationwide as the Kingdom accelerates its transition to cleaner transport, officials said.

Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak said state utility Electricité du Cambodge (EDC) has been tasked with leading the rollout.

“We have already approved more than 170 charging stations, and every week I sign permissions for private sector operators to open more,” he said.

Rottanak noted that current infrastructure remains insufficient to meet future demand, prompting the government to provide initial funding support. The plan extends beyond household vehicles to commercial fleets, including delivery vans, refrigerated trucks and large container trucks.

He said Cambodia is preparing for high-voltage fast-charging stations along major transport corridors, including routes linking Phnom Penh with key logistics and economic zones. EDC has also been instructed to strengthen electricity supply along national highways to support the network.

“Technically it can be done, but the investment cost is still significant,” Rottanak said, adding that private firms may hesitate to invest in costly heavy-duty charging facilities without state backing.

EV adoption has been rising rapidly. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport reported 1,676 new registrations in March alone, including 1,293 cars. As of March 2026, Cambodia had more than 16,200 EVs nationwide, spanning cars, motorcycles and three-wheelers.

Officials said growing environmental awareness and government policies aimed at cutting emissions and improving air quality are driving the transition. Cambodia has set a target of 30,000 EVs by 2030 as part of its broader sustainable transport and energy security strategy.