Prime Minister Hun Manet orders crackdown on smuggled, substandard goods

PHNOM PENH, June 27, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has ordered authorities to intensify inspections and enforcement against smuggled, tax-evading and substandard goods, calling for coordinated action against importers and distributors.

The directive was issued during a Cabinet meeting on Friday, according to a government statement summarising the session.

Hun Manet told ministers that stronger oversight was needed to protect consumers and ensure fair competition in the market.

He instructed officials at all levels to step up checks on goods that evade taxes or fail to meet quality standards. Enforcement, he said, must be firm, fair and transparent, with particular focus on those responsible for importing and distributing such products.

Consumer goods were singled out because of their impact on public health, while high-value items were highlighted for their potential to distort competition and undermine legitimate businesses.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also urged agencies to communicate enforcement measures clearly and promptly to the public.

He said transparency would help ensure citizens understand the government’s objectives and reduce the risk of confusion or misinformation.

The prime minister stressed that coordinated action was essential to safeguard both economic stability and public welfare.