Cambodia Senate Backs $10 Billion Budget, Tax Deals to Bolster Regional Growth

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 5, 2025) — Cambodia’s Senate has unanimously approved a $10 billion national budget for 2026, alongside key international tax agreements aimed at strengthening regional economic cooperation and improving the investment climate.

The approvals came during the Senate’s 4th Plenary Session, chaired by Acting Senate President Ouch Borith, with all 58 senators present. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Aun Pornmoniroth delivered detailed responses before lawmakers endorsed both draft budget laws without amendment.

The 2026 Financial Management Law sets government expenditure at about $10 billion, a 7.8 percent increase from 2025, while state revenues are projected to reach $7.6 billion. Senators also approved the 2024 budget settlement report with unanimous support.

In a move underscoring Cambodia’s push for deeper regional integration, the chamber backed three international tax agreements: eliminating double taxation with Laos and the Philippines, and amending the existing agreement with Singapore.

Officials said the measures will reduce barriers to cross-border trade, enhance investor confidence, and reinforce Cambodia’s long-term growth agenda.

The approvals highlight the government’s effort to balance fiscal expansion with stronger regional economic ties as it pursues sustainable development.