Cambodia, Hong Kong sign MoU to strengthen competition law enforcement

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov.12, 2025) — Cambodia and Hong Kong signed a memorandum of understanding Wednesday to deepen cooperation on competition policy and law enforcement, marking a new step in regulatory collaboration between the two economies.

The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Commerce by Cambodian Commerce Minister Cham Nimul, who chairs the Cambodia Competition Commission (CCC), and Samuel Chan, chairman of the Hong Kong Competition Commission (HKCC).

The MoU establishes a formal framework for information exchange, technical collaboration and capacity building aimed at improving the implementation and enforcement of competition law in both jurisdictions.

Nimul emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation, saying no competition authority can succeed in isolation. She described the agreement as a forward-looking commitment aligned with international best practices, and noted that fair competition drives innovation, efficiency and consumer welfare.

The partnership is expected to enhance coordination, promote consistency in enforcement and prevent overlapping actions in cross-border cases.

Cambodia and Hong Kong maintain strong trade ties, with bilateral trade reaching over $1.7 billion in 2024, according to official data. Hong Kong serves as a key gateway for Cambodian exports, particularly garments, footwear and agricultural products, while Cambodia imports electronics, machinery and consumer goods from Hong Kong.

Officials said the MoU will support broader efforts to promote open, transparent markets and sustainable economic growth.

A Hong Kong delegation led by Chief Executive John Lee signed 13 MoUs with Cambodian counterparts in July 2024 to boost cooperation in trade, investment, innovation, transport, and finance. The visit aimed to deepen economic ties and included plans to open a new HKTDC consultant office in Phnom Penh.