Cambodia Approves Amendment to ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Trade Pact

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.27, 2025) — Cambodia’s government has approved the second protocol to amend the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, or AANZFTA, in a move aimed at modernizing the regional trade pact and strengthening economic ties with key partners.

The decision was made during a plenary session of the Council of Ministers on Sept. 26, according to an official statement.

The amendment includes three articles and a protocol annex comprising 21 chapters — 18 of which revise existing provisions, while three introduce new areas of cooperation.

The updated agreement introduces reforms in trade in goods and services, investment, electronic commerce, rules of origin, customs procedures, competition policy and sustainable development. It also adds new provisions on government procurement and support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, or MSMEs.

Officials said the changes are intended to reflect evolving global business trends, promote trade facilitation and create a more transparent and predictable business environment.

The protocol also emphasizes inclusive growth by boosting MSME participation, enhancing cooperation in sustainable trade practices and supporting post-pandemic economic recovery.

Through expanded economic cooperation and technical assistance, the amended agreement aims to ensure all parties benefit from deeper market integration and stronger regional supply chains.

Originally signed in 2009, the AANZFTA is one of ASEAN’s most comprehensive trade agreements, covering goods, services, investment and economic cooperation among its members, Australia and New Zealand.