Cambodia, U.K. sign MoU to support regulatory impact assessment reform

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.12, 2025) — Cambodia and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding Thursday aimed at supporting reforms in regulatory impact assessments (RIA), a move officials say will strengthen governance and promote sustainable development.

Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Visoth, who also serves as Minister in Charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers and chair of the RIA reform commission, presided over the signing ceremony. The agreement was signed between Cambodia’s Council of Ministers and the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, represented by British Ambassador Dominic Williams.

Williams said RIAs are essential for protecting citizens, ensuring standards, facilitating private sector activity, and promoting fair and effective competition. He emphasized the U.K.’s commitment to supporting Cambodia’s development and strengthening rule of law through broader and deeper cooperation.

“This initiative is part of our ongoing support for Cambodia’s reform efforts,” Williams said. “It reflects our shared commitment to good governance and inclusive growth.”
Visoth described the MoU as a milestone in Cambodia’s reform agenda, aimed at improving the drafting of laws and regulations with greater intelligence and institutional resilience. He said the agreement will help build capacity across four ministries and institutions through training and e-learning programs focused on assessing the economic, social, and environmental impacts of proposed legislation and policies.

He added that the RIA framework is designed to ensure coherence in legal drafting, reduce regulatory burdens, and foster a level playing field for business and investment. “This will enhance Cambodia’s competitiveness and improve the livelihoods of its people,” Visoth said.

The deputy prime minister also referenced past efforts under former Prime Minister Hun Sen, who in 2016 issued a directive establishing RIA working groups across ministries. He noted that the current government, led by Prime Minister Hun Manet, remains committed to strengthening the rule of law, citing a 2024 sub-decree requiring stakeholder consultations and impact assessments for all legal documents.

Visoth expressed gratitude to the U.K. government and its embassy in Cambodia, as well as to the Economic, Social and Cultural Council, legal advisors, and the RIA working group for their contributions to the reform process.