Cambodia Tightens Customs Enforcement While Cutting Trade Costs

PHNOM PENH, April 29, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has rolled out a comprehensive package of customs reforms aimed at strengthening enforcement against tax evasion while reducing trade costs to support a fairer business environment, officials said Wednesday.

The measures, introduced by the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE), form part of broader government efforts to improve public sector governance and address long standing inefficiencies in trade administration.

Kun Nhem, Director General of GDCE, said the reforms were designed to be “firm and practical,” targeting fraud across the supply chain while improving transparency and accountability. Controls will be intensified on high risk goods through secure tax stamps with QR codes, stricter penalties for violations, and streamlined inspection processes by removing unnecessary checkpoints.

At the same time, the government is expanding trade facilitation measures, including digital platforms such as ASYHUB and the National Single Window, and incentives for compliant businesses under Authorized Economic Operator programs.

To ease costs, Cambodia will abolish container scanning fees from May 1, a move expected to reduce logistics expenses and improve efficiency.

The dual approach — combining tougher enforcement with facilitation — is intended to boost revenue collection while creating a more transparent, competitive and investor friendly trade environment.

They added that the reforms reflect Cambodia’s commitment to modernising customs practices in line with international standards and supporting the country’s integration into regional and global supply chains.