Cambodia Removes Container Fees in Bid to Lower Logistics Costs and Boost Investor Confidence

PHNOM PENH, May 8, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia has officially scrapped container scanning fees in a bid to reduce logistics costs, facilitate trade and strengthen investor confidence amid global economic uncertainty, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol said Thursday.

Speaking at the Cambodia Investment Forum 2026, themed “Beyond Investment: Strengthening Resilience Through Proactive Aftercare and Strategic Partnership,” Chanthol said the government began implementing the full removal of scanning charges on May 1.

He described the measure as a key step to lower costs and improve the business environment, noting that logistics expenses remain a critical factor in regional competitiveness.

Chanthol acknowledged Cambodia faces multiple external challenges, including U.S. reciprocal tariff measures, tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border, rising global fuel prices linked to Middle East conflict, and preparations for graduation from Least Developed Country status in 2029. These risks, he said, pose direct and indirect threats to economic stability but also create opportunities for closer government–private sector cooperation to ensure predictability and resilience.

Despite global headwinds, Cambodia’s economy has maintained annual growth of around 5 percent, with strong momentum forecast for 2026. Investment flows remain robust: the Council for the Development of Cambodia approved a record 630 projects worth US$10 billion in 2025, up more than 40 percent from 2024. In the first four months of 2026 alone, 184 projects worth US$2.6 billion were approved.

Chanthol, also First Vice Chairman of the Council, highlighted the role of special economic zones in diversifying industry beyond garments and footwear. New sectors expanding within SEZs include vehicle assembly, automotive parts, electronics, electrical equipment, furniture and decorative products. Cambodia currently has 35 operational SEZs nationwide, which he said are helping to anchor industrial diversification and attract long term investment.