Cambodia Strengthens EV Safety Standards Through New Partnership with China’s CATARC

SHENZHEN, May 29, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is stepping up efforts to tighten electric vehicle (EV) safety standards through a new partnership with China’s China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC), officials said Thursday, as EV adoption accelerates nationwide.

The agreement, signed between the Institute of Standards of Cambodia and CATARC, covers joint research into EV safety regulations, technical standards and consumer protection measures.

Authorities said the cooperation aims to improve EV quality, align national standards with international practices and prepare regulatory frameworks for the country’s fast‑growing market.

Cambodia has seen a sharp rise in EV registrations, with more than 16,200 vehicles recorded nationwide as of March 2026, including cars, motorcycles and three‑wheelers. In March alone, 1,676 new EVs were registered, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation has also introduced new safety requirements for producers, importers and distributors. Companies must now provide Khmer‑language safety guidelines, educational videos and customer training covering risks such as battery fires, overheating, electrical short circuits, flooding and system failures.

The Cambodia‑CATARC partnership will support green energy adoption, sustainable transport systems and stronger consumer protection, in line with Cambodia’s long‑term industrial and environmental goals.