Cambodian minister addresses OECD forum in Paris

Paris, 12 February 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Labour Minister Heng Sour has presented the country’s experience in monitoring compliance with human rights, environmental standards and workplace safety at the annual forum of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Speaking at the OECD Forum on Due Diligence in the Garment and Footwear Sector, Heng Sour outlined Cambodia’s efforts to promote sustainable development in its garment, footwear and travel goods industry – a key driver of economic growth, employment and poverty reduction.

He said progress had been achieved through government policy initiatives and enforcement of legal provisions on human rights and environmental protection across supply chains.

The minister highlighted cooperation with international partners, including the International Labour Organization and Germany’s GIZ development agency. Cambodia was the first country to implement the ILO’s Better Factories programme, later replicated elsewhere.

Heng Sour also cited reforms to modernise labour inspections, strengthen freedom of association, maintain the Arbitration Council, promote gender equality and improve workplace environmental management.

He stressed that legal compliance monitoring should be seen not as a burden but as an opportunity to enhance competitiveness and deepen Cambodia’s integration into global supply chains.