Cambodian Senate Urges Calm Amid Celebrity Contract Dispute

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Aug. 18, 2025) — Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen on Monday called on Cambodians to remain calm and avoid hasty reactions following a reported contract termination between a major beverage company and local celebrity Vanda.

In a public statement, Samdech Hun Sen urged citizens to consider the broader economic and diplomatic consequences before engaging in boycotts or protests.

“We must first understand whether the company ended its contract with Vanda because of his love for the nation or for other reasons,” Hun Sen said. “Even though Coca-Cola is an American brand, its products manufactured in Cambodia are Cambodian products — made by Cambodian workers, contributing to national revenue and economic growth.”

Samdech Hun Sen warned that if the company were to withdraw from Cambodia, the country would suffer economically, while adversaries would benefit. He cited previous threats targeting Cambodia’s energy and digital infrastructure, noting that the government had already taken steps to reduce dependency and mitigate external pressure.

“I do not oppose boycotting products made in Thailand,” he said. “But if Coca-Cola is produced in Cambodia, refusing to consume it would hurt Cambodian workers and reduce both direct and indirect income for our people and the state.”

Beyond economic concerns, Hun Sen cautioned that the situation could escalate into a diplomatic issue, potentially affecting trade, investment, and bilateral relations between Cambodia and the United States.

“Do not fall into the trap set by our adversaries,” he said. “Even Thai companies investing in Cambodia should be protected and supported — it is in our national interest.”

Coca-Cola officially opened its new $100 million production facility in Cambodia on, located in the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone. The plant spans 12.5 hectares and replaced the December 5, 2016company’s previous facility in Russey Keo, which had been operating since 1993.

The new factory was designed to meet growing demand in Cambodia and the ASEAN region, and is operated almost entirely by Cambodian staff. It features advanced production technology and environmental upgrades, including solar energy systems.