Samdech Techo Hun Sen warns against illegal Thai imports, urges crackdown on smuggling

PHNOM PENH, June 13, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen has warned against the illegal import of Thai goods, calling for stronger enforcement against suspected smuggling and questioning how new Thai products continue to appear in local markets despite the closure of land borders.

Posting on social media Saturday, Hun Sen said the situation may stem from “misinterpretation, deliberate misunderstanding, violations, corruption, or insults against one’s own nation” by dishonest officials and traders.

He stressed that as long as the land border remains closed, any goods entering via land routes should be considered unlawful. “When the land border is closed, people cannot cross, and goods cannot cross either,” he said.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen noted that goods transported by sea and air remain subject to normal customs procedures, with authorities responsible for determining legality.

He urged stricter enforcement against goods allegedly entering through land crossings, insisting that legitimate trade is impossible under a fully closed border.

He dismissed claims that the products were leftover stock, pointing out that some items appeared to have been manufactured in 2026. “If they were truly leftover stock, they would likely already be expired,” he said.

He added that consumers hold power in the marketplace and should avoid purchases that “allow themselves or the nation to be disrespected.”

Samdech Techo Hun Sen’s remarks highlight growing concerns over smuggling and corruption, with authorities under pressure to safeguard Cambodia’s economy, protect domestic producers and ensure border restrictions are respected amid regional trade tensions.