Cambodian Cabinet approves ASEAN mutual recognition agreement

PHNOM PENH, June 27, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia’s Cabinet has approved a draft law to ratify the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs), a step the government says will facilitate regional trade and deepen the country’s integration into the ASEAN single market.

The decision was taken during a full Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh on June 26, according to an official statement.

The framework agreement, which contains 16 articles, sets out common principles and guidelines for ASEAN sectoral committees and product working groups under the ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and Quality (ACCSQ).

Officials said the agreement provides a foundation for developing sector-specific MRAs, enabling member states to recognise products and services more easily across the region.

It is expected to serve as a reference for Cambodian negotiators and regulators during future talks and implementation processes.

The government noted that the framework will help reduce compliance costs for businesses by limiting the need for repeated certification, testing and inspections.

It will also strengthen the capacity of Cambodia’s certification bodies, testing laboratories and inspection agencies to meet regional standards, while promoting fair competition.

By creating a unified basis for recognition, the agreement is seen as a key step toward building a single ASEAN market.

Cambodian officials said it would allow goods to move more freely within the bloc, supporting trade growth and enhancing the country’s participation in regional economic integration.