AKP Phnom Pen, March 28, 2025 --

Cambodia has received widespread acclaim and encouragement for its trade policies following the successful conclusion of its third Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organization (WTO) headquarters in Geneva, according to the Ministry of Commerce. 

The three-day review, which began on Mar. 26, saw member nations commend Cambodia’s progress and commitment to international trade standards.

The meeting, conducted through both in-person and virtual participation via Zoom, focused on evaluating Cambodia’s trade policy report. Member nations scrutinised the country’s legal framework and regulatory compliance against WTO principles and standards, ensuring a conducive environment for economic and trade partnerships.

The WTO regularly monitors and reports on the trade policies of its member states, gathering data and inquiries from various countries to verify alignment with established guidelines. 

Cambodia addressed over 300 questions from WTO member states during this review.

The Trade Policy Review, mandated by WTO agreements, requires member countries to undergo periodic assessments of their trade and related policies. These reviews, conducted at specific intervals based on a nation's development level, also examine significant developments impacting the global trade system.

As a nation previously classified as a “Least Developed Country” (LDC), Cambodia was subject to reviews every seven years. However, due to its rapid economic growth and development, Cambodia is projected to graduate from LDC status by the end of 2029. 

This transition will necessitate adjustments in trade practices, including potential changes to preferential tariff systems.

In anticipation of this shift, the Royal Government of the 7th Legislature of the National Assembly, led by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, is actively strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and other sectors to maintain favourable trade conditions. 

The Prime Minister has emphasised the royal government’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and fostering trade partnerships for the benefit of the nation.

During the Trade Policy Review, João Aguiar Machado, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the European Union to the WTO, acknowledged Cambodia as one of the fastest-growing economies in the region, with trade playing a pivotal role in its development.

“As noted in the Secretariat’s report, Cambodia’s status as a Least Developed Country highlights a remarkable success story, where trade and WTO membership have significantly contributed to sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction,” Ambassador Machado stated.

The European Union praised Cambodia's dedication to the multilateral trading system and its constructive engagement within the WTO. They also welcomed Cambodia's participation in the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement and its active role in integrating the agreement into the WTO’s legal framework.

By K. Rithy Reak