Cambodia adopts 21 global benchmarks to boost growth

Cambodia adopts 21 global benchmarks to boost growth

By applying these standards, Cambodian businesses can better integrate into domestic and international supply chains, says Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation.

Cambodia has taken another decisive step in aligning its economy with global benchmarks after the National Standards Council (NSC) approved the adoption of 21 new international standards at its 31st meeting, chaired by Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation and Chairman of the Council.

The newly adopted standards, derived from ISO, IEC, and ISO/IEC, cover a wide spectrum of industries, including chemicals, energy management, electrical and electronic products, automotive components, cosmetics, bamboo furniture, and textiles.

Officials emphasised that the adoption would strengthen both consumer safety and the competitiveness of Cambodian products.

“These standards are vital foundations for Cambodia’s progress and the sovereignty of our manufacturing sector, particularly at a time of strong national unity and support for local products,” Minister Vanndy told the Council.

“By applying these standards, Cambodian businesses can better integrate into domestic and international supply chains while safeguarding public health, promoting consumer safety, and enhancing the overall competitiveness of our industry,” he added.

Alongside the adoption of the new standards, the Council endorsed the formation of three new national committees to strengthen Cambodia’s participation in international standardisation platforms such as ISO, IEC, and Codex Alimentarius.

This development is part of a broader government strategy as Cambodia prepares to become a full ISO member and an associate IEC member by 2026, a move widely seen as essential to ensuring the country keeps pace with global trade requirements.

Speaking to Khmer Times, Lor Vichet, Vice President of the Cambodia Chinese Commerce Association, welcomed the initiative but stressed that Cambodia’s private sector must accelerate formalisation to benefit fully.

“Aligning Cambodia’s business standards with regional and international requirements is crucial,” he said. “However, the current business landscape is still dominated by informal Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which lack the frameworks to meet global standards.”

Vichet explained that compliance will demand more than technical alignment. “To achieve compliance with international and global standards, informal economies must transform into formal economies. This means businesses must undergo proper registration, secure sufficient capital, and adopt modern technology to ensure they meet both regional and international conditions,” he noted.

The business leader underlined that while challenges remain, the adoption of standards represents a milestone. “This sends a strong message to local entrepreneurs and foreign investors that Cambodia is dedicated to fostering a business-friendly climate where local enterprises can grow and compete on a global scale,” Vichet added.

Analysts observe that the Council’s decision is part of Cambodia’s wider economic reform agenda, which has placed strong emphasis on diversifying exports, enhancing industrial safety, and creating an environment conducive to high-value investment. By encouraging companies to adopt international standards, the government aims to reduce technical barriers to trade while reassuring investors of product quality and safety.

Vichet emphasised that the move also reflects the government’s determination to modernise the economy through structural reforms. “This step demonstrates that the government is serious about aligning Cambodia’s economic policies with regional and international trends, ensuring sustainable growth and attracting quality investments,” he said.

Observers say that the introduction of internationally recognised standards will help Cambodian products gain stronger recognition in regional and global markets, particularly at a time when ASEAN integration and global supply chain participation are accelerating. For domestic consumers, the move promises higher product quality and better protection, while for businesses, it opens new opportunities for export competitiveness and investor confidence.

The adoption of 21 standards and the creation of national committees mark an important chapter in Cambodia’s journey towards industrial modernisation. While challenges such as SME formalisation and technological adoption remain pressing, policymakers and business leaders agree that this is a significant milestone in ensuring Cambodia’s industries not only meet global expectations but also thrive in an increasingly competitive international arena.

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