Logistics remain functional despite border tensions, EuroCham says

Logistics remain functional despite border tensions, EuroCham says

Cambodia’s logistics sector has shown resilience in managing potential disruption risks, says EuroCham. The chamber lauds logistics operators and supply-chain professionals for maintaining the continuity of essential goods transportation.

Cambodia’s logistics and supply chains remain operational despite rising concerns over potential disruptions linked to the recent escalation of Thai-Cambodian tensions, the European Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (EuroCham) said on Tuesday.

In a statement issued on December 16, EuroCham said it is closely monitoring the security situation along the Thai-Cambodian border and maritime developments in the Gulf of Thailand, following warnings from international partners about possible impacts on regional trade corridors.

“Based on consultations with our transport, logistics and supply-chain members, EuroCham is not aware of any confirmed obstructions or operational issues affecting the movement of goods to and from Cambodia at this time,” the chamber said, adding that members have so far reported no disruption to maritime transit, port access and docking, cargo handling or onward trucking.

EuroCham noted, however, that fuel supply and pricing will be closely watched as the situation continues to evolve.

The chamber also pointed out that under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), vessels of all states enjoy the right of innocent passage through territorial seas, subject to international rules.

It added that Thai public communications referring to the designation of a “high-risk area” and tighter controls on Thai-flagged vessels have not been presented as a general closure or blockade affecting third-country shipping.

Cambodia’s logistics sector has shown resilience in managing potential disruption risks, EuroCham said, citing route diversification and operational adjustments by industry players. The chamber commended logistics operators, carriers, freight forwarders and supply-chain professionals for maintaining the continuity of essential goods transportation.

The chamber’s priority is to provide its members and the wider business community with a clear, operational assessment amid heightened regional uncertainty.

Separately, EuroCham announced its support for UNICEF Cambodia’s fundraising appeal to assist children and families affected by the recent escalation. The appeal aims to provide food, healthcare, clean water and sanitation, learning materials and mental health support at temporary sites.

EuroCham said it will continue engaging with committee leaders, sectoral members, relevant government ministries and international partners to ensure timely and transparent information for businesses, encouraging members to raise trade and logistics concerns through its established channels.

Speaking to Khmer Times, Riccardo Corrado, Vice Chair of ItaCham Cambodia, said the chamber is maintaining active coordination with EuroCham Cambodia, particularly through its Transport and Logistics Committee, which brings together major operators across regional supply chains.

“At this stage, based on direct feedback from our logistics and importing members, operations are continuing normally,” Riccardo said, adding that there have been no confirmed obstructions affecting the movement of goods to and from Cambodia.

He cited input from leading logistics provider Savino Del Bene, as well as Italian food and beverage importers Buonissimo and Ideal, all of whom have reported business-as-usual conditions despite heightened regional attention on border developments.

Riccardo said ItaCham, as a national chapter of EuroCham, is maintaining regular information exchanges through sectoral committees and member networks, while also monitoring potential indirect impacts that could affect trade flows.

“These include fuel supply and pricing dynamics, as well as insurance risk premiums, which can influence logistics costs even in the absence of physical disruptions,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Riccardo said ItaCham hopes for a de-escalation of tensions to avoid any negative impact on people and businesses, while ensuring members receive timely and accurate guidance should conditions change.

The chamber is also supporting preparations for the upcoming Italian Expo at Koh Pich, scheduled for February 4 and 5, 2026. Corrado said several containers are expected to arrive ahead of the event, expressing optimism that the situation will be fully resolved in time for the exhibition.

Cambodia’s exports to the European Union (EU) reached $4.21 billion in the January-October period of 2025, marking an increase of nearly 17.3 percent from $3.59 billion during the same period last year, according to a recent report from the Ministry of Commerce.

The report stated that EU-bound exports accounted for 16.3 percent of Cambodia’s total exports of $25.90 billion.

Spain, Germany and the Netherlands emerged as Cambodia’s largest trade partners within the EU, with bilateral trade volumes of $1 billion, $933 million and $844 million, respectively. Other EU markets for Cambodian goods include France and Belgium.

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