Cambodia Introduces New Measures to Prevent the Importation of Goods Produced by Forced Labor

July 29, 2026

On July 1, 2026, the Ministry of Economy and Finance issued Interministerial Prakas No. 450 introducing a legal framework to govern the importation of goods suspected of being produced by forced labor. It establishes procedures for investigation, verification, and enforcement, and sets out the responsibilities of importers and the competent authorities in ensuring compliance.

Per the Interministerial Prakas, the term “forced labor” refers to any work or service exacted from a person under the threat of a penalty and for which that person has not offered themself voluntarily, which is consistent with the definition under the Cambodian Labor Law.

Import prohibition

The Interministerial Prakas applies to all imported goods suspected of being produced, extracted, harvested, manufactured, processed, or assembled, in whole or in part, through the use of forced labor.

Goods found to be associated with forced labor at any stage of the supply chain are prohibited from being:

• Imported into Cambodia;
• Used or circulated within Cambodia; and
• Supplied or distributed to the Cambodian market.

Importers whose goods become subject to investigation are required to submit an explanation and supporting evidence within 10 working days from the date of receiving official notification of such. Supporting documentation may include:

• Proof of the origin of the goods and production location
• Details of the manufacturers and other entities in the supply chain
• Details of the production, extraction, harvesting, processing, assembly, or other relevant manufacturing activities
• Purchase agreements, payment records, ownership transfer documents, and other relevant commercial documents
• Compliance audit reports, due diligence assessments, or other evidence demonstrating that the goods are not associated with forced labor

Where imported goods are determined to be associated with forced labor, the goods will be prohibited as mentioned above. In addition, importers may be subject to further administrative measures, including:

• Suspension of import and export activities.
• Suspension of the issuance of certificates of origin.
• Other measures as may be imposed under applicable laws and regulations.

Importers are encouraged to review supplier contracts, compliance audit reports, and supply chain traceability mechanisms to ensure they can respond promptly to any investigation initiated by the competent authorities.