Cambodia Prepares for LDC Graduation with Enhanced Trade Policy Framework

Strategic Insights -

Cambodia's Minister of Commerce, H.E. Mrs. CHAM Nimul, emphasized the significance of a new trade policy framework in preparing the country for its graduation from least developed country (LDC) status. She stated that the research study, conducted by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), will contribute to the development of a comprehensive trade policy framework by 2030. The country aims to adapt its trade policies to respond to the gradual loss of trade preferences, legal flexibilities, and financing programs, and to strengthen its productive capacity, facilitate export diversification, and deepen trade and economic integration into regional and global markets.

Key Takeaways:

  • A research study on "Designing a New Trade Policy for Cambodia During and After LDC Graduation: A Path of Challenges and Opportunities" was validated by the Ministry of Commerce on August 5, 2025.
  • The study aims to contribute to the development of a Cambodia Trade Policy Framework towards 2030 and support the country's trade agenda for a smooth graduation from LDC status.
  • H.E. Mrs. CHAM Nimul emphasized the need for legal and institutional reforms, as well as strengthening of productive capacity, facilitation of export diversification, and continued deepening of trade and economic integration into regional and global markets.
  • The Minister of Commerce highlighted the importance of trade policies in addressing the gradual loss of trade preferences, legal flexibilities, and financing programs.
  • The event was attended by representatives from relevant ministries, government agencies, donors, development partners, and the private sector.
  • The senior economist of the ADB in Cambodia, Mr. Milan Thomas, and the Director for Africa and LDCs at UNCTAD, Mr. Paul Akiwumi, also participated in the validation workshop.

Statistics:

  • CD2025
  • No specific statistics were mentioned in the source material.

Sources:

  • Agence Kampuchea Presse (2025)