AKP Phnom Penh, July 08, 2025 --

Cambodia remains committed to continuing open and constructive negotiations with the United States to further reduce the current reciprocal tariff rate of 36 percent, said H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), at a press conference in Phnom Penh this afternoon.

H.E. Sun Chanthol, who led the Cambodian delegation to negotiate with the U.S., expressed appreciation to the U.S. government for its decision to lower the tariff from 49 to 36 percent.

“This is a success for Cambodia. Among the 14 countries involved, Cambodia secured the highest tariff reduction—about 27 percent,” he highlighted. “This is the best result achieved so far.”

The current reduced tariff rate is scheduled to take effect on Aug. 1, 2025, unless further negotiations are held. However, Cambodia remains proactive and ready to negotiate for a further cut.

“I have already informed the U.S. side that we are ready to travel to the United States or conduct online negotiations to push for a lower rate,” he affirmed.

H.E. Sun Chanthol also called on Cambodian businesses and stakeholders to stay calm, reassuring that the Royal Government under the leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has the capacity and commitment to protect the interests of both employers and employees.

“Please trust the Royal Government. We are doing everything we can to safeguard Cambodia’s economic and trade interests,” he said.

From January to June 2025, the CDC approved 373 investment projects. As of early July, the number has grown to 396 projects valued at around US$6 billion, expected to generate over 271,000 jobs.

“We still have many opportunities to attract investment,” H.E. Sun Chanthol stressed.

He also made a call for Cambodian migrant workers abroad to return home, noting that job opportunities are now available across the country.

By Heng Panha