KhmerTimes-Apr 6, 2026
Prime Minister Hun Manet has ordered a comprehensive investigation into alleged petrol smuggling activities, while reaffirming that Cambodia maintains a stable and sufficient domestic fuel supply despite ongoing global energy uncertainties. The directive was issued on Friday following the circulation of a one-minute leaked video that appears to show petrol being transferred from a Thai-flagged vessel to another ship with a Cambodian-speaking crew. The footage, which has drawn significant public attention, prompted concerns about possible violations of Cambodia’s fuel import restrictions.
“I have seen Thai media outlets reporting on a case involving a network of illegal petrol smuggling from Thailand into Cambodia,” the Prime Minister stated. He warned that if the allegations are substantiated, all individuals involved—regardless of their status—will face strict legal consequences. Mr Hun Manet further underscored that any fuel company found complicit in smuggling operations would have its license revoked. The Prime Minister reiterated that Cambodia has suspended imports of petrol and liquefied petroleum gas from Thailand since June 2025, following tensions linked to the border dispute. He stressed that the Kingdom has since secured alternative energy sources and no longer depends on Thai fuel supplies. “There is no need to import petrol from Thailand,” he said. Government officials maintain that Cambodia’s diversified energy procurement strategy has ensured stability in fuel availability, even as global markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.
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