Foreign Officials Propose E-Cigarette Factory in Cambodia; PM Rejects Any Investment

Key points:

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has stated clearly that the government does not welcome investments related to e-cigarettes, even if the products are intended for export.

Recently, a senior official from a certain country met with Cambodian Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul, proposing to establish a factory for producing e-cigarettes in Cambodia. However, the Cambodian government has rejected the investment application.

The government is maintaining the comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and hookahs that has been in effect since 2014.

The Prime Minister calls on young people to stay away from e-cigarettes and focus their energy on education and personal development.

According to recent reports from Cambodian media, Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized during the launch ceremony of the National Cancer Control Program (2025-2030) in the capital city of Phnom Penh that the Cambodian government does not welcome any form of e-cigarette investment, even if it is solely for export.

Hun Manet pointed out that, recently, a ministerial-level official from a certain country visited Cambodian Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul and expressed a desire to establish a factory to produce e-cigarettes in Cambodia. However, the Cambodian government has rejected the investment application.

"If it is any other type of investment, Cambodia is welcome. But when it comes to e-cigarettes, our stance is: "Not necessary, please look elsewhere."

He further issued a public appeal to society, urging the general public, especially young people, to avoid using e-cigarette products.

"Do not think that smoking e-cigarettes is a 'cool' thing. Instead, time and effort should be spent on studying and striving to become a respected individual with accomplishments."

Since 2014, Cambodia has completely banned the import, sale, and use of e-cigarettes, hookahs, and heated tobacco products.

Hun Manet is the current Prime Minister of Cambodia, a member of the Cambodian National Assembly, a four-star general, and the eldest son of former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.