According to an announcement from the Cambodian Ministry of Commerce, procedures for applying for and issuing the Origin Certification Letter (OCL) will officially take effect from May 12, 2025. The Cambodian government has formally issued and implemented a series of new measures to control the verification of the origin of exported goods, particularly those destined for the United States. The government has also released an Inter-Ministerial Circular addressing measures to combat origin fraud for exported goods, with a special focus on products heading to the U.S. market.
In a statement on May 1, 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized that relevant authorities must conduct a comprehensive review and strictly enforce the process of issuing certificates of origin, especially for goods exported to the U.S. This oversight is seen as Cambodia’s commitment to adhering to international trade standards, protecting the reputation of its products, and curbing fraudulent practices with global implications.
Earlier, on April 21, 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced anti-circumvention tariffs on solar panels imported from Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Notably, companies in Cambodia face tariffs as high as 352.1%, a record figure reflecting significant concerns from the U.S. side.
This development is considered a key factor driving Cambodia to expedite the issuance of new regulations to mitigate the risk of facing similar trade penalties in the future.
Key Highlights of the Policy (effective nationwide from May 12, 2025):
- Applies to goods exported to the United States, particularly in sectors such as textiles, solar panels, bicycles, leather goods, electronics, agricultural products, and more.
- Waives all public service fees for Cambodian businesses applying for certificates of origin at the Ministry of Commerce.
- The government pledges to closely monitor cases of temporary import and re-export or indirect transshipment to ensure the accurate origin of goods.
Cambodia’s tightened origin regulations are not merely a measure to combat trade fraud but also serve as a clear warning about the increasing emphasis on transparency, traceability, and legal accountability in global supply chains.
Sources: Cambodian Ministry of Commerce, Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, U.S. Department of Commerce, Cambodia Investment Review
