"Press Release: The Cambodian Private Sector Regrets the Decision by the European Commission to Partially Withdraw Preference Granted to the Kingdom of Cambodia under Everything but Arms Arrangement", 14 February 2020

The Cambodian Chamber of Commerce and signatories, as representatives of the Cambodian private sector, regrets the decision taken by the European Commission to partially withdraw preferences granted to the Kingdom of Cambodia under the Everything but Arms (EBA) arrangement,... 

…, tariffs will be applied to 20% of Cambodia’s exports to the European Union, representing approximately US$1.3 billion of the total US$5.8 billion of goods exported annually to the European Union (approximately 45% of Cambodia’s overall exports). Specifically, tariffs will be introduced on 20% of selected garment products and 30% of selected footwear products, and all travel goods and sugar…

…, the Royal Government of Cambodia has undertaken extensive structural reforms to eliminate unnecessary burdens and improve trade facilitation that are intended to reduce the cost of doing business in the Kingdom…

Looking forward, Cambodia will continue to benefit from trade preferences for 80% of its exports to the European Union. Therefore, we respectfully call on the European Commission and the Royal Government of Cambodia to continue to engage in dialogue on the issues raised by the Commission’s review…

We will continue to work closely with international brands and development partners to strengthen and promote the values of human and labour rights in Cambodia, in accordance with international best practices…

The Cambodian private sector is dedicated to working with all investors, development partners and the Royal Government of Cambodia to review and implement additional measures and legislation that will enable a more conducive environment for all businesses, employees and Cambodian society.