(Sihanoukville): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet acknowledged the challenges of tariff negotiations with the United States but affirmed that the Cambodian government remains committed to safeguarding national and public interests.
The premier spoke on Thursday (May 1) during his meeting with civil servants, staff, and workers of the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, “This is a complex matter. To date, no country has successfully concluded such negotiations — not even Japan, a global power and long-standing U.S. ally since World War II, which still faces a 24 percent tariff without a finalized agreement.” He added that Japan appointed its trade minister to negotiate in Washington, D.C., yet the talks remain inconclusive given the complexity of the matter.
The premier continued, “Trade negotiations are far from simple. When one country makes concessions, it sets a precedent for others. For example, if Japan agrees to certain terms with the US, it must also offer the same concessions to other partners, such as those in Europe. Therefore, Japan must weigh all aspects carefully.”
Prime Minister Hun Manet stated, “With Cambodia, we are doing our utmost despite the complexity and hardship. We have already implemented various measures and are preparing additional steps. Our primary objective is to protect the country’s trade and economic interests, especially considering our economy heavily relies on exports. Supporting our people’s livelihoods and strengthening the national economy remain our top priorities.”
Samdech Thipadei also responded to critics who have mocked the government's efforts, affirming that the government remains steadfast in its commitment. As of now, Cambodia’s negotiating team has already held one meeting with the US Trade Representative on 16 April and another is scheduled for tomorrow.
“We are ready at any time. Whenever we are invited to the US, we will go without hesitation. We have even appointed the deputy prime minister to lead this effort, a position second only to the prime minister,” the premier highlighted.
On 16 April 2025, Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol, First Vice-Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), and Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul led a working group for bilateral coordination on Cambodia–US trade and investment relations. They held a virtual meeting with US Chief Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
This meeting was held in response to a letter from Samdech Thipadei to President Donald Trump, dated 4 April 2025, expressing goodwill and a proposal to initiate trade negotiations with the US.
During the meeting, both parties discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade and investment. They underscored their shared commitment to engaging in open and constructive dialogue, laying the groundwork for future negotiations toward a fair and balanced trade relationship.
=FRESH NEWS
