The Cambodian Ministry of Commerce has recently notified local manufacturers and exporters to the United Statesthat a new Inter-ministerial Circular on measures against fraudulent declarations of origin—along with new procedures for applying for and issuing Certificates of Origin (C/O)—will officially take effect on May 12, 2025.
These measures are designed to prevent origin fraud during the export process to the U.S. market. The Ministry emphasized that no public service fees will be charged for submitting C/O applications.
According to the Ministry, the strengthened verification and control of export-origin documentation reflect the Cambodian Government’s ongoing commitment to tightening trade oversight and ensuring compliance with international regulations.
Prime Minister Hun Manet Orders Stricter Oversight
On May 1, 2025, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet directed relevant ministries and agencies to closely review and implement strict procedures for issuing certificates of origin, particularly for exports to the United States.
The Prime Minister underscored that this measure aims to prevent foreign goods imported into Cambodia from being falsely relabeled as “Made in Cambodia” before re-exporting to other markets in order to evade tariffs.
This policy move is expected to help protect and enhance the value of Cambodian products, curb fraudulent re-exports, and demonstrate Cambodia’s commitment to adhering to global trade standards.
Reinforcing Compliance Amid Global Trade Shifts
Cambodia has long maintained regulations governing the origin of import and export goods; however, the government is now intensifying enforcement amid shifting global trade dynamics.
Earlier, on April 21, 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced new anti-dumping duties on solar panels imported from Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, with Cambodian companies facing a steep tariff rate of 35.21%.
Given this context, experts urge enterprises to strengthen their compliance with origin rules, while actively leveraging the preferential origin benefits offered under Vietnam’s existing free trade agreements (FTAs). Doing so will help reduce risks, maximize export advantages, and safeguard business interests in international trade.