AKP Phnom Penh, October 7, 2026 --

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has raised concern over the growing use of e-cigarettes, or vapes, particularly among young people, stressing the need for stronger measures to prevent their importation, distribution and use in Cambodia.

While presiding over the celebration of the 80th founding anniversary of the University of Health Science in Phnom Penh on Wednesday morning, the Prime Minister said that Cambodia has already adopted a clear public policy on e-cigarettes/vapes and does not welcome investment in the production or business of e-cigarettes and vape products.

“I have already instructed relevant institutions, including the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) and the Ministry of Commerce, not to welcome investment proposals related to e-cigarettes or vape products,” he underlined.

The Prime Minister noted that the increasing popularity of vaping, especially among young people, has become a public concern requiring greater attention and effective preventive measures.

Samdech Thipadei stressed that controlling such products should not focus only on investment, but also on preventing the entire chain, from importation and distribution to consumption, saying that the use of such products should be prohibited in the Kingdom.

At the same time, he referred to the issue of cannabis, emphasising that its cultivation and use require strict control to prevent the substance from becoming widespread among the population.

The Prime Minister's call highlights the need for stronger cooperation among relevant ministries and institutions to prevent the spread of e-cigarettes and other potentially harmful substances, while ensuring that Cambodia's investment and trade policies remain consistent with public health and social protection objectives.

By Heng Panha