Some of Cambodia’s export items like garments, footwear and travel goods are now subject to the European Union’s (EU) customs duties. The preferential treatment enjoyed by Cambodia under the Everything But Arms’ (EBA) trade arrangement for least developed countries was temporarily lifted from August 12 due to serious and systematic concerns related to human rights.
The EU enforced this measure while staying open to engage with Cambodia on the necessary reforms, it said in a press release.
“We stand by their side also now in the difficult circumstances caused by the pandemic. Nonetheless, our continued support does not diminish the urgent need for Cambodia to respect human rights and labour rights. I stand ready to continue our engagement and to restore fully free access to the EU market for products from Cambodia provided we see substantial improvement in that respect,” Commissioner for Trade Phil Hogan said.
