MEF Advocates Increased Use of Local Stone in Infrastructure Projects

• 22 February 2024
• Local News
• 1150 Views

In a strategic move to fortify Cambodia’s economic resilience, the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) has issued a groundbreaking advisory, encouraging the heightened utilization of locally sourced stone in infrastructure projects and construction sites financed by the state budget.

The announcement, dated February 21, 2024, marks a pivotal shift in government policy, responding to a plea from the Cambodian Granite Association and addressing challenges faced by the domestic quarry business.

This visionary directive aims not only to strengthen the local quarry industry but also to promote self-sufficiency by reducing the dependency on stone imports. As part of the broader incentive, the MEF seeks to minimize the accumulation of stone waste in mining sites through efficient processing, fostering a sustainable approach that maximizes the utilization of indigenous resources.

Furthermore, the initiative is poised to create a positive economic ripple effect by generating additional job opportunities for the Cambodian workforce. By championing the use of domestic stone, the government demonstrates its commitment to fostering economic growth, supporting local industries, and contributing to the reduction of trade imbalances.

Quarrying encompasses the extraction of natural stones, including blocks, slabs, small stones (Carola), or sculpted stones, from the earth. These extracted materials find application in the construction and adornment of both indoor and outdoor structures, as well as in the development of gardens and infrastructure.

• Energy and Environment