PM Halts Issuance of Brewery Licenses for Domestic Distribution to Bolster Market Stability

• 29 November 2024
• Local News
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In a landmark decision to regulate Cambodia’s brewery industry, PM Samdech Hun Manet announced a ban on issuing new licenses for breweries targeting the domestic market. The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the Ministry of Mines and Energy’s annual meeting summarising 2024 results in November.

PM Hun Manet clarified that breweries focused on export production will continue to receive licensing approval, but new permits for domestic distribution will no longer be granted.

“I have stopped the beer brewing licenses for domestic distribution. There are seven breweries; if production is for export, I will permit it. However, no new licenses will be issued for local distribution,” he stated, highlighting the need to safeguard existing market players in Cambodia’s limited domestic market.

The PM explained that over-licensing could undermine the growth potential of existing investors, particularly in a saturated market. He urged stakeholders to carefully consider the impact of licensing decisions on the economic landscape, especially for significant investment projects valued at USD 100 million to USD 200 million.

Additionally, PM Hun Manet encouraged the private sector to explore alternative industries, such as car assembly plants, to diversify Cambodia’s industrial base. Drawing on examples from countries like Singapore, he emphasised the strategic importance of limiting licenses in certain sectors to encourage balanced growth and industrial development.

This strategic policy shift reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable economic environment by protecting existing businesses, encouraging export-focused industries, and promoting responsible investment. The move is expected to stabilise the domestic market while paving the way for enhanced export opportunities and diversified economic growth.

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