Regulatory gap analysis of selected trade agreement chapters to support Cambodia's Least Developed Country and trade transition

This report assesses Cambodia's regulatory gaps in trade, using an analysis of gaps between Cambodia’s domestic legal framework and the e-commerce and environment chapters from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The CPTPP has been used as a helpful example with which to make a wider assessment of Cambodia, noting Cambodia's application to the CPTPP in December 2025. In preparation for its 2029 Least Developed Country (LDC) graduation and the higher obligations it will assume under advanced trade agreements, Cambodia is strengthening its trade regime by diversifying its international economic partnerships, digitising and automating customs systems, and reforming public service delivery, specifically for traders and investors. This demonstrates the Cambodian Government’s commitment to aligning with other high standards agreements and regulations, an ambition which is further illustrated by its application to the CPTPP, a high standard trading bloc. The study identifies key legal misalignments, highlights compliance risks, and aims to inform reform priorities to support Cambodia’s trade and development transition using the CPTPP as a benchmark.

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