Amid escalating diplomatic tensions and rising nationalist rhetoric from across the border, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has officially announced that all imports of fuel and gas from Thailand will be suspended starting at midnight tonight (June 22, 2025).
The decision comes as a response to recent threats by a Thai opposition party, which proposed using oil exports as leverage to force Cambodia into submission. In an assertive statement, Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that Cambodia is fully prepared to meet its energy needs without relying on Thai fuel.
“Fuel and gas supply companies in Cambodia have the capacity to import from alternative sources to fulfill national demand—not just for a month, but indefinitely,” he stated.
Hun Sen: “A Dangerous Game That Could Backfire”
Former Prime Minister Hun Sen, currently head of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), issued a powerful response, labeling Thailand’s threat as “a dangerous game that could lead to self-destruction.” He warned that the real damage could fall on Thailand’s own PTT oil company, which operates numerous fuel stations inside Cambodia.
“We won’t die because we stop importing oil from Thailand. But maybe PTT will,” Hun Sen said pointedly. “If that’s what you want, go ahead. But think carefully.”
Hun Sen added that if Thailand dares to expel Cambodian workers—many of whom are the backbone of Thai industries such as construction, agriculture, and manufacturing—Thailand’s economy may face severe consequences.
Border Tensions Add Fuel to the Fire
These developments unfold as border tensions between the two nations continue to simmer. Cambodian officials have raised concerns about restricted access at border checkpoints, increased inspection delays, and unresolved trade and labor issues that are contributing to the deterioration of bilateral trust.
Despite Thailand’s recent shift in tone, aiming to appease Cambodian workers after Cambodia’s repatriation announcement, many in Cambodia view the gestures as superficial and politically motivated.
Economic Nationalism: Reducing Dependency on Thailand
In response to the mounting pressure, Hun Sen urged the government to review and redirect national import strategies, especially those dependent on Thailand.
He proposed that Cambodia:
- Suspend imports of non-essential Thai goods, such as alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, and all types of canned foods
- Promote local production and diversify imports from countries beyond Thailand
- Use this moment to strengthen economic independence and national pride
“We should not only look within our borders but beyond 2030,” he said, calling for a new era of economic resilience and regional strategy.
Cambodia’s Position: Prepared and Resilient
Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed that Cambodia has already laid the groundwork to address disruptions in vital sectors such as fuel, electricity, internet access, and labor mobility. Cambodian businesses are actively pursuing new energy supply partnerships with countries like Vietnam, China, and Singapore.
The government has made it clear: Cambodia will not be threatened into submission by economic coercion, and the country is ready to weather any short-term impacts in order to secure long-term sovereignty.
Source and Photos: Hun Manet & Samdech Hun Sen of Cambodia
