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EPA Myanmar’s garment industry has warned that new US tariffs could derail the country's fragile recovery from last month’s deadly earthquake, which has already left over 3,600 dead and thousands injured. The 44% import tax, part of President Donald Trump’s latest trade policy shift, is set to come into effect this week—just as the Southeast Asian nation grapples with the aftermath of the 28 March quake that flattened homes, schools, and monasteries across its central regions. The Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA), representing an industry that employs over half a million people—mainly young women—said the tariffs risk pushing struggling businesses over the edge. “In the wake of such widespread devastation, these measures could not come at a worse time,” the MGMA said in a statement. “They will deepen the hardship faced by both businesses and communities.” The garment sector is one of Myanmar’s few remaining economic lifelines, especially amid the broader turmoil since the military coup in 2021. The ongoing civil conflict has splintered the country, displaced over 3.5 million people, and driven half of its population into poverty. Bilateral trade between the US and Myanmar totalled $734 million last year, but Myanmar’s exports have already dropped sharply. The MGMA has urged Washington to reconsider the tariff hike, asking for a “more lenient rate in light of the country’s multiple crises.” The earthquake has only compounded the nation’s economic and humanitarian distress. According to junta officials, more than 160 people are still missing and over 5,000 are injured. Further straining the country, Trump has also slashed humanitarian aid and paused a key refugee programme that once supported many fleeing Myanmar’s conflict zones. The World Food Programme recently confirmed it will cut food aid to one million people due to budget shortfalls worsened by these US funding cuts. As Myanmar faces catastrophe on multiple fronts—natural, economic, and political—its garment manufacturers are warning that added financial pressure from abroad could prove devastating. -2025-04-10

TNLA More than a week after Myanmar’s deadliest earthquake in decades, a lack of internet access is hampering emergency efforts and leaving families in the dark about missing loved ones. The 7.7 magnitude quake struck on 28 March, with Mandalay at its epicentre. Over 3,500 people are confirmed dead, many still buried beneath the rubble. But in vast parts of the country, survivors remain unaware of the full scale of the disaster—thanks to a digital blackout imposed by the military junta. Since seizing power in 2021, Myanmar’s military has restricted online access in an attempt to crush dissent. Entire regions have been left without internet, while others face heavy censorship and firewalls. Now, these blackouts are stalling vital aid and blocking communication between families, relief workers, and authorities. “It’s so difficult to connect with friends and family to make sure they’re okay,” said Gus, an LGBTQ+ activist in Sagaing. He hasn’t heard from two friends who were in Mandalay when the quake struck. “I’m so worried about them.” Aid workers say the blackout is leading to dangerous delays. In areas without any connectivity, residents must travel days just to report needs. Relief teams, meanwhile, are relying on limited Starlink satellite connections, which remain unaffordable for most locals. “Three days passed before help arrived in my town,” said Gus, who accessed news through a Starlink link operated by local business owners. The junta’s control over digital communications is drawing international criticism. Yadanar Maung, of Justice For Myanmar, called it a “digital dictatorship” and urged telecom firms and foreign governments to pressure the regime to restore access. While satellites and AI tools—like Microsoft's AI for Good and the EU’s Copernicus—are helping map damage remotely, aid groups say there’s no substitute for on-the-ground contact. “We can see where people are, but we can’t hear what they need,” one anonymous aid worker said. “No technology replaces being there.” With rain and military interference worsening conditions, the crisis response remains perilously hampered—leaving thousands at risk in the wake of disaster. -2025-04-10

CMAC Nearly half of all landmine accidents in Cambodia over the past decade have taken place outside officially recorded minefields, according to alarming new figures released by the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA). The revelation has raised serious concerns over the scale of unexplored contamination, particularly along the country’s western border with Thailand—a region scarred by decades of past conflict and now under renewed scrutiny. Of the more than 600 mine-related incidents recorded between 2015 and 2024, 49% occurred in areas not previously identified as hazardous. These findings have prompted the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), working with the Royal Cambodian Army, to ramp up efforts to map and survey the border provinces more comprehensively. Heng Ratana, Director General of CMAC, said the latest survey—underway since November and set to conclude by June—marks a significant push to uncover remaining danger zones. “We’re now focusing on previously unsurveyed districts along the Cambodia–Thailand border,” he said. “We use witness accounts, physical evidence, drones, and detailed mapping to identify contaminated sites.” To mitigate risks during the operation, CMAC is running awareness campaigns in each village surveyed. Local residents are briefed on potential dangers, and village leaders are informed of known risks before teams move on. First Vice-President of the CMAA, Ly Thuch, underlined the strategic importance of this work in realising Prime Minister Hun Manet’s pledge to deliver a mine-free Cambodia. But he warned the mission requires sustained international support. “We need advanced technology, better survey tools, and robust data systems to guide our efforts,” he said. Cambodia remains one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, a legacy of prolonged conflict that continues to threaten rural communities today. While progress has been made, the latest figures suggest the problem is far from over—and that many threats remain hidden just beyond the maps. -2025-04-10

Cambodia’s economy is set to expand by 6.1% in 2025, driven by resurgent exports and a tourism revival, according to the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) latest forecast. The upbeat projection comes after a stronger-than-expected 6.0% growth in 2024, but the recovery remains uneven—shadowed by risks in the real estate sector, rising inflation, and structural bottlenecks. The Asian Development Outlook April 2025 notes that industrial output remains Cambodia’s key growth engine, fuelled by a 23.5% surge in garment exports and renewed foreign investment in non-garment manufacturing. Tourist arrivals rebounded to pre-pandemic levels last year, particularly from neighbouring countries, bolstering services. Yet the recovery hasn’t reached all corners of the economy. Construction remains sluggish, weighed down by weak demand and a subdued property market. Inflation, which averaged just 0.8% in 2024, is forecast to rise sharply to 3.7% in 2025, driven by higher food demand and a low-base effect. Agriculture grew just 0.9% last year due to El Niño-related droughts, though exports of cassava, rubber, and cashew nuts offered some support. Looking ahead, modest gains are expected, with growth projected at 1.0% in 2025, aided by new trade deals with China and South Korea. Fiscal pressures are also building. The government’s budget deficit widened to $0.9 billion in 2024, and is set to grow to $1.5 billion in 2025, as it boosts spending to support recovery. Public debt remains manageable at 26.3% of GDP. The ADB highlights the need for deeper reform, especially in digital infrastructure, to sustain long-term growth. While Cambodia has made strides in rolling out digital ID systems and broadband access, it still ranks low on global e-governance benchmarks. Analysts warn that without significant investment in skills and regulatory frameworks, productivity gains will stall. The overall outlook remains positive—but fragile. With the global trade environment uncertain, a weak property market, and inflation creeping up, much will depend on the government’s ability to navigate risks and drive reform. Cambodia may be bouncing back—but sustaining the momentum will take more than just export numbers. -2025-04-10

KT In a move to protect citizens and ensure smoother travel during the Khmer New Year, Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior has issued a directive aimed at stopping unofficial service fees being demanded at border crossings with Thailand. The announcement, made public on April 8, instructs provincial administrations along the Thai border to prevent, investigate, and take action against any individuals or officials who solicit illegal payments from Cambodians crossing the border for the traditional holiday. Key measures outlined in the Ministry’s letter include: Enhancing border security and order before, during, and after the New Year period. Boosting staff at immigration checkpoints and possibly coordinating with Thai authorities to extend crossing hours to avoid congestion. Deploying support forces to assist citizens with border procedures and respond to any incidents or disruptions. Ensuring that transport prices remain stable, calling on transport companies to avoid raising fares during the holiday. Working with Thai counterparts to waive visa (Re-Entry Permit) fees for Cambodians and raising public awareness of the exemption. The Ministry also signaled that, depending on the situation, special task forces or committees could be formed to coordinate cross-border movement and assist travelers more effectively during the busy holiday season. The directive follows growing public concern over unofficial fees and aims to uphold fairness and accessibility for Cambodians traveling to and from Thailand to reunite with family or take part in New Year festivities. -2025-04-09

Ministry of Information In a timely move to ease congestion during the upcoming Khmer New Year, Cambodia's tallest bridge — Bridge 28 — will temporarily open for public use, offering travelers a rare preview of the massive infrastructure project. Spanning 537 meters in length and soaring 90 meters high, the bridge is part of National Road 10 in Pursat province’s Veal Veng district. It will be open to light vehicles, including cars and small tour vans, from April 11 to April 17, between 6 AM and 6 PM daily, according to Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol during a recent site visit and ceremonial concrete-pouring event. Constructed with approximately $25 million from Cambodia’s national budget, Bridge 28 is being built by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), with technical oversight by Guangzhou Wanan Construction Supervision Company. The bridge is a centerpiece of the nearly 200-kilometer-long National Road 10, which connects Battambang, Pursat, and Koh Kong provinces. Beyond its practical role in boosting regional connectivity, Bridge 28 is set to become a tourist magnet. A 15-meter-wide scenic viewpoint at the midpoint offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, and newly built parking areas at both ends can accommodate up to 70 vehicles, making it an attractive pit stop for travelers. The broader National Road 10 project — launched in March 2020 — is now more than 96% complete. Once finished, it will serve as a crucial route for trade, tourism, and economic growth in western Cambodia. For now, Bridge 28 will give holidaymakers a taste of the future — and a smoother ride home for Khmer New Year. -2025-04-09

Johannes & Co Recent headlines about India’s Lalit Patidar, the teenager with the world’s hairiest face, have stirred memories in Myanmar of an extraordinary family once known across the globe as the “Hairy People of Burma.” In the 19th century, four generations of one Burmese family captivated royalty and colonials alike with their striking appearance—faces and bodies thickly covered in hair due to a rare genetic condition known as hypertrichosis lanuginosa. Unlike Patidar, their condition affected their entire bodies, earning them the nickname “monkey people”—a label far removed from their otherwise ordinary intelligence and manner. At the heart of this story was Shwe-Maong, first recorded by British envoy John Crawfurd in 1826 during a diplomatic mission to King Bagyidaw’s court in Ava, following the First Anglo-Burmese War. Gifted to the king as a child from present-day Laos, Shwe-Maong grew up within the royal court, eventually marrying and fathering four children—one of whom, Maphoon, inherited his distinctive hair. Maphoon herself became a figure of fascination. When Captain Henry Yule visited Amarapura in 1855, he found her widowed but living comfortably. She had refused an Italian suitor after the king offered a generous dowry to ensure she married a Burmese man. That union produced Moung-Phoset, equally furry, who went on to have a daughter—Mah-Me—who also carried the genetic trait. This unusual lineage spanned nearly a century in Mandalay, serving successive kings, receiving royal privileges, and even managing market taxation under King Mindon. Their tale took an international turn in 1886, after the fall of King Thibaw and the collapse of the Burmese monarchy. With the help of Italian ex-military advisor Captain Paperno, Maphoon and Moung-Phoset travelled to Europe, performing at London’s Egyptian Hall and later under P.T. Barnum’s banner in the U.S. as the “Sacred Hairy Family of Burma.” Maphoon, reportedly blind by then, died in Washington in 1888. What became of Moung-Phoset remains a mystery. Despite their global fame in the 1800s, no similar cases of hypertrichosis have been recorded in Myanmar since. The family’s story, once at the intersection of science, spectacle and empire, now lingers as a curious chapter in both medical history and Burmese folklore. -2025-04-09

Sai Zaw Thaike Myanmar’s military regime has suspended all tourist visa applications in the wake of a powerful earthquake that devastated large parts of the country late last month. The 7.7-magnitude quake, which struck central Myanmar on 28 March, has left over 3,600 people dead and thousands more injured, according to official figures. More than 200 remain missing. In response, the junta has halted tourist entries as recovery efforts stretch thin across Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Sagaing, and southern Shan State. The Ministry of Immigration and Population announced the visa suspension last week, citing “ongoing recovery efforts” and the extent of the damage. Business visas will still be processed, but all other travel for leisure is on hold indefinitely. The move comes amid growing scrutiny over the junta’s handling of the crisis. Foreign journalists have been barred from entering affected areas, with military officials claiming that a lack of electricity, water, and shelter makes access impossible. However, human rights groups accuse the regime of using the disaster to further restrict press freedom and suppress independent reporting. “It is not possible for foreign journalists to come, stay, find shelter, or move around here,” said junta spokesperson Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun in a state media broadcast, urging the international community to “understand” the decision. Independent journalists, many working in secret from inside Myanmar or from across the Thai border, continue to report on the situation at great personal risk. The country’s track record on press freedom remains dire—journalist Sai Zaw Thaike was handed a 20-year prison sentence in 2023 for covering a cyclone’s aftermath. International organisations have condemned the ongoing information blackout and called for unimpeded access for both aid workers and reporters. With entire communities displaced and infrastructure crippled, the absence of transparency has raised concerns over the true scale of the humanitarian crisis. Travellers and tour operators are being urged to cancel or postpone any plans to visit Myanmar. Officials say updates will be provided once the situation stabilises, but with rescue operations still under way and communications patchy at best, there is no clear timeline for reopening. For now, the country's famed temples and cultural landmarks remain off-limits, as Myanmar contends with disaster recovery amid deepening isolation. -2025-04-09

Prime Minister Hun Manet has firmly rejected claims that Cambodia imposes a 97% tariff on US goods, clarifying that the figure reflects a trade imbalance—not an actual tax rate—and signalling his readiness to negotiate directly with former US President Donald Trump if required. Speaking at the inauguration of the Morodok Techo Skybridge in Phnom Penh on 7 April, Hun Manet addressed the growing concern following the US’s shock decision last week to slap a 49% tariff on Cambodian imports—one of the highest currently in effect globally. “The 97 percent is not a tariff we impose,” the Prime Minister said. “It reflects the trade deficit between the two countries. Our actual average tariff on American goods is 29.4 percent, with some 210 tariff lines entirely duty-free.” He stressed Cambodia’s adherence to World Trade Organization rules, which cap tariffs at 35%, and noted that US tariffs on Cambodian goods average 11%. In response to the US measures, Hun Manet announced that Cambodia will immediately slash tariffs on 85 American goods—from 35% to just 5%—as a goodwill gesture. A high-level delegation, led by Sun Chanthol and Cham Nimul, is already on standby to fly to Washington should the US agree to formal talks. “Even though I don’t post everything on Facebook, we’ve been preparing,” he assured the public. “We’ve carefully mapped out both immediate steps and follow-ups.” The Prime Minister also addressed public calls for him to lead negotiations personally. “If President Donald Trump is involved in this tax issue, I’ll negotiate with him directly,” he stated, signalling both confidence and a willingness to engage at the highest level. The US tariffs, announced on 2 April, target nearly 200 countries, prompting urgent consultations between Cambodia’s government and private sector. With tensions rising and trade implications looming, Hun Manet’s firm response marks a bid to protect Cambodia’s export sector while keeping diplomatic doors open.

MoT Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet is championing the development of pedestrian-friendly "Walk Streets" across the country, calling them key to boosting tourism and improving public life. Speaking on Monday at the inauguration of the Morodok Techo Flyover in Phnom Penh, Hun Manet urged local governments to expand efforts in creating vibrant pedestrian zones that double as community hubs and tourist attractions. “Our citizens are going out more, and I encourage all provinces and cities to prepare Walk Streets where people can have fun and exercise,” he said. “This is part of developing our cities and improving people’s wellbeing.” The initiative, which promotes dedicated areas for walking, street food, and cultural activities, is already gaining traction. Cities are reportedly competing to create more inviting public spaces, and the Prime Minister praised those efforts, noting particularly the progress in Preah Sihanouk province. In a further show of commitment, he announced that 70 hectares in Phnom Penh’s Tomnup Kob Srov area will be designated for a new public park — a move intended to offer both leisure and green space to urban residents. The capital's flagship project, the riverside Walking Street, has already launched weekend events from 6PM to 11PM along Sisowath Avenue. Due to positive public response, it will run daily from April 12 to 16, coinciding with Khmer New Year festivities. Adding a touch of personal endorsement, Cambodia’s First Lady Pich Chanmony visited the Walk Street over the weekend, sampling street food and mingling with locals. “It made me nostalgic for childhood,” she posted on social media. “I really want to come again with my idol, Prime Minister Hun Manet.” As the country positions itself for a post-pandemic tourism revival, Walk Streets may become a defining feature of Cambodia’s urban future — blending culture, community, and economic opportunity in a single stride. -2025-04-08

Irrawaddy The son of Myanmar’s junta leader is reaping financial rewards from a tyre business tied to the military, according to a new investigation — a move seen as part of a wider effort to dodge international sanctions. Aung Pyae Sone, son of Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has quietly cornered the country’s car tyre and engine oil markets. He does so through a web of companies fronted by longtime associate Maung Maung Naing, a Yangon-based businessman with deep ties to the ruling elite. YHI Aung (Myanmar), where Aung Pyae Sone holds a significant share, imports and distributes well-known brands such as Yokohama and Dunlop. But the money trail doesn’t stop there. A newer firm, Capital Ace Company, established in May 2024, has taken the scheme further — partnering with the military-owned Myanmar Economic Holdings Limited (MEHL), which is under sanctions from the US, EU, and UK. According to leaked documents published by Khit Thit Media this week, Capital Ace struck a secret deal with MEHL to rebrand its military-manufactured tyres. The original “Tristar” brand, which clearly bore military origins, has been replaced by the more commercially palatable “Joker”. Exclusive distribution rights were handed to Capital Ace and CRV, another Aung Pyae Sone-owned firm based in Mandalay. This rebranding, sources suggest, is designed to conceal the tyres’ links to the military, allowing them to enter the market unnoticed. The scheme not only helps the junta sidestep sanctions but also consolidates economic power in the hands of the regime’s inner circle. “The latest revelation highlights the junta’s ongoing exploitation of national resources for personal gain, even under economic duress,” said a Burmese economist familiar with the matter. Beyond tyres, Aung Pyae Sone has been active in sectors including construction, tourism, and most recently, solar energy — an area promoted by his father amidst worsening power cuts. The growing footprint of junta-linked businesses has deepened concerns among observers and international watchdogs, who see the military’s economic entrenchment as a key obstacle to both reform and accountability. As Myanmar’s economic crisis grinds on, stories like this offer a stark reminder of who continues to profit — and at what cost. -2025-04-08

MFSD A catastrophic earthquake has plunged Myanmar deeper into crisis, compounding the nation’s civil war and dimming hopes for peace, despite a brief ceasefire announced by the ruling military junta. Two weeks after the 7.7 magnitude quake — one of the strongest in a century — rocked Myanmar, the official death toll has risen to 3,471, with thousands still missing. Experts warn that fatalities may exceed 10,000, with economic losses likely to surpass the country's entire annual GDP of $66.8 billion. In a rare move, the military government quickly declared a state of emergency and appealed for international aid. The shift drew comparisons to 2008’s Cyclone Nargis, when a sluggish response by the junta worsened the death toll. But analysts warn that despite the more cooperative tone, the quake is unlikely to prompt any genuine political breakthrough. “The battle lines are etched too deeply,” said analyst Angshuman Choudhury. “There’s little to no common ground between the junta and opposition groups.” The junta has declared a 20-day ceasefire until 22 April, citing the need to support humanitarian efforts. But ongoing airstrikes in quake-hit regions and blocked aid routes tell a different story. Reports from the UN and Amnesty International accuse the military of hampering relief in rebel-held areas, with incidents including warning shots fired at a Chinese Red Cross convoy. Myanmar’s descent into turmoil began in 2021, when the military overthrew the elected government. Since then, 3.5 million people have been displaced, and the country has become one of the most violent places in the world, according to ACLED. The quake hit as the junta faced mounting battlefield losses, prompting observers to suggest the regime is now using the disaster to regroup militarily — and diplomatically. Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing recently visited Bangkok, meeting leaders from Thailand and India to discuss relief, signalling a push to bolster legitimacy ahead of a controversial election in December. But critics see the vote as little more than theatre. “It’s a calculated move to portray a path to civilian rule,” Choudhury said, “when in reality, the military intends to stay firmly in control.” With suffering on the rise and no end to the conflict in sight, Myanmar’s future remains precarious — shaken by both nature and man. -2025-04-08

The Irrawaddy The 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on March 28 has left no corner of the country untouched—including the military elite’s stronghold in Naypyitaw. While junta chief Min Aung Hlaing took cover under a desk during the quake, elsewhere, entire neighborhoods in Mandalay and Sagaing collapsed into chaos, with the death toll nationwide climbing to 3,145 by Thursday. In Naypyitaw, the administrative capital tightly controlled by the military, destruction was severe. Government buildings, roads, bridges, hospitals, and staff housing were badly damaged. According to the junta’s own figures, the city suffered the second-highest death toll after Mandalay, with at least 511 people killed. The junta was initially tight-lipped about the extent of the damage in the capital. But as images circulated of collapsed ceilings and ruined government offices, officials were forced to acknowledge the reality. Even Foreign Minister Than Swe had to attend a crucial ASEAN emergency meeting from a tent outside his damaged office. The National Disaster Management Committee, Myanmar’s top disaster response body, also lost its headquarters and has been operating out of a temporary shelter. The earthquake spared no one—not even the most powerful. Reports suggest that the Row of Six Mansions, home to ex-leaders like Than Shwe and Thein Sein, sustained structural damage. Chandeliers in the presidential palace were seen shattered, and elite war offices were hit hard. Min Aung Hlaing’s own advisor, Yin Yin Nwe, described taking shelter under a table as buildings shook violently. Despite the destruction, government response has been minimal. Rescue operations in hard-hit housing complexes like Khayay and Zabuthiri were largely absent, leaving families of civil servants trapped under debris. One government worker stated that junta officials came to inspect the damage but “did nothing to help.” Even Myanmar’s ruling elite, it seems, could not insulate themselves from the wrath of nature—nor from the failures of their own crisis response system. -2025-04-07

photo Myanmar rescue team Three U.S. aid workers have been abruptly fired by the Trump administration while on assignment in Myanmar, where they were helping coordinate relief efforts following a catastrophic earthquake that has killed over 3,000 people. The 7.7-magnitude quake struck near Mandalay on 28 March, becoming the country’s second deadliest on record. It left more than 4,800 injured and hundreds still missing. Myanmar’s government quickly requested international assistance, prompting several nations—Russia, China, India, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam among them—to send immediate aid. The United States, by contrast, sent only a small team of USAID staffers, who arrived days before being dismissed by email. The sudden firings have shocked humanitarian circles, coming at a time when Myanmar's need for foreign support is critical. According to colleagues who spoke anonymously to The New York Times, the decision left staff “furious” and diplomats deeply unsettled, fearing the move could signal further politicisation of foreign aid. The firings also appear to contradict earlier assurances by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had pledged continued U.S. support for crisis response, despite President Trump’s broader push to dismantle USAID’s independence. Under ongoing restructuring plans, USAID is to be absorbed into the State Department, with deep job cuts and reduced aid capacity expected. Though USAID staff had been warned about potential job losses later this year, the abrupt termination of field workers during a humanitarian mission was described by insiders as “especially cruel”. In the meantime, a joint statement from the U.S., Australia, Japan and India promised $20 million in assistance to Myanmar—though only $2 million will come from Washington. The relatively modest sum has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats, with several senators urging Rubio and USAID Director Bessent to “rapidly assess” what more can be done. The future of U.S. involvement in Myanmar’s recovery remains unclear, but the firings have cast a long shadow over Washington’s role—and reputation—in global disaster relief. -2025-04-07

Cambodia will reclaim several abandoned island development projects and repurpose them for national defence, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced on 5 April, marking a significant shift in land use strategy in the country’s coastal regions. The statement came during the inauguration of the Cambodia–China Joint Logistics and Training Centre, where Hun Manet confirmed that some islands previously handed to private developers had remained inactive and would now be reassessed for strategic use. “Now is the time for the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) to start re-evaluating some of the islands that were licensed and left behind,” he said, signalling a more assertive approach to managing state land. “Let’s think about where it was taken away and leave it for the navy for our long-term defence base.” The Prime Minister outlined a broader vision for balancing national security with economic needs, noting that while defence must be prioritised, the country must also reserve space for private investment and residential development. “This kind of thinking should be differentiated,” he said. “We cannot only think about the army without considering the growth of the economic and commercial needs of the people.” Hun Manet directed the CDC to work closely with the Ministry of National Defence to identify and designate islands suitable for military purposes. These areas will be formally classified as public land under national defence control and subject to strict regulation. The move reflects Cambodia’s evolving approach to land management, particularly in sensitive coastal areas where overlapping interests of defence, development, and conservation often collide. It also comes amid growing geopolitical tensions in the region, with Cambodia seeking to bolster its naval infrastructure, particularly around the strategically located Ream base. Observers say the government's more proactive stance could tighten oversight of development projects, many of which have faced criticism for stagnation or lack of transparency in recent years. The new policy appears designed to both secure national interests and present a more deliberate framework for future private investment—one that balances security with sustainable growth. -2025-04-07

KT Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet has officially inaugurated a newly renovated naval base at Ream, backed by Chinese funding and engineering—drawing praise from Beijing and fresh scrutiny from the West. Speaking at the high-profile ceremony on 5 April, Hun Manet insisted there was “nothing to hide” about the base’s purpose, amid long-standing concerns from the United States over its potential use by China’s navy. “From today, Cambodia will welcome all friends to hold joint exercises in the Ream base,” he said, rejecting claims of exclusivity and promising access for foreign navies. The base, situated on Cambodia’s southern coast near the contested South China Sea, has strategic implications. Since 2019, Washington has voiced concerns that China could be gaining a foothold in the Gulf of Thailand, citing reports of a secret agreement between Phnom Penh and Beijing. In 2022, US outlets reported the upgrades were designed for Chinese military use—allegations Cambodian officials continue to deny. At Saturday’s ceremony, attended by military representatives from multiple countries, Cambodia rolled out the red carpet for delegates from China’s People’s Liberation Army. Senior Chinese officer Cao Qingfeng described the port as a symbol of “iron-clad friendship” and pledged it would “inject new momentum into regional security”. He confirmed the site would host joint exercises, including the annual Golden Dragon drills next month. The base’s refurbishment, undertaken since 2022 with Chinese assistance, includes a 363-metre pier where Chinese warships first docked late last year. Two more Chinese vessels are set to be delivered to Cambodia, further deepening defence ties. Hun Manet also announced that Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Cambodia this month, a move that underscores Beijing’s growing influence in the region. Under former prime minister Hun Sen—Manet’s father—China funnelled billions into Cambodian infrastructure, as ties with Washington cooled. Nonetheless, Cambodia has made efforts to show balance. A US warship docked in nearby Sihanoukville in December, the first in eight years, followed by a visit from a senior US commander in February. Last month, Cambodia revealed a Japanese warship would be the first foreign vessel to dock at Ream since its reopening. Whether such gestures will ease strategic anxieties remains to be seen. But Phnom Penh is clearly positioning Ream not just as a naval base, but as a litmus test for its diplomatic balancing act between East and West. -2025-04-07

apopo, archives A giant African pouched rat named Ronin has made history in Cambodia by detecting more landmines than any other rat on record. Deployed by Belgian charity APOPO in August 2021, Ronin has sniffed out 109 landmines and 15 unexploded ordnances (UXOs) in Cambodia’s northern Preah Vihear province, earning him a Guinness World Record and a place in humanitarian demining history. At just five years old, Ronin now holds the title of most successful Mine Detection Rat (MDR) in APOPO’s history, surpassing the late Magawa, another celebrated rat who detected 71 landmines and 38 UXOs before retiring in 2021. Magawa was previously awarded a gold medal for heroism before his death in 2022. APOPO praised Ronin for his “exceptional accomplishments,” saying his work highlights the crucial role of HeroRats in saving lives and reclaiming land in post-conflict zones. "He’s not just an asset, he’s a valued partner and colleague,” said Phanny, Ronin’s handler. Cambodia remains one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, a legacy of decades of conflict, including the Vietnam War and the rise of the Khmer Rouge. The US bombing campaign during the 1960s and 1970s, followed by internal conflict that lasted until 1998, left the country littered with hidden dangers. Since 1979, over 20,000 people have died from landmines and UXOs, with twice as many injured. Despite international support and local efforts, tragedies still occur. As recently as February, two toddlers were killed in Siem Reap province when a buried rocket-propelled grenade exploded near their home. Originally targeting 2025 as a mine-free milestone, the Cambodian government has now extended the deadline to 2030, citing financial constraints and the discovery of new contaminated areas, especially along the Thai border. Ronin, however, continues to play a key role in these efforts and may have at least two more years of active service ahead of him. His record-breaking success offers not just a glimmer of hope in a long battle, but a reminder that even the smallest allies can make a life-saving difference. -2025-04-05

AmCham Cambodia has been hit with a steep 49% US tariff on its exports, prompting concern in Phnom Penh and a scramble to shield the economy from what many are calling a serious threat to competitiveness. The tariff, announced by former US President Donald Trump in a sweeping crackdown on trade imbalances, makes Cambodia the hardest-hit country in ASEAN. Trump, speaking at a press conference, singled out Cambodia for having “made a fortune” from US trade and pledged to rein in what he called unfair gains. The Cambodian government is now weighing “comprehensive measures” to keep its economy competitive, said Meas Soksensan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy and Finance. “We will implement specific steps to support growth and protect jobs,” he told Khmer Times. The American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (AmCham) warned that the tariff could have an immediate and damaging effect on the country’s key export industries, particularly garments and footwear. AmCham president Casey Barnett urged swift talks with Washington, saying “the only way to avoid serious long-term harm is through immediate diplomatic engagement.” Exports to the US are vital to Cambodia’s economy, making up nearly $10 billion in 2024 alone—an 11% rise from the year before. Yet the country's efforts to diversify exports over three decades have had limited success, leaving it exposed to trade shocks. Still, some are urging caution. Lim Heng of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce said assessments should wait until the tariff is actually in force, noting that previous fears—such as the partial withdrawal of EU trade preferences—did not lead to the worst-case scenarios. Others warn the tariff may do more harm to the US in the long run. Chheng Kimlong of the Asian Vision Institute called it “a short-term win” for Washington that could damage its reputation as a leader in free trade and invite retaliation from other nations. With the tariff set to take effect on 9 April, Cambodia has a narrow window to negotiate. Analysts say the government may offer reciprocal trade concessions, or even grant American businesses greater access, in hopes of defusing the crisis. As tensions rise, some see the move as part of a wider geopolitical struggle. “When elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers,” said Youk Chhang of DC-Cam, pointing to Cambodia’s growing role in China-US trade rivalry. -2025-04-05

The Irrawaddy In a development that could signal movement on a long-stalled crisis, Myanmar has confirmed that 180,000 Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh are eligible to return home, according to the Bangladeshi government. The announcement was made following high-level talks between Bangladeshi envoy Khalilur Rahman and Myanmar’s deputy prime minister Than Swe on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok. The verified names come from a list of 800,000 Rohingya submitted by Bangladesh between 2018 and 2020. While the news has been framed as a diplomatic breakthrough, reaction within the refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar has been cautious, even sceptical. “This feels like nothing more than an eyewash,” said Shafiqur Rahman, a Rohingya refugee. “Myanmar must take all of us back — not just a selected few — and they must ensure we return with full rights, dignity, and citizenship.” Over one million Rohingya have taken shelter in southeastern Bangladesh since 2017, when Myanmar’s military launched a brutal crackdown that UN investigators later described as having “genocidal intent.” Some families have been in the camps even longer, having fled previous waves of persecution. Despite efforts to begin repatriation in 2018 and 2019, no large-scale return has materialised, primarily because the refugees fear ongoing discrimination and violence. Rohingya remain effectively stateless in Myanmar, denied citizenship, freedom of movement, and access to education or healthcare. Myanmar has indicated that final verification of an additional 70,000 names is still pending, and pledged to accelerate checks on the remaining 550,000 on the original list. However, without concrete assurances of safety and rights, refugee leaders say few will be willing to return. For now, the statement marks a small step in a complex process overshadowed by decades of ethnic persecution. Whether this signals the beginning of a real solution—or just more diplomatic posturing—remains to be seen. -2025-04-05

Thai Enquirer Myanmar's embattled junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, has resurfaced on the international stage, meeting Indian and Thai leaders in Bangkok even as the United Nations accuses his military of obstructing humanitarian aid following a devastating earthquake. The rare diplomatic outing came during the BIMSTEC summit, where the junta leader, shunned by most since his 2021 coup, held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Thai Premier Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Their discussions centred on post-quake recovery efforts, with Modi urging a permanent ceasefire in Myanmar, where civil war continues to ravage much of the country. More than 3,100 people have died and thousands more remain injured or missing after the 7.7-magnitude quake struck last week. While international aid has begun flowing in, the UN says the junta is blocking supplies to areas not loyal to its rule, compounding the humanitarian catastrophe. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the situation as “supercharged suffering” and called for the tragedy to become a turning point for peace. UN officials are investigating dozens of fresh attacks by the military, including 16 reported breaches of the junta’s own ceasefire declared earlier this week. Min Aung Hlaing, meanwhile, has used the disaster to re-engage with regional partners, pressing forward with talks on trade, infrastructure and security. India has backed calls for “inclusive and credible elections” to resolve the conflict, even as critics argue any vote under junta control would simply entrench military power. Relief efforts are also racing against time. Heavy rains and extreme heat threaten to spark disease outbreaks in makeshift camps housing displaced survivors across Mandalay, Sagaing, and Naypyitaw. The US has pledged a further $7 million in aid, but international frustration grows as vital assistance fails to reach those most in need. While the junta pushes for a December election, many remain sceptical. As pressure mounts, observers say Myanmar’s neighbours — including India, China, and Thailand — now face a delicate balancing act: offering disaster aid without legitimising a regime still widely condemned. -2025-04-05

Photo Zay Myo Lin The death toll from Myanmar’s catastrophic earthquake has climbed to over 3,000, as extreme weather threatens to trigger disease outbreaks among survivors still sleeping outdoors amid collapsed homes, destroyed hospitals, and ongoing civil unrest. The 7.7-magnitude quake—Myanmar’s strongest in over a century—struck last Friday, devastating parts of central Myanmar and affecting more than 28 million people. With many hospitals destroyed or damaged and thousands displaced, health experts warn that rising temperatures and incoming rains could compound the crisis. According to the ruling junta, 3,085 people are confirmed dead, with 4,715 injured and 341 still missing. In regions such as Mandalay, Sagaing, and Naypyitaw, survivors are sheltering in makeshift camps under the searing 38°C heat, fearful of returning to structurally unsound buildings. The World Health Organization has raised alarms over the heightened risk of cholera, dengue, and malaria. "Cholera remains a particular concern," said Elena Vuolo, deputy head of WHO’s Myanmar office, referencing a previous outbreak in Mandalay. Around half of the healthcare facilities in affected zones have been rendered inoperable, further hampering medical response efforts. WHO is preparing $1 million in emergency supplies, including body bags and health kits, as local hospitals erect temporary shelters to care for the injured. But worsening weather is expected to make the situation even more perilous. Myanmar’s meteorological department has warned of unseasonal rains starting Sunday and lasting through 11 April. Aid organisations fear that flooding in already devastated areas could accelerate the spread of waterborne diseases. "If that hits, we’ve got people in makeshift camps, and that’s going to be a real problem," said Titon Mitra, the UNDP’s representative in Myanmar. The ongoing civil conflict, sparked by the 2021 military coup, continues to complicate access to the worst-hit regions. Relief agencies are urging the junta to grant full humanitarian access, warning that further delays could deepen an already dire humanitarian crisis. As the international community rushes to respond, Myanmar faces a race against time—not only to rescue and treat survivors but to stave off the deadly secondary effects of disaster in a country already on its knees. -2025-04-04

Myanmar’s junta chief, Min Aung Hlaing, has travelled to Thailand for a regional summit, even as his country reels from a devastating earthquake and fresh military airstrikes that have drawn sharp international condemnation. The trip marks his second major foreign visit since seizing power in the 2021 coup. He is attending a two-day meeting of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), hosted in Bangkok and involving seven South Asian and Southeast Asian nations. According to junta media, Min Aung Hlaing will discuss disaster relief and potential international cooperation, following Myanmar’s most powerful quake in over a century. The death toll from the quake, which struck last Friday, has climbed past 3,000, with thousands more injured and hundreds still unaccounted for. Yet, even as rescue efforts continue, the junta has carried out more than 20 air and artillery strikes in resistance-held regions, including Sagaing, Kachin, and Rakhine, since the earthquake hit. Reports indicate at least five of those strikes occurred on Tuesday, despite ceasefire calls from various ethnic armed groups. Just hours before Min Aung Hlaing’s departure, the regime announced its own ceasefire, claiming it would last until April 22. But within hours, airstrikes resumed in Kachin State, raising doubts over the junta’s commitment to its pledge. The summit has sparked strong criticism from rights groups across the region. ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights and other organisations condemned the junta’s participation, citing ongoing atrocities, war crimes, and systematic attacks on civilians. Min Aung Hlaing remains barred from ASEAN-level meetings for his failure to uphold the bloc’s peace plan. His visit also renews speculation over possible meetings with Thailand’s influential former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, who has longstanding ties to Myanmar’s military leadership. Though Thaksin previously attempted informal peace talks with opposition groups, they failed to yield progress. Despite international outrage and domestic crisis, Min Aung Hlaing’s Bangkok trip suggests the junta is keen to project a sense of legitimacy abroad—even as its actions at home continue to draw condemnation. -2025-04-04

Penn Sovicheat, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce Cambodian officials have urged calm following a sharp hike in US tariffs on Cambodian goods, insisting the move is not politically driven and pledging to protect the country’s export sector. On 3 April, US President Donald Trump announced a new 49% tariff on imports from Cambodia, citing reciprocal measures after Cambodia imposed a 97% rate on American goods. The change, set to take effect on 9 April, has raised fears over its potential impact on Cambodia’s economy, particularly in the garment and manufacturing sectors. Penn Sovicheat, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, rejected claims that the tariff hike is politically motivated. “This is not about politics,” he said. “The US has imposed similar tariffs on over 100 countries, including its close allies. This is part of a broader economic strategy, not a targeted response to Cambodia.” He explained that the Royal Government and the Ministry of Commerce are actively working to assess the impact and prepare countermeasures. “We urge citizens and exporters to remain calm. This is a negotiation, not a sanction,” he said, adding that Cambodia will engage through both bilateral channels and the World Trade Organization. The tariffs come amid strong trade growth between the two nations. In 2024, Cambodia exported nearly $10 billion in goods to the US, up over 11% from the previous year. The new levy will affect a range of products including garments, travel goods, footwear, tyres, and solar panels. Labour Minister Heng Sour also addressed concerns, stressing that the impact on workers this year will be minimal. “Most orders were placed before the tariffs were introduced. In fact, many firms risk penalties if they cancel existing contracts,” he explained. He added that Cambodia’s export diversification, especially towards Europe, has reduced overreliance on the US. “We’re not alone in this — other countries face similar tariffs, and Cambodia’s production costs remain competitive.” Officials reaffirmed their commitment to supporting exporters and maintaining economic stability, warning against misinformation and speculation. While the full impact of the tariffs will unfold in the coming years, the government remains firm in its position: trade, not politics, is at the heart of this dispute. -2025-04-04

UYFC Cambodia’s Ministry of Education is calling on schools nationwide to lead the charge in preserving Khmer traditions during this year’s Khmer New Year celebrations, with a fresh set of cultural guidelines issued to schools and youth organisations. In a notice released this week, the ministry set out four key points aimed at encouraging students to take part in traditional dances and games, while clamping down on newer, riskier trends that could overshadow cultural values. Top of the list is a push for widespread participation in age-old customs, from the elegant Romvong and Rom Kbach dances to crowd favourites like Chol Chhoung and Bos Angkunh. These activities, the ministry says, are essential to safeguarding Khmer identity and passing cultural pride down to younger generations. Schools are being asked to play an active role in this. Teachers, youth groups, and student councils have been tasked with not only encouraging involvement but also ensuring that events are run safely and respectfully. However, not all festive habits are being welcomed. The ministry has warned against more modern additions to the holiday – like water fights and talcum powder throwing – which, though popular, are now seen as safety risks and culturally inappropriate in the school setting. To support the effort, local education departments, parents, and community leaders are being urged to collaborate with schools, helping to both share information and manage any issues that arise during the celebrations. The move reflects a broader push to blend celebration with cultural responsibility, aiming to keep the spirit of the Khmer New Year alive without losing sight of its roots. -2025-04-04

The Irrawaddy Myanmar’s military has announced a temporary ceasefire to aid relief and reconstruction efforts following last week’s devastating earthquake, which has claimed at least 2,886 lives. The ceasefire, in effect from 2 April to 22 April, marks a rare pause in the country’s ongoing civil conflict. The move comes after rebel groups fighting the junta unilaterally declared their own ceasefire earlier this week to support rescue efforts. Until Wednesday’s announcement, the military had refused to reciprocate. The 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which struck last Friday, has left hundreds still missing and has worsened Myanmar’s already dire humanitarian crisis. The tremors were felt as far away as Thailand, where 21 deaths have been reported. Despite the ceasefire declaration, tensions remain high. On Tuesday night, Myanmar’s military fired at a Chinese Red Cross convoy carrying aid supplies in eastern Shan State. The convoy was en route to Mandalay, one of the hardest-hit cities. The junta claimed its troops fired warning shots after the vehicles failed to stop at a checkpoint. No injuries were reported. China’s foreign ministry confirmed that its rescue team and supplies were safe and called on “all factions and parties in Myanmar to prioritise earthquake relief efforts.” Rebel group Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which was escorting the convoy, insists it had notified the junta of the vehicles' movements. The military, however, said it had not received prior notice and demanded that all aid agencies inform authorities before delivering assistance. International aid agencies and foreign governments have dispatched emergency relief teams, but accessing affected areas remains difficult due to ongoing conflict and damaged infrastructure. The true death toll is feared to be much higher than official figures. While the ceasefire offers a brief respite, it remains uncertain whether it will lead to further cooperation between warring factions or if hostilities will resume once the period ends.