Cambodia cracks down on foreign e‑waste imports

Cambodia’s environment ministry has issued a stark warning over the dangers of electronic waste, urging provincial and municipal governors to enforce the country’s ban on importing foreign waste batteries and discarded electrical goods.

Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth reminded officials that the import of e‑waste has been prohibited since 1999 under national law. Yet warehouses and retailers continue to bring in second‑hand appliances mixed with hazardous materials, including fridges, televisions, computers and mobile phones.

In a statement released on 2 August, the ministry stressed that e‑waste contains toxic substances such as mercury, cadmium, nickel and lead. If dismantled or recycled without safeguards, these chemicals can contaminate soil, rivers and crops, eventually entering the food chain. “We must strengthen enforcement to protect public health and biodiversity,” the ministry said.

Authorities also raised concerns about investment projects seeking permission to import waste from overseas for recycling. Officials warned that such schemes could have “significant adverse impacts” and should not be supported.

The warning follows a separate advisory on 31 July cautioning against burning e‑waste, particularly batteries. The ministry explained that burning releases toxic fumes and fine particles that can damage lungs, kidneys and the nervous system, while increasing cancer risks.

Children, pregnant women and informal recycling workers are considered most vulnerable.

Heavy metals released by burning do not break down naturally, the ministry noted. Instead, they accumulate in soil and water, threatening biodiversity and long‑term environmental health.

To reduce risks, the public has been advised to store used batteries separately from household rubbish and send them to licensed recycling facilities or approved hazardous waste sites. Officials insist that only proper disposal can prevent contamination and safeguard communities.

The renewed push highlights Cambodia’s struggle to manage rising volumes of electronic waste as consumer demand for gadgets grows. Stricter enforcement of the import ban, the ministry argues, is essential to stop hazardous foreign shipments and protect both people and the environment.

-2026-08-03