Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 26 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet instructed authorities to closely monitor the coal business, particularly to prevent large-scale illegal activities including forging steel.

The premier spoke on Tuesday (Nov. 26) during the closing session of the 2024 annual meeting of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, "Recently, customs officials requested permission to allow the export of natural charcoal made from acacia trees grown locally. However, I urge you to closely examine coal companies, especially to prevent the destruction of Cambodia's coal forests. I have received information from Kampong Speu province, where it was reported that coal companies have exhausted local wood supplies, even luxury wood. In such cases, these companies must have their licenses revoked and pay fines. Therefore, I call on the relevant ministries and institutions to regulate coal exporters effectively, ensuring there are no fraudulent activities."

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also underlined that the government cannot tackle these issues alone and that active participation from the public and all stakeholders is crucial. He also appealed to the people not to encroach on state land and, if they need land, to apply to the government.
=FRESH NEWS