(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet called on relevant institutions, particularly local authorities, to take coordinated measures to prevent smoking in communities, with a particular focus on electronic cigarettes and vapes. These products, increasingly popular among students, are identified as one of the leading causes of cancer.

The premier spoke on Monday (May 5) during the official launch of the National Cancer Control Plan 2025-2030 at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra.

“According to reports, many students are using these products. Therefore, we must enforce strict regulations on vape usage,” the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei also urged relevant authorities, especially local administrations, to closely monitor the situation, particularly among students, to curb smoking and vaping. He emphasised that students should not consider smoking or vaping as a symbol of being ‘cool’—true coolness, he said, lies in academic excellence. “Students should be recognised for excelling in their studies, not for smoking or vaping.”

Samdech Thipadei continued, “Not long ago, I visited a foreign country where a private company—even up to that country’s minister—approached our Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul to inquire about Cambodia’s policy on domestic production of e-cigarettes. I responded, ‘There’s no need—even if it’s for export, there’s no need.’”

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet affirmed that Cambodia has no requirement to permit the establishment of e-cigarette manufacturing businesses, noting that the country offers thousands of other investment opportunities. He concluded that if no company comes to produce cigarettes in Cambodia, it does not mean the nation is at a loss.
=FRESH NEWS