(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet ordered stricter monitoring of processed meat imports and the use of chemicals in food, aiming to reduce cancer rates across Cambodia.

This directive comes in response to reports indicating that Cambodia records approximately 20,000 new cancer cases annually, with around 14,000 cancer-related deaths, equivalent to one death every 40 minutes, or 38 deaths per day.

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.

Minister of Health Chheang Ra highlighted the growing public health challenge cancer poses in Cambodia, stating that the country’s capacity to combat the disease remains limited nationwide.

The minister underlined that these alarming figures underscore the urgency of implementing stronger preventive measures.

Prime Minister Hun Manet underscored, “Minister Chheang Ra cited several key causes of cancer including firstly, food such as vegetables, meat, and other processed products; secondly, expired or contaminated items or those containing high levels of chemicals; and thirdly, lack of physical activity. Even with a proper diet, without exercise, health risks remain.”

Samdech Thipadei continued, “But most importantly, prevention must be a collective effort. Relevant ministries and institutions including the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the General Department of Customs and Excise, and other authorities, must tighten inspections on processed meat imports and chemical use in food to help reduce cancer rates.”

Prime Minister Hun Manet also urged the Ministry of Education to raise awareness in schools about cancer prevention through healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices, and called for expanded access to preventive treatments and vaccinations.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei also highlighted the importance of discouraging tobacco use, especially vaping, which is recognised as a major cause of cancer.

Additionally, Prime Minister Hun Manet encouraged the public to engage in regular exercise and sports activities to promote better health. He instructed local authorities to develop more public parks to provide accessible spaces for physical activity.
=FRESH NEWS