(Phnom Penh): Sun Chanthol, First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), said Cambodia cannot rely on tariff preferences alone to drive long-term economic growth. Instead, the country must strengthen its competitiveness by reducing production costs and implementing comprehensive reforms.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday (Jul. 27), Sun Chanthol underscored that Cambodia should focus on building its own economic strength rather than depending on preferential trade benefits.

He underlined that the government is simplifying procedures, cutting logistics costs, improving workforce skills, and enhancing productivity to boost competitiveness. He added that Cambodia is also encouraging a shift from garment manufacturing to higher-value industries such as electronics and food processing.

On the occasion, Sun Chanthol also warned that tariff preferences may not last forever, making self-reliance and structural reforms essential for sustaining economic growth and achieving the country's long-term development goals.
=FRESH NEWS