The inaugural round of negotiations for the Cambodia-U.S. Agreement on Reciprocal Trade has successfully concluded, marking a significant step toward enhancing bilateral trade and investment between the two nations. The talks took place from May 13-15 in Washington, D.C., under the framework of the Ad Hoc Cambodia-U.S. Bilateral Relations Coordination Working Group, in collaboration with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
The Cambodian delegation was led by H.E. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, and H.E. Mrs. Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce. On the U.S. side, the discussions were spearheaded by Ms. Sarah Ellerman, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
According to a press release issued by the Royal Government Spokesperson Unit, the negotiations were marked by an open and constructive exchange of views, demonstrating mutual understanding between the two sides. The discussions centered on strengthening the Cambodia-U.S. trade and investment relationship, with a particular focus on the draft Agreement. Both parties engaged in detailed conversations, which were essential in laying the groundwork for future cooperation.
As a result of the fruitful first round, both sides have agreed to schedule the second round of negotiations in Washington, D.C., during the first week of June 2025. The Royal Government of Cambodia remains committed to advancing the trade and investment partnership with the United States, under the leadership of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia.
This ongoing cooperation reflects the shared commitment to achieving a mutually beneficial relationship, paving the way for continued collaboration and progress in trade and investment between Cambodia and the United States.