Cambodia has implemented strict controls on waste and scrap polymers and other hazardous materials, requiring export licenses and transit permits for movement, with importation now prohibited for certain categories.
Cambodia Bans Plastic Waste Imports and Requires Export Licenses
Importers face new restrictions while exporters must obtain permits for metal waste.
What changed
Import ban on waste and scrap polymers of styrene and vinyl chloride.
Export license required for hard zinc spelter, lead waste, and tin waste and scrap.
Transit permit mandatory for authorized movement across international borders.
Extended controls now cover clinical waste and lead-acid accumulator waste.
Who it affects
Plastic waste importers cannot bring in styrene or vinyl chloride polymer scrap.
Metal waste exporters must obtain Ministry of Environment licenses for zinc, lead, and tin waste.
Transit operators need permits to move regulated hazardous materials through Cambodia.
Key dates
Cambodia has introduced a comprehensive regulatory framework that prohibits importation of waste and scrap polymers of styrene, vinyl chloride, and other plastics, while simultaneously requiring export licenses and transit permits for the movement of hard zinc spelter, lead waste, and tin waste and scrap. These measures are enforced under Sub-Decree 370 dated 28 December 2023, which establishes mandatory documentation and administrative oversight for all affected goods. The policy applies to a broad range of industrial byproducts, including clinical waste and lead-acid accumulator waste, reflecting a targeted effort to manage environmental and public health risks.
Import Prohibition
Importation of waste, parings, and scrap of polymers of styrene and vinyl chloride is now strictly prohibited in Cambodia, as defined in the national legal framework.
Export Licensing Requirements
A valid export license, permit, or similar legal document from the Ministry of Environment is required for the export of hard zinc spelter, lead waste, and tin waste and scrap, ensuring compliance with national enforcement standards.
Transit Permit Mandate
A transit permit is mandatory for any authorized movement of regulated goods across international borders, reinforcing control over cross-border trade flows.