EuroCham FMCG Forum 2026 Highlights Consumer Protection and Fair Competition in Cambodia’s Evolving Market

EuroCham Cambodia successfully convened the FMCG Forum 2026: Consumer Protection & Fair Competition on January 30 at the Fairfield by Marriott Phnom Penh, bringing together government officials, industry leaders, consumer advocates, and market experts to address the most pressing issues shaping Cambodia’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. 

Organised by EuroCham’s FMCG Committee, the forum served as a timely platform for dialogue amid rapid shifts in consumer behaviour, heightened regulatory focus, and growing concerns around illicit trade and product authenticity. The strong turnout reflected broad interest from both the public and private sectors in strengthening market integrity and consumer trust. 

The forum opened with welcome remarks from Martin Brisson, EuroCham Executive Director, who underscored the importance of collaboration between government, businesses, and consumer organisations to ensure a fair, transparent, and competitive marketplace.  

“FMCG is a strategic priority for EuroCham. It is one of our most active committees, bringing together companies that operate at scale, reach millions of consumers, and are directly affected by regulatory enforcement, market disruptions, and reputational risks," said Brisson.

"Today’s discussions take place in a context of significant market disruption. Cambodia’s consumer market is evolving rapidly, shaped by regional trade developments, changing consumer behaviour, and growing concerns around product authenticity. Recent events — notably the Cambodia–Thailand border situation — have had very concrete impacts on supply chains, product availability, and consumer sentiment,” he added.

This was followed by opening remarks from H.E. Buon Sarakmony, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing consumer protection laws and strengthening regulatory compliance across the FMCG sector. 

Throughout the morning sessions, speakers explored how recent regional developments, including the Cambodia–Thailand border situation, have influenced trade flows, consumer sentiment, and brand loyalty. Market insights highlighted evolving consumer priorities, emerging market players filling supply gaps, and the need for businesses to adapt to shifting expectations around transparency, safety, and value. 

Government representatives shared updates on ongoing and planned efforts to strengthen compliance with consumer protection regulations, including initiatives related to product registration, retail practices, import procedures, and clearer consumer information. Emphasis was placed on practical tools such as improved packaging, barcode-linked information, and targeted digital engagement to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions. 

The forum featured two high-level panel discussions bringing together senior representatives from government and industry, including officials from the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, the General Department of Customs and Excise, and the Ministry of Interior. They were joined by private sector leaders from Danone Specialised Nutrition, HEINEKEN Cambodia, Unilever Cambodia, JT International, and EuroCham’s FMCG Committee, who shared practical perspectives on strengthening compliance, improving consumer information, and tackling illicit trade through fair competition. 

In the afternoon sessions, attention turned to the growing challenge of illicit trade and counterfeit products, particularly in the food and FMCG sectors. Presentations and discussions examined how recent market disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains and highlighted the need for stronger coordination between enforcement authorities, customs, and the private sector. Panellists agreed that combating illicit trade is essential not only for consumer safety, but also for protecting legitimate businesses and ensuring a level playing field. 

The forum concluded with closing remarks from Sothea Rami Sambath, Chairperson of the EuroCham FMCG Committee, who highlighted the value of open dialogue and evidence-based discussion in addressing complex market challenges. He reaffirmed EuroCham’s commitment to continuing engagement with government partners and industry stakeholders to support consumer protection, fair competition, and sustainable growth in Cambodia’s FMCG sector. 

The FMCG Forum 2026 reinforced the importance of collective action in navigating market disruption, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and building long-term consumer trust. It also marked another step in EuroCham’s ongoing efforts to serve as a bridge between the private sector and policymakers in shaping a transparent, competitive, and resilient business environment in Cambodia. 

This press release was supplied.