Background
On 14 March 2026, the Ministry of Environment reported that a mango processing factory operated by Khun Da Sambath Co., Ltd. in Kampong Speu province had been cited for releasing untreated wastewater and operating without proper environmental permits.
The facility is located along the Phnom Penh–Sihanoukville Expressway between kilometer markers 73 and 74 in Treng Trayueng commune, Phnom Sruoch district. According to the ministry, wastewater was discharged outside the factory premises, causing environmental pollution and foul odors affecting nearby communities.
Residents living about 700 meters from the site reported persistent odors from the facility and wastewater flowing into a nearby canal, particularly during the rainy season.
Scope of Application
The reported action concerns the operations of Khun Da Sambath Co., Ltd.’s mango processing factory in Kampong Speu province.
The ministry stated that the inspection and citation relate to compliance with Cambodia’s Environment and Natural Resources Code and regulations governing water pollution control, as well as the requirement to hold proper environmental permits.
Key Provisions or Decisions
An inspection by the Ministry of Environment’s General Directorate of Environmental Protection on 13 March found that the company was in violation of several provisions of the Environment and Natural Resources Code and rules related to water pollution control.
The ministry stated that the factory was found to have:
- Released untreated wastewater;
- Discharged liquid waste outside its premises;
- Operated without proper environmental permits.
The ministry also stated that appropriate enforcement actions were being taken in accordance with environmental laws.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The case indicates that agro-processing and industrial facilities may face official scrutiny for wastewater management and permit compliance. It also shows that environmental inspections may be based on both on-site findings and community complaints relating to odor and wastewater discharge.
For businesses, the report serves as a reference point on the importance of holding required environmental permits and complying with water pollution control requirements. The ministry did not specify the enforcement measures in this report.
Official Source
Ministry of Environment announcement dated 14 March 2026, citing findings from an inspection by the General Directorate of Environmental Protection conducted on 13 March 2026.
