Background
On 13 March 2026, an inspection team from the General Department of Environmental Protection of the Ministry of Environment visited a mango processing factory operated by Khun Da Sambath Co., Ltd. The factory is located along the expressway between kilometre markers 73 and 74 in Trapeang Trayueng Commune, Phnom Sruoch District, Kampong Speu Province.
According to the Ministry, the factory was found to be operating without the environmental permits and approvals required for the sector. The Ministry also stated that the company had discharged untreated liquid waste outside the factory premises, causing environmental impacts and foul odours affecting nearby residents. Residents living about 700 metres behind the factory had reportedly complained about odours from the site and wastewater flowing from the factory area into a canal in front of their homes, especially during the rainy season.
Scope of Application
The Ministry’s action applies specifically to the mango processing factory operated by Khun Da Sambath Co., Ltd. in Kampong Speu Province. The case concerns environmental licensing and wastewater pollution control obligations connected to the factory’s operations and waste management practices.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The Ministry stated that the company had committed violations under Articles 161, 173, 668, and 845 of the Environment and Natural Resources Code, as well as Sub-Decree No. 42 and Sub-Decree No. 103 on water pollution control.
The Ministry announced the following measures:
1. The company must immediately stop discharging liquid waste from the site.
2. The company will be subject to an interim fine.
3. The company must compensate for environmental damage and restore the polluted environment at the affected location.
4. The company must construct a wastewater treatment pond and ensure wastewater is properly treated before discharge.
5. The company must apply for the required permits and approvals from the Ministry of Environment.
6. The company must improve environmental sanitation at the factory, including proper storage of solid waste from production and separation of waste streams.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This case indicates that agro-processing facilities may face inspection and enforcement action where operations proceed without environmental authorization or where wastewater management does not meet regulatory requirements. The Ministry’s statement highlights the need for factories to secure relevant environmental approvals, maintain appropriate wastewater treatment systems, and organize solid waste management in line with applicable rules.
The post also serves as a reference point for the Ministry’s use of the Environment and Natural Resources Code and related sub-decrees in site-level enforcement actions concerning pollution and permitting compliance.
Official Source
Ministry of Environment announcement dated 14 March 2026 regarding inspection findings and corrective measures against the Khun Da Sambath Co., Ltd. mango processing factory in Kampong Speu Province.
