Background
On 26 May 2026, the Ministry of Environment convened an inter-ministerial review session to examine the full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) submitted for an oil refining facility proposed along National Road 4 in Kandal province. Under Cambodia’s environmental regulatory framework, the Ministry of Environment conducts technical reviews of Environmental Impact Assessments for major industrial projects.
An Environmental Impact Assessment for an industrial facility should document anticipated effects on physical resources, biodiversity, and socio-economic conditions and propose mitigation and monitoring measures. The session was led by Secretary of State Tea Chup and gathered representatives from multiple ministries and the Department of Environmental Impact Assessment, who provided technical input intended to strengthen the EIA prepared by Safeguard Management and Construction Co., Ltd. for COSMIC OIL CAMBODIA CO., LTD.
Scope of Application
The review covered the full EIA prepared for a proposed oil refinery on a site reported as 4.1996 hectares located in Tuek Chea village, Puk commune, Ang Snoul district, Kandal province along National Road 4. Participants included 22 technical officers from the Department of Environmental Impact Assessment and representatives from related ministries and institutions invited to contribute sector-specific comments.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The inter-ministerial review provided additional technical comments aimed at improving the completeness and rigor of the EIA document. Attendees emphasized the need for the project proponent to demonstrate concrete mitigation measures to address potential impacts on physical resources, biodiversity, and local socio-economic conditions.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
Project proponents preparing EIAs in Cambodia can expect multi-agency technical review as part of the environmental assessment process for major industrial facilities. Developers are required to engage with technical comments from line agencies and to document proposed mitigation and monitoring measures in the EIA submission to facilitate subsequent regulatory consideration.
Official Source
Ministry of Environment — Facebook post dated 26 May 2026: source.
