Background
The Ministry of Justice coordinates preparation of amendments to Cambodia’s Criminal Code through a technical working group that drafts and reviews proposed legislative text for ministerial consideration. Chapter 6 of the Criminal Code sets out penalties and sentencing provisions; amendments to that chapter affect rules on imprisonment, accessory penalties, and the special treatment of juvenile offenders.
On 4 September 2026 the working group held its 47th session under the vice-chairmanship of Pou Sampheak to review and edit draft language. The session continued review and revision of draft provisions addressing sentencing modalities, procedural handling of sentences, and offences that carry direct corporate or fiduciary liability.
Scope of Application
The review focused on proposed amendments to Chapter 6 (penalties and sentencing) of the Criminal Code. Discussion items included provisions applying to juvenile offenders, rules governing imprisonment and accessory penalties, procedural disposition and enforcement of sentences, criminal liability of legal persons, and specific property-related offences such as theft and breach of trust.
Key Provisions or Decisions
Participants examined draft text refining how penalties are defined and applied to juveniles, including provisions on primary imprisonment terms and additional or accessory penalties that may accompany imprisonment. The group also reviewed proposed language on recognition of mitigating statuses or conditions that affect sentencing, the procedural framework for imposing and executing sentences, and formulations of legal-person liability for corporate offences. Theft and breach-of-trust offences were considered alongside the sentencing rules that would apply to those crimes.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
Proposed adjustments to legal-person liability may change the criminal exposure of businesses and their directors by clarifying circumstances under which an entity can be held responsible for offences. Changes to theft and breach-of-trust provisions could affect compliance programs that focus on asset safeguarding and fiduciary duties. Companies operating in Cambodia should monitor final text of the Criminal Code amendments to assess legal risks and update internal compliance controls as necessary.
Official Source
Ministry of Justice Facebook post, 4 September 2026: source.
