Cambodia, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport has issued a strong warning to ride hailing companies operating in the country, reminding them that digital transport platforms are not allowed to directly own or operate taxis, tuk tuks, or other public transport vehicles. The warning follows growing concerns from local transportation operators who say rising competition and aggressive discount pricing are affecting their incomes and livelihoods.

The issue gained attention after authorities observed some ride hailing companies deploying company owned vehicles, including electric tuk tuks and EVs, while offering low promotional fares to attract customers. Cambodian officials say digital transportation companies are permitted to operate booking applications and cooperate with local drivers, but direct vehicle operations violate existing transport regulations. More updates from Cambodia’s transport sector can be found through the official Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

Government Steps In After Drivers Raise Concerns

Transport Minister Peng Ponea recently convened an urgent meeting with representatives of ride hailing companies in Phnom Penh following complaints from informal transport operators. Local drivers expressed concern that some companies were using their own fleets to dominate the market while offering fares similar to or lower than traditional tuk tuk and taxi services.

The expansion of electric vehicles in ride hailing services has also increased pressure on independent drivers, many of whom are struggling with rising fuel costs and daily living expenses. Some drivers fear that unfair competition from company operated fleets could make it even harder for them to maintain stable earnings.

During the meeting, Ponea instructed all digital transportation service providers to strictly follow the ministry’s guidelines and regulations. Companies were also asked to submit operational data and reports to support government monitoring and evaluation efforts.

MPWT Clarifies Rules for Ride Hailing Companies

Later, Chhuon Vorn, Director General of the General Department of Land Transport, clarified that ride hailing companies investing in Cambodia are only permitted to provide digital applications and transport related services.

“However, they are not permitted to own and directly operate fleets of taxis, tuk-tuks or other public transport vehicles,” he said, stressing that ride hailing firms must instead recruit and cooperate with Cambodian drivers so that the economic benefits generated from the sector can be shared with local citizens.

Authorities said some companies have failed to comply with the ministry’s regulations. Officials specifically pointed to WOWNOW after the company reportedly shared social media posts promoting company owned vehicles operating under its platform.

“According to the MPWT’s regulations, companies are not allowed to have their own vehicles. Specifically, WOWNOW, which posted on social media that they have their own company vehicles,” the Transport Director General added.

Ride Hailing Apps Continue Expanding Across Cambodia

In recent years, ride hailing applications have grown rapidly in Cambodia, especially in Phnom Penh and other major cities. Many consumers prefer digital transportation platforms because they offer convenience, transparent pricing, and regular promotional discounts.

At the same time, the rapid expansion of app based transport services has created new challenges for traditional drivers and small independent operators. Some local tuk tuk and taxi drivers say intense price competition has reduced their daily earnings, making it difficult to keep up with increasing operational costs.

Government officials say the latest measures are intended to maintain fair competition within Cambodia’s transportation sector while ensuring that local drivers continue benefiting from the country’s growing digital economy.

Balancing Innovation and Local Livelihoods

The rise of ride hailing platforms has transformed urban transportation across Cambodia, bringing new convenience for passengers and modern technology into the sector. However, officials believe regulations are necessary to prevent market imbalance and protect local workers from unfair competition.

By reinforcing existing transport rules, the government hopes to create a fair business environment where technology companies can continue operating while still supporting Cambodian drivers and local communities.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s latest warning to ride hailing companies reflects growing concerns over competition, market fairness, and the future of local transportation workers. While digital transport platforms continue gaining popularity among consumers, authorities are making it clear that companies must operate within existing regulations and work alongside Cambodian drivers rather than replacing them with company owned fleets. The move highlights Cambodia’s effort to balance technological innovation with economic opportunities for local citizens.

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s government is moving quickly to expand the country’s electric vehicle infrastructure as demand for cleaner transportation continues to rise. Backed by an initial investment of US$10 million, the nationwide plan aims to strengthen EV charging access, improve electricity reliability, and prepare Cambodia for the future of electric transportation, including commercial trucks and logistics fleets. Officials say the initiative reflects the Kingdom’s growing commitment to sustainable transport and long term energy security.

The latest announcement was made by Minister of Mines and Energy H.E. Keo Rottanak, who confirmed that state owned utility Electricité du Cambodge has been assigned to lead the development of the charging network across the country. The government has already approved more than 170 charging station permits as authorities work to meet rising EV demand from both consumers and businesses.

Additional information can be found through the official Ministry of Mines and Energy Cambodia.

Government Pushes Nationwide Charging Expansion

Cambodia’s EV infrastructure rollout is designed to support not only private electric cars but also commercial transport vehicles that are expected to play a major role in the country’s future economy. Officials said the expansion plan includes charging access for delivery vans, refrigerated trucks, and eventually electric powered container trucks operating along major logistics corridors.

According to H.E. Keo Rottanak, improving electricity supply along national highways is one of the government’s first priorities. Stable and reliable power systems are considered essential for encouraging greater private sector investment in EV charging stations and ensuring smooth long distance travel for electric vehicles across Cambodia.

“We have already approved more than 170 charging stations, and every week I sign permissions for private sector operators to open more,” he said.

High Voltage Charging Stations Planned

The Ministry of Mines and Energy has also instructed Electricité du Cambodge to prepare financing plans for high voltage fast charging stations along key transport routes linking Phnom Penh with major economic zones, including Preah Sihanouk province and Bavet city.

Officials explained that heavy duty electric trucks will require ultra fast charging systems with significantly higher power capacity than standard charging stations. Slow and medium speed chargers may not be practical for large logistics vehicles operating under tight delivery schedules.

“Technically, it can be done, but the cost is still significant. Waiting for the private sector to invest in fast charging stations for trucks may be a tall order, so I am ready to step in, and this is one instance where I see a strong role for government led initiatives on EVs,” H.E. Keo Rottanak said.

The government believes direct state support is necessary during the early stages of infrastructure development to help build confidence among investors and accelerate adoption across the transport industry.

EV Adoption Continues to Rise in Cambodia

Electric vehicle registrations in Cambodia have grown rapidly over the past year as consumers become more aware of environmental concerns and fuel savings. Data from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport showed that by early 2026, more than 16,000 EVs had already been registered nationwide, including over 11,000 electric cars.

Chinese automakers have emerged as major players in Cambodia’s growing EV market, with brands such as BYD and GAC gaining strong traction among local consumers. Toyota and Tesla also remain popular choices as more drivers shift toward electric mobility.

In March 2026 alone, Cambodia recorded 1,676 new EV registrations, including more than 1,200 electric cars. Officials say the momentum reflects stronger public confidence in EV technology and improving infrastructure support.

Cambodia Eyes Long Term Sustainable Transport Goals

The EV infrastructure expansion is part of Cambodia’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions, improve urban air quality, and strengthen national energy security. Government officials have set a target of reaching 30,000 electric vehicles nationwide by 2030 as part of the country’s sustainable development plans.

Authorities believe the growing network of charging stations will help ease concerns about charging accessibility while encouraging businesses and consumers to adopt cleaner transportation options. The investment is also expected to create new opportunities for private sector participation in renewable energy and green transport services.

As Cambodia modernizes its transport sector, officials say public and private cooperation will be critical in building an efficient and reliable EV ecosystem that can support long term economic growth.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s decision to invest millions of dollars into EV charging infrastructure signals a major step toward a cleaner and more sustainable transport future. With more charging stations being approved every week and plans underway for high voltage charging along key highways, the Kingdom is positioning itself as an emerging player in Southeast Asia’s growing electric vehicle market. If the momentum continues, Cambodia could significantly transform its transportation landscape while improving energy security and environmental sustainability in the years ahead.