Cambodia Diversifies Fuel Imports Amid Global Supply Pressures, Reuters

SINGAPORE, March 18, 2026 – Cambodia is increasing fuel imports from Singapore and Malaysia to mitigate shortfalls from Vietnam and China, amid tightening global fuel supply, Reuters reports.

Energy Minister Keo Rottanak noted that while about one-third of the country’s 6,300 petrol stations temporarily closed last week due to uncertainty over prices, the situation has since stabilized, with only 5.77% of stations currently closed.

Vietnam and China have restricted fuel exports until at least the end of March, and Cambodia and Thailand previously suspended trade following an armed conflict in July. Data from the International Trade Centre indicates that Thailand and Vietnam accounted for over 60% of Cambodia’s petroleum imports in 2024, while Singapore and Malaysia supplied nearly a third, and China around 7%.

Minister Rottanak highlighted that Cambodia’s partnerships with global suppliers, including TotalEnergies and Chevron, have helped mitigate supply risks. Current fuel stockpiles remain comparable to historical levels, despite the country typically maintaining less than one month’s supply of key fuels, such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, and LPG.

According to Reuters, gasoline and diesel exports from Singapore and Malaysia to Cambodia in the first 18 days of March were 25% higher than the same period last year, though 40% lower than in the final 18 days of February.

The government has also conducted preliminary discussions with Australia’s Woodside Energy to secure liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies for a planned 900‑megawatt power plant expected to begin operations next year, strengthening long-term energy security.

Source:

Reuters — Cambodia turns to Singapore, Malaysia for fuel as Vietnam, China restrict supplies-18 March 2026

https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/cambodia-turns-singapore-malaysia-fuel-vietnam-china-restrict-supplies-2026-03-18/

Reported by The Khmer Today