The plastic waste found in 83 containers at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port on Tuesday came from the US and Canada, the Ministry of Environment has said.

The huge shipment of rubbish weighs some 1,600 tonnes.

Officials are continuing their investigation to find the company or individuals responsible for bringing the containers into Cambodia, ministry spokesman Neth Pheaktra told The Post on Wednesday.

Legal action will be taken when they are found, he added.

“The plastic waste was illegally imported into Cambodia with the use of inaccurate documents saying the containers held 'recyclable products' rather than 'waste'.

“The government will continue to take the strictest action against the import of illegal goods. The government in no way allows such plastic waste into Cambodia. Cambodia is not a rubbish tip,” Pheaktra said.