Two research institutions, the Southeast Asia Public Policy Institute (SEAPPI) and the Asian Vision Institute (AVI), are set to take a major step in addressing harmful alcohol consumption.

Their first initiative will focus on developing Cambodia’s first-ever policy white paper on responsible drinking guidelines, a move expected to provide evidence-based recommendations to the government.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two organisations, signed on February 10, was described as a marking a broader commitment to collaborate on policy dialogues in key areas such as public health, sustainability, energy and technology.

However, the immediate focus is on tackling alcohol misuse, which remains a growing public health challenge in the Kingdom.

Ed Ratcliffe, executive director of SEAPPI, welcomed the opportunity to partner with the AVI, one of the most respected and insightful think tanks in the region.

“The project will bring together a coalition of experts to get to the root cause of the issue of harmful alcohol consumption in Cambodia,” he said.

“Our ambition is that we will fill crucial knowledge gaps and provide Cambodian policymakers with clear, actionable recommendations to enhance public health and safety, foster a culture of moderation and responsibility, and serve as a benchmark of excellence for the wider region,” he added.

The new policy paper will feature a comprehensive review of existing data on alcohol consumption trends, including a new national survey conducted by Dr. Chandara Gnim, CEO of MM4A, in partnership with the National Institute of Social Affairs. 

The survey will provide fresh insights into the social and cultural attitudes toward drinking in Cambodia.

The initiative will also analyse best practices from other countries, examining successful policy interventions to minimise alcohol-related harm. 

Among the recommendations being considered are the introduction of national drinking guidelines and educational programmes promoting responsible consumption. 

Such guidelines, which provide clear recommendations on alcohol intake and health risks, are already in place in 89 countries worldwide.

Dr. Chheng Kimlong, president of AVI, highlighted the importance of research-driven policy recommendations in tackling alcohol-related harm.

“Our first collaboration is a bold step forward in providing the Government with research-backed analysis and recommendations aimed at addressing harmful use of alcohol in Cambodia and improving overall public health,” he explained.

He noted that understanding and addressing the social and economic implications of alcohol consumption is critical to fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for Cambodia.

Kimlong explained as a policy research institution, AVI strives to promote sustainable, inclusive and resilient development and a healthy and prosperous global society.

“Our findings will serve as a catalyst for informed decision-making, ensuring that regulations and guidelines reflect Cambodia’s unique needs while aligning with global standards,” he said.

The initiative coincides with increasing efforts by Cambodia’s alcohol industry to implement self-regulation measures.

The introduction of a Responsible Marketing Code aims to govern alcohol advertising, while legislation is in progress to enforce a Legal Purchase Age (LPA) to restrict underage access to alcohol.

The research findings and policy recommendations will be presented at a policy roundtable discussion on March 6. The event will bring together representatives from the government, private sector and public health experts.

Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra, who chairs the Alcohol Control Working Group (ACWG), has previously outlined how beer dominates the Kingdom’s alcoholic beverage market. At roughly 88 per cent of the market, this is a higher share than most ASEAN nations, he noted.

He noted that in 2023, Cambodia’s demand for beer equalled approximately 1.1 billion litres, with 98 per cent supplied by domestic production. Imports accounted for only around 11 million litres.

The number of fatal traffic accidents in Cambodia decreased by 5% in 2024, with 1,509 deaths recorded.

Despite this, road safety experts stressed the need for stricter enforcement and public education to further reduce fatalities.

Driving under the influence accounted for just 105 accidents, or 3.7 per cent of total cases, claimed Phorn Rim, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. He suggested that this highlighted the ongoing risks of alcohol consumption on the roads.

According to the ministry, excessive speed remained the leading cause of crashes, responsible for 40.6 per cent of incidents.