A major step toward addressing alcohol-related harm in Cambodia is underway with the development of a comprehensive Alcohol Policy White Paper, set for publication on March 24, 2025. 

On March 6, representatives from the Ministry of Commerce's Consumer Protection, Competition and Fraud Repression Directorate-General (CCF) held a workshop with several key players to discuss Cambodia's public health and alcohol consumption.

In attendance were representatives of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of Cambodia, the Wine Spirits Beer Importer and Distributor Association, the Asian Vision Institute and the Southeast Asia Public Policy Institute.

The new document aims to provide a strategic roadmap for strengthening the country’s alcohol regulatory framework, promoting responsible consumption, and tackling harmful drinking behaviours.

The policy framework is being shaped by insights from a recent high-level dialogue workshop, which brought together policymakers, public health experts and industry representatives to discuss solutions tailored to Cambodia’s unique social and economic context. 

The event highlighted the urgent need for clear regulations and enforcement mechanisms to curb alcohol-related harm while balancing economic interests.

Ed Ratcliffe, executive director of the Southeast Asia Public Policy Institute, emphasised that the dialogue focused on two key themes: supporting moderation and addressing harmful consumption. 

He noted that global best practices were examined, but with a localised approach that considers Cambodia’s institutional capacities, cultural norms and stakeholder engagement.

“We are looking to support the development of policy areas by drawing on lessons from around the world. This is not just a Cambodia problem, it is a global challenge that countries must address in different ways,” he said. 

“A whole-of-society approach is needed — beyond government regulation, this includes the role of the alcohol industry, hospitality sector, tourism, retailers and the health community,” he explained.

Key challenges identified include a lack of consumer awareness regarding alcohol content and healthy consumption, high rates of underage drinking and alcohol-related road safety risks. 

The forthcoming White Paper will explore these issues and propose policy recommendations based on international best practices and localised research.

Alcohol consumption trends

Cambodia has undergone a dramatic transformation in its alcohol consumption patterns over the past two decades. 

Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra, chair of the Alcohol Control Working Group (ACWG) said that, Cambodia’s demand for beer was approximately 1.1 billion litres, with 98 per cent supplied by domestic production. 

According to statistics from the Departments of Taxation and Customs and Excise in 2023, imports account for only around 11 million litres.

Among alcoholic beverages, beer made up roughly 88 per cent of the market, primarily dominated by low-cost beers, which represents a larger market share than in most other ASEAN countries.

According to a 2022 study by Japanese food and beverage company Kirin Holding, Cambodia ranks 21st in the world for beer consumption relative to annual income, with an average of 72.2 litres consumed per person each year, equivalent to 218 cans or $136 annually.

The beer sector contributes to the national economy through tax revenue, job creation and GDP growth.

It created 3,393 jobs in 2019, increasing to 4,803 by 2023 across production, distribution and sales stages. Additionally, the sector supports tourism and sports.

The survey findings

A survey assessing alcohol consumption habits across Cambodia has revealed striking trends, highlighting the urgency of policy intervention. 

Gnim Chandara, CEO of research company MM4A, presented findings from the study, which covered all major regions – including the capital, plains, Tonle Sap region, plateau and mountain and coastal regions – and surveyed 1,363 respondents aged 18 and above.

She reported that 86 per cent of respondents admitted to having consumed alcohol, with male drinkers significantly outnumbering female drinkers. 

This highlights a strong prevalence of alcohol consumption, particularly among men.

One concerning trend was that 13 per cent of drinkers had their first alcoholic beverage before reaching the age of 18, underscoring the prevalence of underage drinking. 

“This early exposure to alcohol could pose long-term health and behavioural risks, raising alarms for policymakers and health professionals alike,” she said.

Chandara noted that the survey found that most alcohol consumption takes place at home rather than in bars or restaurants, suggesting a strong cultural link to family and social gatherings. 

This trend highlights the role of alcohol in social and familial settings, where it is often consumed during celebrations or group activities.

“Another alarming statistic from the survey revealed that 33 per cent of drinkers admitted to drinking and driving, with males more likely to engage in this risky behaviour,” she said. 

This raises significant concerns about road safety and the need for stricter regulations and awareness campaigns around drinking and driving.

Finally, the survey assessed the risk level of alcohol consumption among respondents, finding that nearly 40 per cent of drinkers fell into medium-to-high-risk categories based on a standardised alcohol use assessment. In contrast, 60 per cent of drinkers were classified as low-risk.

“These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, particularly in addressing underage drinking, drink driving and consumer awareness,” Chandara noted. 

“The data will serve as a foundation for shaping the forthcoming white paper,” she added.

Economic and regulatory challenges

Chheng Kimlong, director of the Asian Vision Institute, underscored the rapid growth of Cambodia’s alcohol market, which is projected to double in size by 2032 to reach $2.2 billion. 

He noted that this economic expansion presents both opportunities and regulatory challenges.

“The Cambodian government is working on responsible drinking practices, but progress on the Alcohol Product Control Law has been slow — it has been in draft form for nearly a decade,” Kimlong said. 

“There needs to be a balance between health outcomes and economic outcomes. Clear and effective regulation, along with industry collaboration, is necessary to ensure responsible consumption while supporting economic resilience,” he added.

He also highlighted the need for an effective alcohol advertising guideline that promotes fair competition among producers while preventing harmful marketing practices. 

Recent efforts, including a code of conduct signed between the information ministry and industry stakeholders, have been promising but require further enforcement and wider stakeholder participation.

Global best practices and policy recommendations

Marjana Martinic, founder and CEO of MM Science & Policy Advisors, provided insights into international best practices that could guide Cambodia’s policy development. 

She stressed the importance of clear drinking guidelines, consumer education and standardised regulations. 

“We shared best practices from other countries, acknowledging that every country has its unique cultural and social context. Still, there are common lessons to be learned,” Martinic said.

She discussed the significance of standard drink recommendations, a legal purchasing age and strict blood alcohol limits for road safety. 

While Cambodia already has some road safety regulations in place, she encouraged the government to adopt additional measures that align with international standards.

As Cambodia prepares to release its Alcohol Policy White Paper, the survey’s findings provide crucial data for shaping the nation’s approach to reducing alcohol-related harm. 

The growing alcohol market, coupled with concerning trends in underage drinking, drink driving and consumer awareness, underscores the urgent need for a well-balanced regulatory framework.