Background
On March 6, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, working with provincial and local authorities from Svay Rieng province and Bavet city, discovered that JT Aluminum Industry (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., an aluminum processing factory located in Dom Bok Chheu village, Chrork Mtess commune, Bavet city, Svay Rieng province, had been operating without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report and was improperly managing both solid and liquid waste. The inadequate waste management was found to adversely affect the environment.
Scope of Application
This decision applies specifically to JT Aluminum Industry (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., located within the Hi-Tech Special Economic Zone in Bavet city, Svay Rieng province. The findings relate to the company’s operations and waste discharge practices impacting local water bodies and surrounding environments.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The Ministry of Environment ordered the immediate and temporary suspension of JT Aluminum Industry’s production activities and mandated that the company cease all liquid waste discharge without delay. The company was instructed to expedite submission of the required Environmental Impact Assessment report and to properly obtain all necessary environmental permits. Strict management of solid and liquid waste was emphasized to ensure environmental cleanliness and safeguard public health and living conditions. The company is also subject to interim penalties according to the Environment and Natural Resources Code under Articles 826, 287, and 668.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
This case highlights the stringent enforcement of environmental governance and regulatory compliance requirements by the Ministry of Environment. Investors and businesses in manufacturing, especially within special economic zones, must ensure full compliance with environmental regulations, including timely approval of Environmental Impact Assessments and proper waste management practices. Failure to comply can result in operational suspensions and legal penalties, with impacts on environmental quality and community health.
Official Source
Ministry of Environment Facebook post, March 7, 2026: https://www.facebook.com/MinistryOfEnvironmentCambodia/posts/pfbid02J6hcpbH5nyoW28YREmNVkraeaNiJBJurL4qL939khC6dMvruwdfX7KrvbdXtqkx6l
