On January 30, 2025, the National Standards Council (NSC) held its 30th meeting to review and approve new national standards across various sectors, aligning with ASEAN harmonized standards (AHS) and Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to become a full member of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

“The NSC has continued to approve more standards that support Cambodia’s development of economic sectors, attract investment, promote export and ensure the safety of consumers,” said H.E. HEM Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) and Chairman of the NSC.

The 30th NSC meeting approved 21 international standards as Cambodia Standards (CS) across various sectors, including:

• Three ISO standards for plastic piping systems used in water supply and underground drainage networks;
• Three standards for fish sauce, soy sauce, and rice liquors;
• Seven ISO standards on quality management and customer satisfaction;
• Five UNECE standards on retro-reflecting devices, direction indicators, and door latches; and
• Three ISO standards for e-commerce and digital transactions to ensure secure business-to-consumer dealings.

These approvals are expected to enhance Cambodia’s industrial competitiveness and regulatory framework, reinforcing its integration into regional and global markets.

During the meeting, the Council discussed and proposed potential establishment of new technical committees focused on jewelry and precious stones. It also addressed the need to strengthen Cambodia’s testing capabilities, crucial for effective standard development by optimizing laboratory resources nationwide and establishing a referral mechanism among laboratories.

Minister Vanndy emphasized the importance of accreditation for laboratories and collaboration among them, including partnerships with private laboratories, to enhance national testing capabilities.

He added that MISTI will apply for Cambodia’s full ISO membership this year, which will provide the country with greater authority, including voting rights and the ability to object to regulations that affect Cambodia’s interests.

In addition to the 21 standards approved today, the NSC approved 36 standards during its 29th meeting in December 2024. All approved standards have been published on the websites of MISTI and ISC to improve accessibility and raise awareness about the standards.