To enhance the effective implementation of environmental impact assessment (“EIA”) procedure for development projects in Cambodia, the Ministry of Environment (“MOE”) issued Prakas No. 3591 on Development Project Classification for Environmental Impact Assessment in Cambodia, dated 9 May 2025 (“Prakas 3591”). This new regulation establishes a clearer categorization and framework for determining the appropriate EIA standard for each type of developmental projects in Cambodia, reinforcing transparency and promoting environmentally sustainable governance.

Key Highlights of Prakas 3591:

Scope of Application

Prakas 3591 applies to all types of proposed, existing and ongoing development projects regardless of whether they are managed by private individual, private entities, government entities, state owned companies, or state joint venture companies. It takes effect from 6 June 2025.

Prakas 3591 repeals the previous Prakas No. 021 on the Classification of Environmental Impact Assessment for Development Project enacted in 2020 and expand the classification scope from 197 projects to 238 project types, providing greater clarity and detail for project developers.

Project Categories Expanded and Extended Timeframe of EIA Reports Review

The updated classification includes a broader range of sectors, with particular emphasis on mineral extraction, electricity-related projects, automobile tires manufacturing, clothing and garments manufacturing.

Prakas 3591 also expands the MOE’s review periods for the three types of EIA reports:

• For EPA: up to 30 business days from the date of submission of a complete dossier to the MOE;
• For initial EIA (IEIA): up to 60 business days; and
• For full EIA (FEIA): up to 90 business days.

Despite the above timelines, in practice, the MOE may take longer to review and approve a EIA report, depending on their workload and availability.

On related topics on the applicable guidelines for the preparation of IEIA, please visit our website at: Procedures and Implementation Guidelines for Checklist in Preparing the Initial Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report and on the EIA consultant companies at Cambodia: Accreditation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Consultant Companies in Cambodia – DFDL.

For more details on the EIA requirements in a specific industry sector, please contact our experts below.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be obtained from qualified legal counsel for all specific situations.

Seka Hep, Partner