ConocoPhillips' energy commitment viewed as strategic in wider Cambodia-US trade discussions

Published: 2025-06-26 14:10:08 ET COP

Published on 06/26/2025 at 14:10

The ongoing dedication of ConocoPhillips, a major US-based oil and gas company, to exploring Cambodia’s energy potential is being positioned as a critical element in strengthening economic ties between Cambodia and the United States, particularly amid continuing tariff discussions, according to Kiripost.

Minister of Mines and Energy Keo Rottanak recently confirmed the company’s pledge to pursue cooperation with Cambodia in developing its oil and gas sector. This announcement followed a meeting with ConocoPhillips representatives, which was shared through a post on the minister’s official Facebook page, including photographs from the engagement.

Although Kiripost sought further clarification on the nature and scope of the proposed projects, no response had been received from Minister Rottanak at the time of publication.

Socio-economic commentator Chey Tech remarked that the collaboration with ConocoPhillips could bring dual advantages to Cambodia, most notably since the country recently halted fuel imports from Thailand. One key benefit, he explained, lies in diversifying Cambodia’s energy imports, particularly through Singapore, which hosts American-affiliated supply routes.

Furthermore, Tech stressed the importance of deepening Cambodia–US economic relations. “This engagement serves as a signal of Cambodia’s intent to enhance bilateral trade and could be an influential factor in current tariff negotiations,” he said.

He also noted that foreign investment from global corporations such as ConocoPhillips during a period of regional friction, particularly with Thailand, underscores Cambodia’s potential as a stable market. “As Cambodia remains the buyer and not the supplier, investment from external partners is not likely to be negatively impacted,” Tech added.

Prime Minister Hun Manet previously assured the public that local fuel suppliers could secure adequate reserves from alternative markets, following the government’s move to ban fuel and gas imports from Thailand.

An official statement issued at the time noted: “Fuel importers within Cambodia can meet national demand by sourcing from other regions.”

Tech also commented that price competition in the energy market is largely influenced by global trends. Therefore Cambodia’s efforts to strengthen ties with new oil and gas providers could offer greater market resilience, even amidst tensions linked to border and trade issues.

In parallel with developments in the energy sector, progress has also been noted in formal trade discussions between Cambodia and the United States. On the evening of June 25, 2025, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) hosted a virtual conference involving senior officials from both countries.

Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice-Chairman of the CDC Sun Chanthol and Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul held talks with a delegation from the Office of the United States Trade Representative, led by Sarah Ellerman, Assistant USTR for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

According to a joint statement, both parties recognised the headway made in prior negotiation rounds and introduced new proposals for mutual review. “The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to moving forward constructively, intending to reach an agreement that delivers tangible benefits to both nations,” the statement read.

As Cambodia seeks to expand its global trade footprint and reduce reliance on any single partner, strategic partnerships with energy giants like ConocoPhillips are expected to play an increasingly central role. Observers believe that such initiatives reflect broader policy objectives that include economic diversification, improved energy security, and strengthened bilateral cooperation with key global powers such as the United States.