Arka Pratama Cambodia, a kingdom in Southeast Asia, is a nation of rich history and dynamic growth. Its capital city, Phnom Penh, is the bustling heart of the country, home to a significant portion of its approximately 17 million people. The official currency is the Riel (KHR), and the national language is Khmer. For those considering driving or importing vehicles, it is important to note that Cambodia follows a right-hand traffic system. The primary gateways for vehicle importation are the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, the country’s only deep-water port, and the Phnom Penh Autonomous Port, a key inland river port.
The Cambodian government has demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting electric mobility through favorable import policies. The total tax on imported electric vehicles is approximately 63%, a figure that is substantially lower than the tax on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which stands at around 122%. This tax structure, which includes customs duties, special taxes, and a 10% Value-Added Tax (VAT), is designed to make EVs a more financially attractive option for consumers. In addition to the reduced import taxes, the government has also lowered the annual road tax for electric vehicles. While there are no explicit age restrictions for imported vehicles, the current policies and incentives are primarily aimed at encouraging the adoption of new electric vehicles. Specific details on vehicle age restrictions are to be confirmed.
The electric vehicle market in Cambodia is still in its nascent stages but is experiencing rapid growth. In 2023, 604 new electric vehicles were registered, contributing to a total of over 10,568 registered EVs by September 2025. While the overall EV market share percentage is yet to be solidified, the upward trend in registrations is a clear indicator of growing consumer interest. The market is currently dominated by a few key players, with Chinese automaker BYD, Japanese giant Toyota, and American innovator Tesla emerging as the most popular brands. BYD, in particular, has established a strong presence with a range of models including the Seagull, ATTO 2, ATTO 3, and the premium HAN sedan. The popularity of models like the ATTO 3 suggests a growing interest in electric SUVs, although specific data on the most popular EV categories is still to be confirmed.
The development of a robust charging infrastructure is a critical component of Cambodia’s EV strategy. As of April 2025, there were approximately 154 public charging stations across the country, with a significant concentration in the capital, Phnom Penh. The government has ambitious plans to expand this network nationwide, with the goal of having at least two to three charging stations in each province in the near future. While the exact breakdown of AC and DC fast-charging stations is to be confirmed, recent developments such as the installation of 40 DC fast chargers at the new Techo International Airport indicate a focus on providing fast and convenient charging options. Several companies, including CHARGE+ and OneGo, are actively working to develop and operate the charging network, providing the necessary backbone for the growing EV fleet.
In a move to further bolster the EV ecosystem, Cambodia is actively encouraging local production and assembly of electric vehicles. The government’s “National Policy on the Development of Electric Vehicles 2024-2030” outlines a clear strategy to support local manufacturing. A landmark development in this area is the construction of a BYD assembly plant in the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone, which will produce both pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Chinese automaker GAC has also announced plans to build an assembly plant in the country. In the two- and three-wheeler segment, local company ONiON Mobility has already established an assembly plant for electric motorcycles and rickshaws. The development of a local manufacturing base for charging equipment is also anticipated, though specific manufacturers are yet to be confirmed.
The future of the electric vehicle market in Cambodia looks exceptionally promising. With strong government support, a growing charging infrastructure, and increasing consumer awareness, the country is well-positioned for a significant shift towards electric mobility. The combination of tax incentives and the entry of affordable EV models from international brands creates a fertile ground for growth. For EV importers, the Cambodian market presents a key opportunity to cater to a burgeoning demand for clean and efficient transportation. As the local industry develops and the charging network expands, Cambodia is on track to become a significant player in the regional electric vehicle landscape, offering a compelling case for investment and market entry.
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