Overview:
On August 27, 2024, the Royal Government of Cambodia issued Sub-Decree No. 194 ANKr.BK, establishing the National Committee on Trade Remedy. This sub-decree aims to effectively enforce and promote the implementation of the Law on Trade Remedy, which is a critical framework for regulating and resolving trade disputes within Cambodia and with other countries.
Key Provisions:
- Committee Composition:
– The National Committee on Trade Remedy is chaired by the Minister of Commerce, ensuring that the country’s trade policies align with governmental objectives.
– The permanent vice-chair is a Secretary of State from the Ministry of Commerce, who plays a pivotal role in the ongoing operations of the committee.
– Additional vice-chairs include a Secretary of State from the Office of the Council of Ministers and one from the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
– The committee comprises representatives from various ministries and governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Justice, Council for the Development of Cambodia, Customs and Excise, General Department of Taxation, and the General Directorate of Internal Trade. These members collectively bring diverse expertise to the committee’s functions.
- Roles and Responsibilities:
– Implementation and Compliance: The committee is tasked with implementing procedures that adhere to the Law on Trade Remedy and other relevant international agreements. This ensures that Cambodia’s trade practices are consistent with global standards.
– Confidentiality and Legal Documentation: The committee establishes confidentiality protocols for complaints submitted to it and prepares official documentation for submission to competent courts. This process safeguards sensitive information while ensuring that legal processes are properly followed.
– Legal Opinions and Amendments: The committee is responsible for reviewing and providing legal opinions related to the Law on Trade Remedy’s implementation. It also proposes amendments to existing regulations to ensure they remain relevant and effective.
– International Cooperation: The committee collaborates with other countries on trade remedy issues, facilitating international trade relations and dispute resolution.
– Advisory and Technical Support: The committee can invite development partners, technical advisors, or local and international experts to assist in fulfilling its roles. This external support enhances the committee’s ability to address complex trade issues.
– Sub-Committees and Working Groups: To efficiently carry out its responsibilities, the committee has the authority to establish sub-committees or specific working groups focused on particular tasks.
- Governance:
– The committee is required to convene at least two meetings per year, with additional extraordinary meetings scheduled as necessary. This regular convening ensures ongoing oversight and responsiveness to emerging trade issues.
– The meetings are chaired by the permanent vice-chair, with mandatory attendance from all committee members.
– The Information and Legal Notification Department of the Ministry of Commerce serves as the secretariat to the committee, providing administrative and logistical support.
- Budget and Funding: The committee’s operations are funded by the national budget, supplemented by revenues from penalties and other services. This financial structure ensures the committee has the resources needed to fulfill its mandate.
Conclusion:
The formation of the National Committee on Trade Remedy marks a significant step in Cambodia’s efforts to regulate international trade disputes and align its trade practices with international standards. By establishing a structured and well-resourced committee, the Cambodian government has laid the groundwork for effective enforcement of trade remedies, which will ultimately contribute to a fairer and more competitive trading environment.
Authors: Vicheka Lay and Makara Um