Former Cambodian prime minister Hun Sen has warned Thailand that its export sector could suffer following a decision by Thai authorities to restrict border crossings, while Cambodia’s Senate President has voiced opposition to calls for a boycott of Thai products.
Speaking on Saturday night, Hun Sen said Thailand would bear the brunt of the closure, noting that its exports to Cambodia significantly outweigh imports.
According to 2024 figures he cited, Thailand exported more than $5.2 billion worth of goods to Cambodia, compared to just $1.1 billion in imports.
The warning comes after the Thai military ordered early closure of several border points on Saturday, including the Aranyaprathet checkpoint in Sa Kaeo province — a key trade and travel route between the two countries.
The move was reportedly aimed at increasing pressure on Cambodia amid rising tensions.
Relations between the two nations have soured following a brief exchange of gunfire near Chong Bok in Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani province, on May 28.
Hun Sen’s comments were shared on his social media account after Cambodian businessman Duong Chhay urged citizens to boycott Thai products in response to the closures.
The former premier, however, rejected the idea of a boycott and urged Cambodians to remain calm.
“As for Cambodian citizens, in the absence of Thai products, please do not blame the Royal Government of Cambodia, as this shortage is a direct result of Thailand’s decision to close the border,” the Khmer Times quoted him as saying.
“I urge all fellow Cambodians to maintain composure, maturity, patience, and politeness — but with firmness — avoiding any action that would allow foreigners to insult our dignity,” he added.
