Senate President Proposes Suspension of Thai Film Broadcasts and Import of Thai Goods

Senate President Proposes Suspension of Thai Film Broadcasts and Import of Thai Goods

AKP Phnom Penh, June 12, 2025 — Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Hun Sen, President of the Senate, has called on the Royal Government of Cambodia to consider suspending the broadcast of Thai films and stopping the import of Thai goods.

The proposal comes amid growing tensions following threats from extremist groups in Thailand to cut off electricity and internet supplies to Cambodia.

“In the past, Thai extremist groups, supported by pro-war military factions, have threatened Cambodia with power and internet cutoffs. But what power are they referring to when Cambodia doesn’t even rely on Thai electricity? And what internet, when Cambodia already has sufficient access?” he questioned via his social media platform.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen added that he has consistently urged that military tensions in one area should not spill over into others or into different sectors. However, it is now clear that the issue has already escalated—examples include unilateral border closures, reduced length of stay for visitors, and threats to cut electricity and internet access, as well as unauthorised incursions at certain border checkpoints driven by arbitrary decisions.

“Given this trend of extremism, I would like to suggest to the Royal Government that, in addition to filing a complaint with the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Cambodia should also consider suspending the broadcast of Thai films on all Cambodian television channels. The country may also consider halting the import of Thai goods altogether,” he said.

According to the Senate President, Cambodia should not fear the repatriation of Cambodian migrant workers from Thailand. This is a hardship for both countries—Thailand itself would also suffer, as Thai companies are facing labour shortages, which have already negatively impacted the Thai economy to some extent.

“All these points are for consideration, but the immediate action should be to stop broadcasting Thai films on Cambodian television,” Samdech Techo Hun Sen underlined.

By C. Nika