Cambodia, Vietnam Boost Cooperation Against Cross-Border Crime

SIEM REAP, Sept 18, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia and Vietnam have agreed to intensify cooperation against smuggling, trade fraud, drug trafficking and other cross‑border crimes, officials said Thursday. The agreement was reached at the 7th Cambodia–Vietnam Bilateral Border Customs Meeting, held in Siem Reap from Sept 15–16 under a 2019 memorandum of understanding on customs cooperation and mutual assistance. The Cambodian delegation was led by Nou Sytha, Director of Customs Enforcement and Prevention, and Sang Sinavith, Director of International Customs Cooperation. Vietnam’s delegation was headed by Vu Quang Toan, chief of the Anti‑Smuggling and Investigation Branch. Officials reviewed progress in joint enforcement and agreed to strengthen implementation of the 2019 MoU and other accords. Both sides pledged continued support for the “Mekong Dragon” operation, launched by Vietnam and China to combat drug and wildlife trafficking. The two customs administrations committed to faster and more accurate information exchange, with updated contact points to improve coordination. They also agreed to focus on smuggling of goods in transit from third countries, applying measures consistent with national laws and international agreements. Public awareness campaigns targeting border communities and traders will be expanded, highlighting the economic, social and security consequences of smuggling and trade fraud. The cooperation comes as both countries seek to facilitate legitimate trade while tightening controls against illicit activity. ASEAN customs authorities have likewise placed greater emphasis on coordinated procedures and digital systems to strengthen supply‑chain security.