Cambodia Approves Draft National Statistical Policy 2026-2035 to Strengthen Data Foundation

The Cambodian government has approved the draft "Official Statistical Policy 2026-2035," designed to strengthen the national statistical system and ensure it effectively meets the country's development needs. Prepared by the National Institute of Statistics under the Ministry of Planning, this policy serves as a strategic framework for building a robust and modern national statistical system. Rooted in legal foundations and reform directions, the policy aims to establish an integrated, high-quality, efficient, consistent, and sustainable national statistical system. Key priorities include enhancing statistical standards and quality, modernizing digital systems, developing human resources, and reinforcing inter-agency coordination mechanisms in line with national and international standards. The successful implementation of this policy hinges on the active participation and shared responsibility of all stakeholders, including central ministries, sub-national administrations, the private sector, and development partners. This collaborative effort will ensure that official statistical data is produced, shared, and utilized effectively. Under the 2015 Law on Statistics, national and sub-national statistical units are mandated to collect, compile, analyze, and disseminate statistical data through censuses, surveys, and administrative records. The National Institute of Statistics plays a pivotal role in leading, coordinating, and setting standards, classifications, definitions, and statistical concepts to ensure data consistency and prevent duplication. Cambodia has achieved significant milestones in statistical development, including conducting population, economic, and agricultural censuses, ongoing surveys, and implementing the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics. These advancements have fortified the foundation of the national statistical system and enhanced institutional capacity for producing and disseminating official statistics. Furthermore, the progress in digital technology and the use of electronic information systems have improved the timeliness, transparency, and accessibility of data. High-quality statistical data is crucial for evidence-based decision-making and for monitoring and evaluating national development policies and programs. Source: CEN Cambodia