Cambodia boosts fuel imports from Singapore and Malaysia after Vietnam and China restrict exports, with talks underway for Australian LNG to enhance energy security.
SINGAPORE: Cambodia is increasing fuel imports from Singapore and Malaysia to counter supply restrictions from Vietnam and China. Energy Minister Keo Rottanak confirmed the shift, attributing it to export curbs imposed by its northern neighbours to ensure domestic availability.
The move follows a period of disruption where about a third of Cambodia’s 6,300 petrol stations closed last week. Rottanak stated that only 5.77% of stations remain closed currently, with national fuel stockpiles near historical averages.
Vietnam and China have restricted fuel exports until at least the end of March. This poses a significant challenge as the two nations, alongside Thailand, accounted for over 60% of Cambodia’s petroleum imports in 2024.
“We’re still able to import a little bit from China,” Rottanak said. He added that partnerships with global suppliers like Total and Chevron are helping to mitigate supply risks.
Data from Kpler shows gasoline and diesel exports from Singapore and Malaysia to Cambodia in early March were 25% higher than the same period last year. Cambodia, which lacks an oil refinery, typically holds less than a month’s supply of key fuels under normal conditions.
The minister also revealed preliminary talks with Australia’s Woodside Energy to secure liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies. The fuel is intended for a new 900-megawatt power plant scheduled to start generation next year.
Woodside declined to comment on the discussions. Rottanak suggested Australian LNG would help hedge against geopolitical risks affecting Middle Eastern supplies.
He credited a rapid renewable energy buildout with cushioning the impact of global oil market shocks. Fuel import levels have remained largely stable since 2022 due to renewables-led electrification.
“Because of renewable energy, we are in a way less susceptible to 100% shock from the oil in the Middle East,” Rottanak stated. He argued the current situation underscores the urgent need for an integrated ASEAN power grid to enhance regional energy resilience.
