PHNOM PENH/BANGKOK – Cambodia has issued a stern ultimatum to Thailand, demanding the full reopening of all border checkpoints by Tuesday or facing an immediate ban on imports of Thai fruits and vegetables. The warning came from Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, who cited ongoing tensions following a recent armed clash between the two nations.

Thai Army says Cambodia aiming artillery at Thailand is a national security threat

Speaking ahead of a senate session in Phnom Penh on Monday, Hun Sen declared that Cambodia would retaliate by blocking Thai agricultural products at all border crossings unless Thailand resumes normal operating hours—from 6 AM to 10 PM daily—at every checkpoint. His remarks, reported by Khmer Times, escalate a dispute rooted in a May 28 skirmish near Chong Bok in Ubon Ratchathani province, where Cambodian troops allegedly encroached on Thai territory, according to Thailand’s Second Region Army.

The threat has heightened concerns over cross-border trade, which thrives on the exchange of fresh produce, particularly Thai fruits like durian, mango, and longan. Hun Sen framed the potential ban as a direct response to Thailand’s restrictions, which he claims have disrupted Cambodian workers and traders.

Cambodia threatens to ban Thai fruit and vegetables over border row#ban #conflict #borderrow #Cambodia #Thailand pic.twitter.com/S2QSwtWcOb

— International Crisis Room 360 (@ICR360) June 16, 2025

Meanwhile, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Hun Sen’s son, has instructed seven border provinces to prepare for a possible influx of Cambodian laborers returning from Thailand if tensions worsen. On the Thai side, authorities have been authorized to manage checkpoint operations, including scheduling, to mitigate economic fallout.

Thailand, Cambodia Reaffirm Peaceful Path on Border Issues

The standoff underscores lingering diplomatic strains, with both nations weighing economic measures against security grievances. Observers warn that a prolonged trade halt could hurt farmers and exporters on both sides of the border.

-Thailand News (TN)